From our perspective, light is not a luxury; it is our primary source of sustenance. In our native West African lowland rainforests, we grow beneath the canopy, thriving in bright, dappled light. To replicate this in your house, you must find a spot with abundant, indirect sunlight. A position directly in front of a large, east-facing window is ideal, as it provides the intense morning sun without the harsh, leaf-scorching intensity of the afternoon. A south or west-facing window can also work brilliantly, but it is crucial to diffuse the direct afternoon rays with a sheer curtain. We will tell you if the light is sufficient; our new leaves will be robust, closely spaced, and a vibrant green. Sparse, leggy growth or small, pale leaves are our silent plea for more photons.
We are creatures of habit, deeply sensitive to sudden changes in our environment. The perfect spot is one of stable temperatures, away from the chaotic drafts of both hot and cold air. Please, keep us far from heating vents, radiators, air conditioning units, and frequently opened exterior doors or drafty windows. These sources create turbulent microclimates that cause us immense stress, often resulting in a dramatic and sudden leaf drop as we struggle to conserve energy. We prefer the same temperatures you do—consistently between 65°F and 75°F (18°C - 24°C). A stable environment allows us to focus our energy on growing tall and strong for you.
While we can adapt to the humidity levels of most homes, we truly flourish in more humid air, which hearkens back to our tropical origins. The air near a sunny bathroom window is often a perfect microclimate, thanks to the steam from showers. Alternatively, grouping us with other plants creates a beneficial micro-environment through collective transpiration. If your chosen spot is in a dry living room, especially near a heat source, please consider supplementing with a small humidifier or a regular pebble tray with water beneath our pot. This prevents our leaf edges from becoming dry and crispy, a sign of atmospheric thirst.
Finally, the best spot is one where we have room to grow, both upwards and outwards. Our large, violin-shaped leaves need space to unfurl without constantly brushing against walls or furniture, which can lead to bruising and damage. Furthermore, once you find the right location, we implore you to let us stay there. We are not fans of rotation or frequent relocation. Each move forces us to expend precious energy reorienting our leaves to the light source. If you must rotate us for even growth, do so gradually, turning the pot just a quarter-turn no more than once a month. A stable home allows us to put down roots, both physically and metaphorically.
