Tropical plants do not shed their leaves in preperation for winter. This means they are not deciduous (not shedding their leaves in the fall). Tropical plants are not prepared to handle temperatures much below 55 degees, and 65 to 70 degees is preferable. If you need to move a plant while the weather is cold, wrap all the foliage in paper, a sheet, or some light material that will cover it up. Then it can tolerate brief exposure to cold. Irreversable damage to a plant's leaves can be caused by the things listed below:
*Prolonged exposure to temperatures below 55 degrees.
*Wind chill from an open window or door, in your house or moving car.
*Transporting plants in an uncovered vehicle.
*Plants put in a car with the windows rolled up, on a hot day.
Cold damage is shown as limp black leaves, or a mottled, splotchy appearence. This is permanent damage, so remove as much a possible. They can be grown back, but the process will take time.
Damage from heat can look like light brown "freckling", or a scortching on the leaves (plant sunburn).
