VIRGO the virgin (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22): SANSEVIERIA. This succulent goes by many other names including snake plant, hemp plant, and mother-in-law’s tongue. It’s a survivor and will put up with haphazard watering, poor light, dust, heat, and dry air.

When treated properly–an hour of direct sun every day, low humidity, and a thorough watering every two weeks–sansevieria will grow lush and vigorously and may even produce tall spikes of fragrant, white blossoms. However, it often grows just as well with no direct light, low light, or full sun!

LIBRA the scales (Sept. 23 to Oct. 23): DRACENA. This impressive foliage plant is easy to grow and adaptable to most conditions. However, most varieties prefer an east window with soil moist just to the touch. Fertilize every three months, year round.

SCORPIO the scorpion (Oct. 24 to Nov. 21): SPIDER PLANT. An extremely hardy and easy to care for plant, the spider plant has cream and green-striped, grass-like leaves. It sends out long runners at the end of which small plants, miniature versions of the mother plant, grow.

Letting the plant dry out will cause leaf tips to turn brown as will fluoride in water or too little moisture in the air. Spider plants usually are sold as hanging plants and will grow best in filtered light. To avoid overwatering, water only when the soil is completely dry.

SAGITTARIUS the archer (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21): COLEUS. This multi-colored, fast-growing plant can reach heights of two and one-half feet and requires minimum care. It has a tendency to grow towards the light, so the pot should be turned every few days.

This plant needs plenty of water and should be sprayed periodically with a soapy solution for protection against mealy bugs. Keep bushy by pinching back often. The more light this plant gets, the better. Too little light will cause lagoons.

CAPRICORN the goat (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19): CHINESE EVERGREEN. This waxy-leaved plant tolerates poor light and low humidity, making it a perfect candidate for most offices, especially those without windows

It doesn’t like direct sun. Keep soil barely moist at all times. Several nice varieties are available, so shop around before you buy.

AQUARIUS the water bearer (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18): IVY. Your choices are many although conditions may dictate what you choose for a gift plant. English ivies prefer filtered light, such as that found in a northern window, and cool indoor temperatures.

Spider mites are often a problem with this variety, so inspect leaves regularly. Grape ivies need little light but like warm temperatures. Swedish ivies grow best in bright, indirect sunlight. Watering should be thorough and frequent for all varieties.

PISCES the fish (Feb. 19 to March 20): FALSE ARALIA. This upright shrub with bark-like stem and bizarre-looking, leathery, copper-colored leaves is not your typical houseplant.

It can grow to heights of five feet or more under ideal conditions–moist soil, bright light, and a draft-free location–and likes to spend its summers indoors. Leaf drop can be a problem if the soil is too wet or too dry.