About
This palm-like shrub, usually grown as a houseplant, with an upright stem terminating in two or more branches. These bear dense clusters of long, very narrow leaves in dark green edged with cream with a fine red margin.
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
Height2.5-4 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 good light, but shaded from hot sun. See Dracaena and houseplant cultivation 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