Botanical Name: Dracaena fragrans 'Massangeana'
Common Name(s): Corn Plant, Massangeana Dracaena, Dracaena Massangeana

Dracaena fragrans 'Massangeana', commonly known as the Corn Plant, is a popular and easy-to-grow houseplant valued for its striking appearance and minimal care requirements. The plant has long, glossy, lance-shaped leaves that are a rich, deep green with creamy yellow stripes running down the center of each leaf. This variegation gives the plant a distinctive, elegant look, making it a favorite for adding vertical height and a touch of tropical flair to indoor spaces. The Corn Plant's compact size and attractive foliage also make it a great choice for home and office environments, where it can brighten corners or serve as a focal point in larger rooms.

Native to tropical Africa, Dracaena Massangeana thrives in warm, humid environments but is highly adaptable to average indoor conditions, making it a suitable choice for beginner plant owners. In the wild, it can grow into a tree-like form, reaching up to 10 feet (3 meters) tall, but indoors, it typically remains more compact, growing up to 4-6 feet (1.2–1.8 meters) in height. Its slow growth rate and easy care requirements make it a great addition to both small and larger spaces.

The Corn Plant does best in bright, indirect light, which helps maintain its beautiful variegated foliage. It can tolerate low light, but the growth may slow down, and the variegation may become less pronounced. Direct sunlight should be avoided, as it can cause the leaves to scorch, leading to brown spots and tips. Dracaena Massangeana prefers temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) and should be kept away from cold drafts or sudden temperature fluctuations.

Dracaena Massangeana thrives in well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Water the plant when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause root rot, so ensure that the plant is not left sitting in standing water. Like many other Dracaena varieties, it is more tolerant of underwatering than overwatering, making it a forgiving plant for busy owners. When watering, make sure the pot has proper drainage to avoid excess moisture at the base.

As a bonus, Dracaena Massangeana is known for its air-purifying properties. Like other members of the Dracaenafamily, it can help remove harmful indoor toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene, making it not only a visually appealing plant but also a beneficial addition to your indoor environment.

Note: Dracaena Massangeana is toxic to pets, particularly cats and dogs, if ingested. It contains saponins, which can cause vomiting, drooling, and other digestive issues in pets. Keep this plant out of reach of animals, and if ingestion occurs, seek veterinary attention immediately. Additionally, the sap of the plant can cause mild skin irritation, so it’s best to handle the plant with care when pruning or repotting.