Q: I have a corn plant that I have had for years. About two years ago I had to bring it to my office because it got too tall for my home. This morning I happened to look up and saw this odd-looking thing protruding out the top. I think it’s actually blooming! Can you verify this for me?

A: That’s exactly what you have: a flower. You’ve probably already noticed that the flower is pretty fragrant. For that reason, the plant’s scientific name is Dracaena fragrans.

The flower will last for several weeks, although you can cut it off sooner if you care to. One thing to understand is that the tip of the plant around the flower stem will die in a few months. This is normal: the plant simply sprouts another stem nearby and continues growing normally.

See also:
Draecena fragrans