About
A palm-like erect evergreen shrub with reflexed, sword-shaped green leaves, broadly margined white.
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, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH1B
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Shrubs, Houseplants
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesPatio 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
CultivationUnder glass grow in peat-free, loam-based potting compost in full light with shade from hot sun and with moderate humidity. Water freely and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly from spring to autumn and keep just moist in winter. If growth is weak, plants can be cut back to within 15cm of the base in spring. Tolerant of low light levels indoors. See Dracaena for further advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings or leafless stem sections in spring with bottom heat
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite and scale insects under glass
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free