Corn Plant

Dracaena fragransAlso known as: Dracaena Massangeana, Fortune Plant, Mass Cane

The Corn Plant is a popular indoor tree with long, arching leaves striped with green and yellow that resemble corn foliage. Native to tropical Africa, it's known for its air-purifying abilities and easy care. Indoors, it grows 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 m) tall and adds tropical elegance to any space.

Easy Care

Low to Medium Light

Perennial

Quick Care Summary

Light
Low to Medium Light

Temperature Range
60-80°F (16-27°C)

Ideal Temp
70°F (21°C)

Toxic to Pets

This plant is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Keep it out of reach of pets, or consider pet-safe alternatives. Symptoms of ingestion may include drooling, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing.

Seasonal Care Schedule

Adjust your care routine based on the season for optimal plant health.

Watering Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 7-10 days, when top inch (2.5 cm) of soil is dry
Summer	Every 7 days
Fall	Every 10-14 days
Winter	Every 14-21 days, reduce significantly

Sensitive to fluoride in tap water - use filtered or rainwater if possible.

Misting Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Weekly
Summer	1-2 times per week
Fall	Weekly
Winter	1-2 times per week to combat dry air

Benefits from humidity - brown leaf tips indicate dry air.

Fertilizing Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Monthly with balanced liquid fertilizer
Summer	Monthly
Fall	Every 6-8 weeks
Winter	No fertilizing

Avoid fertilizers containing superphosphate which adds fluoride.

Pruning

Frequency: As needed to control height or shape

Best Season: Spring or summer

Can cut canes at any height - new growth will emerge below the cut.

Repotting

Frequency: Every 2-3 years

Best Season: Spring

Use well-draining potting mix. Can stay in same pot for years if happy.

Flowering

Season
Rarely indoors, typically winter

Color
White or yellow, highly fragrant

Clusters of small, intensely fragrant flowers on a stalk - uncommon indoors but delightful.

Propagation Methods

Stem cuttings (cane sections)
Air layering
Top cuttings rooted in water

Common Problems

Brown leaf tips: Fluoride toxicity, low humidity, or inconsistent watering
Yellow leaves: Overwatering or natural aging of lower leaves
Soft, mushy cane: Root rot - reduce watering
Pale leaves: Too much light or needs fertilizer

Pro Tips

Use distilled or filtered water to prevent fluoride damage
Excellent air purifier - removes formaldehyde and benzene
Very forgiving of low light conditions
Rotate regularly for even growth

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