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Adapts to low light (more than 8 feet from a window, or a north-facing room. A grow light 10-12 inches away works great if your windows are not cutting it) better than most plants. Best growth in bright indirect light (3-6 feet from a south or west window, or right next to an east window. Under a grow light, 6-10 inches away works well) from a north or east-facing window. direct sun (right in the window where sun actually hits the leaves. A strong grow light 4-6 inches away can substitute) will bleach and scorch the leaves.Light
Water when the top third to half of the soil has dried out, roughly every 10-14 days. Very sensitive to overwatering - soggy soil causes root rot quickly. Use distilled or rainwater; tap water fluoride causes brown leaf tips.Water
Tolerates average indoor humidity. Higher humidity closer to its East African rainforest origins will produce lusher growth, but it handles typical home conditions without complaint.Humidity
Prefers 60-85°F (16-29°C). Protect from temperatures below 55°F and cold drafts. A tropical plant at heart.Temperature
easyDifficulty
Dracaena deremensis plant

Janet Craig

Dracaena deremensis

Easy

Janet Craig is the dracaena that earns its keep in the darkest corners of offices and homes — it's one of the most shade-tolerant large-leafed houseplants you can buy, with glossy, deep green strap leaves that look polished and tropical without any fuss. It grows slowly into a tidy column 4 to 6 feet tall, barely asking for attention along the way. The catch is that it contains saponins, so keep it away from cats and dogs who might decide to nibble.

Care Guide

How to grow Janet Craig

Light

Adapts to low light (more

Water

Water when the top third

Humidity

Tolerates average indoor humidity.

Temperature

60-85°F

Soil

Well-draining, general-purpose indoor potting mix.

Propagation

Stem tip cuttings or cane

Common Problems

Root rot from overwatering is the primary killer.

Did You Know

Fun Facts

Janet Craig was included in NASA's Clean Air Study for its ability to remove formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene from indoor air — making it one of the most studied houseplants for air quality.

Pet Safety

Toxic to pets

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses per ASPCA. Contains saponins. Ingestion causes vomiting (occasionally with blood), depression, loss of appetite, excessive drooling, and dilated pupils in cats. Contact ASPCA Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 if a pet ingests any part of this plant.

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