Growing Dracaena

Latin Name Pronunciation: druh-see' nuh

Dracaena is a varied genus of trees and succulent shrubs originating in tropical regions of Africa, Asia, northern Australia, and Central America. Leaves contain saponins, compounds that are toxic to dogs and cats. Keep plants out of reach of any pets. If accidentally ingested, Draceana Plants can cause vomiting, excessive salivation, loss of appetite, depression, and dilated pupils.

Light: Draceanas do best in medium to bright, indirect or filtered light, or morning light from an east-facing window. Although they will tolerate lower light levels, such as near a north-facing window, they will reach their best potential in brighter situations.

Watering: Evenly moist soil is best during the growing season, ensuring that the root ball does not dry out. In winter when your Dracaena is not actively growing, water only when soil feels dry to the touch 1" down, using tepid water and always making sure that excess water does not sit inside the saucer or cachepot.

Temperature: This adaptable plant does fine in typical, daytime household temperatures (65-75°F), and prefers no cooler than 55°F at night.

Fertilizer: Apply a balanced (18-18-18), water-soluble houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month during the growing season (generally April into September). Do not fertilize in winter.

Humidity: Moderate humidity is beneficial; leaf tips may turn brown if air is too dry. Keep away from radiators and vents that blow dry air from heating or air conditioning systems. Mist a few times a week to increase humidity, or set plants on top of pebbles in a tray with water (water level should be just below pebbles to prevent saturating soil in the pot), or run a humidifier nearby. Occasionally wiping leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust is beneficial.