From our perspective, the single most important factor is not a precise number on a thermometer, but a consistent and stable thermal environment. We originate from the tropical understory, where temperature fluctuations are minimal. Drastic shifts, especially cold drafts from windows or hot blasts from heating vents, are immensely stressful. This stress diverts our energy from growth and flowering to mere survival, leading to drooping leaves, slowed growth, and a lack of those vibrant blooms you desire. A stable temperature range allows our metabolic processes, like photosynthesis and nutrient uptake, to function at their peak efficiency.
For optimal growth and well-being, maintain an ambient air temperature between 70°F and 85°F (21°C and 29°C) during the day. This range perfectly mirrors our native habitat. Within this bracket, our cells are actively metabolizing, our roots are efficiently absorbing water and nutrients, and our leaves are expanding to capture light. This is the condition under which we will produce our most lush foliage and have the highest potential to initiate and sustain our long-lasting flower structures (the spathe and spadix).
While we thrive in daytime warmth, a slight drop in temperature at night is not just tolerated but is physiologically beneficial. An ideal night temperature ranges from 60°F to 70°F (16°C to 21°C). This dip of roughly 10 degrees Fahrenheit from the daytime high is a natural occurrence in the tropics and signals to our internal clock that it is time to rest and respire. This period of cooler rest is crucial for maintaining overall plant health and can significantly contribute to the development of flower buds. Consistently warm nights without a drop can lead to elongated, weak growth over time.
The temperature has a direct and profound correlation with our flowering capability. Consistently warm temperatures within the ideal range encourage the hormonal processes that trigger blooming. If the temperature falls consistently below 60°F (16°C), we interpret this as an unfavorable and potentially dangerous condition. Our response is to conserve energy and halt flower production entirely, focusing instead on preserving existing tissue. Furthermore, prolonged exposure to temperatures at or below 55°F (13°C) can cause direct chilling injury, manifesting as blackened, damaged leaves and flowers, and stunted root systems.
It is impossible to discuss temperature from our point of view without addressing humidity. Warm air has a greater capacity to hold water vapor. In our native environment, high temperatures are coupled with very high humidity. When you provide warm indoor temperatures but the air is dry (a common condition in heated homes), the rate of transpiration (water loss through our leaves) increases dramatically. This can lead to stress, causing leaf tips to brown and curl. Therefore, achieving the ideal temperature is most effective when paired with elevated humidity levels of 60% or higher, creating a truly supportive microclimate.
