Question
QUESTION: Hello Darlene,

I have a bright, east facing, 8-foot-wide window that begs for a plant, (preferably not a hanging plant.)  I had a schefflera plant there that was thriving until the very hottest months when I occasionally used my air conditioning.  The draft hit it slightly and it started to yellow.  I moved it and now it's fine.  Is there a plant that likes a bright window and can also withstand some draft in the summer?  I read that Jade can withstand temperatures down to 40F.  Would that plant work?  I would appreciate any suggestions that you have.

Carrie
ANSWER: Carrie,

I have had scheffleras outdoors at temps down to 45 and they did fine so I am surprised yours yellowed. You might try a small jade and see how it does before getting a large one. You might also try a plant known as a Cast Iron plant or Aspidistra. That is a very hearty plant. Just be careful not to overwater any plant when the air conditioner is on. A large cactus might also work well, beleive it or not they can take cold, it gets cold in the desert at night. Good luck.

Darlene

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for your reply, Darlene.  I went to a nursery to buy a cast iron plant, and a moderate size was $80!  I assume it's because it grows slowly.  Can you think of another less expensive plant that would meet my requirements?  (I bought a Chinese Evergreen, but looked it up online when I got home and it really doesn't like sun or drafts.  oops.)

Carrie

Answer
Carrie,

You might want to try another nursery before you give up on an aspidistra, I have seen them in Lowes for $15-20.00. You could also consider a sansevieria or a cactus, there are many really interesting large cacti available that don't mind an air conditioner. Good luck.

Darlene