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Dinner Plate Aralia Leaf Drop and Cold-Hardy Houseplants for Michigan Windows

Tamika's Dinner Plate Aralia in a south-facing office window drops bottom leaves but sprouts new branches. Coworker says it's too cold. Asks which houseplants survive Michigan winters on a windowsill.

Expert Answer: The plant is fine—it tolerates down to 35°F. Leaf drop is natural for this shrubby plant. Most houseplants survive to 45°F; cacti to 30°F. Just don't let leaves touch cold glass.

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