Question
Hi, I have a follow up to my low light plants question. Of your list of low light plants (office fluorescent only) which of them can handle cooler or cold temperatures?

The reason I ask is sometimes over the weekend the temperature gets turned down in the office and I live in a freezing climate (Canada).  I did some quick research and saw that Cast Iron plant and certain hybrid species of Chinese Evergreen that are more tolerant to cold may work (Jewel of India, Emerald stars, stars). But was wondering your advice of which plants could work before buying anything and damaging it.

Answer
Hi Adam,

Damage due to exposure to cold depends on just how cold and the duration of the exposure. Some tender plants suffer minor foliage damage with prolonged exposure to temps below 55 degrees F. Most indoor plants are okay down to 50 degrees F., although growth will slow substantially at these low temps.

The only low light plants that I can recommend to keep in temps below 50 degrees are the Aspidistra, Kentia Palm and Rhapis Palm. Aglaonemas are notoriously sensitive to cold damage. Some of the newer Aglaonema hybrids do hold up better in cooler temperatures, but I would still keep  them above 50 degrees.

You may want to get a Min-max thermometer to see just how cold it actually gets in your office over a winter weekend.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

Visit my website at  www.HorticulturalHelp.com