About
A large, evergreen tree from tropical West and Central Africa with broadly ovate, leathery, dark green leaves, small, yellow flowers in axillary clusters and small, edible, fig-like, yellowish fruits. A rarely cultivated tropical tree, valued for its hard, very durable timber; grown only as a botanical curiosity in warm, humid, tropical conditions.
About the genus
Dracaena are evergreen trees, the few branches bearing linear to lance-shaped leaves often crowded towards the tips; on mature plants, small greenish-white flowers may be followed by orange or red berries
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH1B
Plant details
Plant typeTrees
HabitColumnar upright, Spreading branched
FoliageEvergreen
Height4-8 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Patio and container plants
ToxicityPets (dogs, cats, rabbits, rodents): Harmful if eaten. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in a free-draining, gritty potting mix, in full sun. Though sometimes used in landscaping in warmer regions, it will not tolerate frost and in the UK is best grown in a greenhouse or in containers that can be moved indoors over winter. Water moderately in the growing season, preferably with rainwater, and apply a balanced liquid feed monthly. Keep almost dry in winter. See Dracaena for further advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed, sown at 18-20°C in spring, or by semi-ripe cuttings in late spring to early summer. Allow cuttings to callus before inserting into growing media, bottom heat may be required for rooting
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to scale insects, glasshouse red spider mite, thrips and mealybugs
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free