Water
Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Water thoroughly until excess drains from the pot. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering frequency during winter months when the plant's growth slows.
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to pets. See toxicity details.
Dracaena serpenta is an attractive evergreen shrub known for its upright, cane-like stems and lance-shaped leaves. It's a popular choice for indoor and patio decoration.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Moderate
50% intensity
Bright, indirect light is ideal. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry between waterings.
Well-draining potting mix
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers average room temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 13°C.
Low
25% intensity
Feed sparingly during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Mildly toxic to pets if ingested, causing vomiting, depression, and anorexia.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Water thoroughly until excess drains from the pot. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering frequency during winter months when the plant's growth slows.
Prune to maintain shape and size, or to remove dead or yellowing leaves. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Cut back stems to encourage bushier growth.
Pruning is best done in spring or early summer before active growth begins.
Propagate from stem cuttings. Cut a healthy stem section about 10-15 cm long. Remove lower leaves and insert the cut end into moist potting mix or water.
Roots will typically form within a few weeks, after which it can be potted.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Repotting is best done in the spring before the start of the growing season.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Dracaena Serpenta (Dracaena serpenta)
Where Dracaena Serpenta (Dracaena serpenta) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Dracaena |
| Species | Dracaena serpenta |
Similar in genus Dracaena
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
