Water
Allow the soil to dry out almost completely between waterings. Water thoroughly, ensuring good drainage. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root rot.
Overwatering is the most common cause of problems for this plant.
Also known as Iguanatail · Isithokothoko (zulu) · Mother-In-Law’s Tongue
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
African Bowstring Hemp (Dracaena hyacinthoides) is an evergreen perennial with attractive foliage and fragrant white flowers. It thrives in warm climates and is drought-t
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light
50% intensity
Can tolerate lower light conditions, but prefers bright, indirect light for optimal growth.
Allow soil to dry between waterings
25% intensity
Thoroughly water when dry, ensure good drainage. Reduce in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Average room temperatures
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-25°C. Avoid drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations.
Feed during growing season
25% intensity
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength monthly in spring and summer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains saponins, causing gastrointestinal upset if ingested. Skin contact can cause irritation.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Allow the soil to dry out almost completely between waterings. Water thoroughly, ensuring good drainage. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root rot.
Overwatering is the most common cause of problems for this plant.
Prune to maintain desired shape and size, or to remove any dead or damaged leaves. Cut stems back to just above a leaf node. Pruning can be done at any time of year, but it is best to do it in spring or early summer.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings or offsets. Take 10-15 cm cuttings and root them in water or moist potting mix. Offsets can be separated and potted up individually. Both methods are best done in spring or summer.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one. Repotting is best done in spring.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of African Bowstring Hemp (Dracaena hyacinthoides)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Dracaena |
| Species | Dracaena hyacinthoides |
Similar in genus Dracaena
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
