Brown leaf tips or patches

Direct sun, salt buildup, or inconsistent watering. Move out of direct sun, flush the soil occasionally, and water more evenly.

Overwatering. Let the soil dry further between waterings and check drainage.

Very slow or no growth

Normal for this plant, slower still in low light. Be patient. A bit more light and spring feeding nudge it along, but it is naturally slow.

Too much direct light. Move to lower or filtered light.

Houseplants

Famously tough, slow, and forgiving. It shrugs off low light and neglect, making it ideal for dim corners.

The free tool tailors timing to your climate and lets you save this plant.

Light

Low light

Where to put it

Low to medium indirect light, even a dim corner or north window. Keep it out of direct sun, which scorches the broad leaves.

Watering

Every 1–2 weeks, less in winter. It is far more forgiving of dry soil than wet.

Soil mix

Standard well-draining potting mix.

Pot

Any pot with a drainage hole.

Repotting

Rarely, every 3–5 years. It grows slowly and dislikes disturbance. Repot in spring when crowded.

Propagation

Divide the rhizome in spring, making sure each piece has roots and a few leaves.

Pets

Non-toxic to cats and dogs.

Brown leaf tips or patches. Direct sun, salt buildup, or inconsistent watering. Move out of direct sun, flush the soil occasionally, and water more evenly.
Yellowing leaves. Overwatering. Let the soil dry further between waterings and check drainage.
Very slow or no growth. Normal for this plant, slower still in low light. Be patient. A bit more light and spring feeding nudge it along, but it is naturally slow.
Faded, washed-out leaves. Too much direct light. Move to lower or filtered light.