The leaves are liner (elongated with parallel sides) or oval shaped which grow at the tip of the stalks. These leaves grow up to 30cm in length and about 5 – 8cm wide. An old mature plant will form a short trunk which can look similar to a yucca or dracaena, in the way the lower leaves come away and leave scared marks.
During summer once the plant matures in growth and age it can produce very small flowers which then turn into berries. If these do appear they grow between the leaves and are quite insignificant.
Wherever these are grown indoors they need to be provided with enough warmth. This is why many are grown in greenhouses or patios.
The level of care needed for this plant is quite moderate. The most important requirement is that they don’t reside in temperatures below 60ºF (15ºC). The good news is they can tolerate low lighting conditions, although I have seen it mentioned that it is only the all-green and not the variegated types that will tolerate low light.
Temperatures between 65-80 ºF (18-27 ºC) are ideal. Lower than 60ºF (15ºC) is not healthy for this plant and can cause dark patches on the leaves. If the leaves begin to curl and the edges turn brown the temperature is probably too low or cold drafts may be affecting the plant.
Re-pot once every two or three years during spring. They like to become slightly root bound – so don’t worry if they seem to showing some roots through the bottom of the pot.
Toxic to cats, dogs and horses.