About
A compact, slow-growing tropical evergreen shrub, with an upright habit and sparsely branching stems. Leaves are long, arching and sword-shaped, with light green centres edged with white, and dark green margins.
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, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1B
Plant details
Plant typeHouseplants
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesHouseplants
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, in full light with shade from hot sun. Water moderately in the growing season, preferably with rainwater as plants dislike tapwater. Apply a balanced liquid feed monthly in the growing season; water sparingly in winter. Top dress or pot on in spring. See Dracaena for further advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings in late spring to early summer; 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