Corn Plant

Dracaena fragrans

houseplant

verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team

The Corn Plant is a popular tropical houseplant with long, arching green leaves that have yellow or cream-colored stripes, resembling corn husks. It grows slowly to moderately and can reach 4-6 feet indoors, making it ideal for adding vertical interest to living spaces. This plant is relatively low-maintenance and tolerates a range of indoor conditions.

Common Problems

Select the problem your Corn Plant is experiencing to get a treatment guide.

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Brown Tipschevron_right

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Yellow Leaveschevron_right

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Pale Leaveschevron_right

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Slow Growthchevron_right

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Dropping Leaveschevron_right

Care Guide

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Light

Bright, indirect light is optimal. Tolerates low light but growth slows significantly. Avoid direct sun, which can scorch leaves.

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Water

Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. Reduce watering in winter. Use distilled or filtered water if possible, as the plant is sensitive to fluoride and chlorine.

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Soil

Use well-draining potting mix, ideally a blend of peat moss, perlite, and bark. Ensure pots have drainage holes.

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Fertiliser

Feed monthly during spring and summer with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer. Reduce feeding in fall and winter.

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Temperature

Prefers warm temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Keep away from cold drafts and temperatures below 50°F (10°C).

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Humidity

Prefers moderate to high humidity (50-60%). Mist foliage occasionally or place pot on a pebble tray with water.

Toxicity

dangerousToxic to CatsdangerousToxic to Dogscheck_circleSafe for Children

Toxic to cats and dogs if ingested, causing salivation, vomiting, and dilated pupils. Not toxic to children.

Common Diseases

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Common Pests

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Seasonal Care

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Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.

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Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.

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Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.

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Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are the tips of my Corn Plant's leaves turning brown?

This is almost always caused by fluoride or chlorine sensitivity from tap water, or from low humidity. Switch to distilled or filtered water and consider misting to reduce future browning.

Can I cut back my Corn Plant if it gets too tall?

Yes — Dracaena fragrans tolerates hard pruning well. Cut the cane to your desired height and it will typically resprout new growth from just below the cut within a few weeks.