Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2-5 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering frequency during cooler months.
Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, especially in pots.
Also known as Dracaena Money Tree · Dracenea Marginata · Dragon Tree
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Song of India (Dracaena reflexa) is a tropical evergreen shrub or small tree with glossy, variegated leaves and fragrant white flowers. It's a popular ornamental plant.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light is ideal.
75% intensity
While it can tolerate lower light conditions, bright, indirect light promotes the best growth and variegation. Avoid direct, intense sunlight which can scorch the leaves.
Allow top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings.
50% intensity
Dracaena reflexa prefers its soil to dry out somewhat between waterings, but avoid letting it become completely bone dry for extended periods. Overwatering is a common issue leading to root rot.
Well-draining potting mix
50% intensity
Average room temperatures.
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-24°C. Avoid exposing it to temperatures below 13°C or sudden drastic temperature fluctuations.
Feed during growing season.
50% intensity
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength monthly from spring through summer. Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 1/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Sap is mildly toxic if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-5 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering frequency during cooler months.
Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging, especially in pots.
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or yellowing leaves, and encourage bushier growth. Trim back leggy stems in spring or summer. Use clean, sharp pruning shears.
Major pruning can be done to rejuvenate older plants and encourage new shoots from the base.
Propagate from stem cuttings, typically 10-15 cm long, taken in spring or summer. Remove lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant in a well-draining potting mix and keep moist and warm.
Roots usually form within 4-6 weeks.
Repot every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent blend.
Repot in spring before the active growing season begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Song Of India (Dracaena reflexa)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Dracaena |
| Species | Dracaena reflexa |
Similar in genus Dracaena
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
