About
A palm-like shrub, usually grown as a houseplant with one or more upright stems terminating in two or more branches bearing dense clusters of shiny, sword-shaped leaves.
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, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1B
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants, Shrubs
HabitBushy, Columnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height4-8 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants, Sub-tropical
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 peat-free, loam-based potting compost with moderate humidity and shade from hot sun. See Dracaena for further advice
PruningNo pruning required, but can cut back stems to reduce size or encourage stronger growth
PropagationPropagate by removing whole tops and rooting with bottom heat. Can also root leafless sections of stem
Pest resistanceGlasshouse red spider mite and scale insects can be a problem
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free