Janet Craig

Dracaena deremensisAlso known as: Janet Craig Dracaena, Corn Plant

Janet Craig is a classic, elegant Dracaena featuring glossy, dark green, strap-like leaves that arch gracefully from a central stem. Native to tropical Africa, it grows up to 10 feet (3 m) indoors though commonly kept at 3-5 feet (0.9-1.5 m). Known for its exceptional air-purifying abilities and tolerance of low light.

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 10-14 days, when top 2 inches (5 cm) of soil are dry
Summer	Every 7-10 days
Fall	Every 14 days
Winter	Every 21 days

Allow soil to dry between waterings. Use filtered water to avoid fluoride damage.

Misting Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Weekly
Summer	1-2 times per week
Fall	Weekly
Winter	Weekly

Tolerates average humidity but appreciates occasional misting.

Fertilizing Schedule

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

Light feeder. Avoid over-fertilizing which causes salt buildup.

Pruning

Frequency: As needed

Best Season: Spring

Remove yellow or brown lower leaves. Can be cut back dramatically if too tall - will resprout.

Repotting

Frequency: Every 2-3 years

Best Season: Spring

Slow grower - doesn't need frequent repotting. Use well-draining potting mix.

Flowering

Season
Rarely indoors

Color
White fragrant flowers

May produce fragrant white flower clusters in optimal conditions, though rare indoors.

Propagation Methods

Stem cuttings in soil or water
Top cuttings with leaves
Air layering for larger canes

Common Problems

Brown leaf tips: Fluoride in water or low humidity
Yellow leaves: Overwatering or natural aging
Drooping leaves: Underwatering or root damage
Brown spots: Bacterial or fungal issues from overwatering

Pro Tips

One of the best plants for low-light offices
Top NASA air-purifying plant
Very tolerant of neglect
Use distilled or rainwater to prevent brown tips

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