Water
Allow the top 2-5 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Dracaena prefers consistently moist but not waterlogged soil. Reduce watering significantly in winter.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage.
Also known as Madagascar Dragon Tree
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to pets. See toxicity details.
Dracaena species are popular houseplants known for their attractive foliage and air-purifying qualities, bringing a touch of the tropics indoors.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright indirect light
50% intensity
Avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves. Tolerates lower light but growth may slow.
Allow top inch or two to dry
50% intensity
Prefers consistently moist but not soggy soil. Reduce in winter.
Well-draining potting mix
50% intensity
Average room temperature
50% intensity
Prefers 18-24°C. Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 13°C.
Moderate feeding
50% intensity
Feed with diluted liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during growing season (spring/summer).
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Mildly toxic to pets if ingested, causing vomiting, depression, and sometimes drooling.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Allow the top 2-5 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Dracaena prefers consistently moist but not waterlogged soil. Reduce watering significantly in winter.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage.
Prune to maintain desired shape and size, or to remove dead or yellowing leaves. Cut stems back to just above a leaf node. This encourages bushier growth. Use clean, sharp tools to prevent disease.
Pruning can be done anytime, but is best in spring.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take 10-15 cm cuttings from healthy stems, remove lower leaves, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Insert into moist potting mix or water. Roots will form within a few weeks.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Spring is the ideal time for repotting to allow the plant to establish in the new pot.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Dracaena Spp. (Dracaena spp.)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Dracaena |
| Species | Dracaena spp. |
Similar in genus Dracaena
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data