From my perspective, I crave stability and consistency. I originate from the tropical rainforests of the Americas, where the canopy of taller trees protects me from harsh, direct sunlight. Please place me in a spot with bright, indirect light. A north-facing window is perfect, or a few feet back from an east or west-facing one. Direct sun will scorch my beautiful leaves, leaving unsightly brown spots, while too little light will prevent me from producing my elegant white blooms. I also prefer a warm room, ideally between 65-80°F (18-27°C), and I dislike cold drafts or sudden temperature changes from vents or frequently opened doors.
My relationship with water is the most common area where my caregivers make mistakes. I do enjoy consistently moist soil, but I am not a aquatic plant. My roots need access to both water and air. The best method is to check my soil weekly. Insert your finger about an inch deep; if it feels dry, it's time for a long, thorough drink. Water me until it runs freely from the drainage holes in my pot, and always empty the saucer afterward. I will communicate with you: if my leaves begin to droop dramatically, I am telling you I am thirsty. A good drink will perk me right back up. Conversely, yellowing leaves often signal that my roots are drowning and need you to hold back on the water.
I am not a heavy feeder, but I appreciate support during my growing seasons (spring and summer). Feeding me a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer diluted to half-strength once a month is more than enough. Please refrain from feeding me in the fall and winter when my growth naturally slows. As for my home, I will eventually outgrow my pot. You'll know it's time to repot me when my roots become crowded, or I seem to need water constantly. When you do, choose a new pot that is only 1-2 inches larger in diameter and use a well-draining, quality potting mix.
I must be transparent about my nature. Like many of my plant relatives, I contain calcium oxalate crystals. This is a natural defense mechanism to deter herbivores in the wild. It means I am toxic if ingested by humans, cats, or dogs. It is not malicious, simply my biology. My sap can also be a mild skin irritant for some people. Therefore, it is wise to place me somewhere out of reach of curious pets and children and to wear gloves when handling me during repotting or pruning. This allows us to coexist safely and beautifully.
