Dracaena reflexa has become a favored houseplant that has its roots in Madagascar along with the other Indian Ocean islands. The plant’s name stems from the Greek words drakaina which translates to “female dragon,” due to the red gum-like resin within the leaves of dracaena which was compared to blood of dragons. In the past, this resin was used to make dyes, toothpaste and even medicine. It is currently used to make photoengraving and varnish. The dracaena plant is often referred to as”the” Song of India and Pleomele.
Dracaena maintenance is quite simpleand they may even stand up to a certain amount of carelessness. The best part is that dracaena can help to purify the air that we breathe.
Dracaena Overview
The dracaena plant is well-known ornamental houseplant that can be which can be found both outdoors and indoors within subtropical environments. It can reach a height of approximately three feet indoors and is characterized by a bushy tree kind of appearance. The leaves are glossy and can grow up to a foot long and about a couple of inches wide.
In the asparagus family (Asparagaceae) the Genus dracaena is home to around 40 species. The most sought-after cultivar is the yellow-edged variegata variety dubbed Song of India. A fascinating fact about Drachaena is that it is equipped with an additional thickening meristem (the tissue that aids plants to develop). Its secondary meristem enables it to develop wide long, thick as well as succulent root systems.
Not only can its striking foliage and beautiful patterns make for a wonderful centerpiece in any space and aid in improving the the quality of air. Wiping both the surfaces of the upper and lower sides of the leaves on a regular basis with a damp , damp cloth will allow the plant to circulate air around freely.
Types of Dracaena
Dracaena Reflexa Also known as the song of India or pleomele. Dracaena reflexa is the most widespread of the species of dracaena. It is among the most striking house plants, the leaves are the main draw. There’s no way to overlook the yellow stripes on the narrow , pointed leaves of this plant. The plant is adaptable and thrives in a shaded indoor or outdoor space, such as an outdoor patio.
Dracaena Marginata Commonly referred to as a red-edged dracaena and Madagascar dragon tree. Dracaena marginata is an evergreen tree which can be anywhere from eight to fifteen feet high and up to eight feet in width with appropriate maintenance. It is characterized by its stiff, red-purple leaves as well as thin, curving stalks that form trunks. As it can’t tolerate low light , but is frost resistant so it is typically kept indoors. They are great house plants because they are drought-tolerant and one of the most tolerant plant species like dracaena.
Dracaena massangeana Dracaena fragrans Massangeana also known as the Dracaena Massangeana is often known as mass cane or corn plant and is often utilized indoors. It is comparatively cheap compared to other houseplants and also the least expensive of the varieties of dracaena. Mass cane is distinguished by its woody, thick canes as well as its long, leaves with a strap. While moderate natural light is ideal, it is also tolerant of dim lighting. Dracaena massangeana is a slow-growing plant and can be able to fit into a area for a prolonged period of duration without much care.
Dracaena Care Tips
If you’re wondering what to do for your dracaena Then we’ve got your covered with these suggestions. The general approach to caring for dracaena is quite straightforward.
The light source: Filtered indoor light (such as through a sheer curtain the front of a window that is sunny) as well as a semi-shade space is a great spot. Do not place a dracaena tree in direct sunlight, since the sun’s rays can burn its leaves.
The water of Dracaena requires less irrigation than many indoor plants. Maintain them well-hydrated by misting their foliage with water, and making sure the soil is misted (never wet) and also with drainage that is good. Make sure to allow the top soil to dry before watering. Avoid overwatering, since it can cause root to rot.
Yellowing or drooping leaves can be a sign of poor drainage or over-watering However, don’t be concerned when you see the bottom leaves turning brown and fall. It’s normal for dracaenas to shed their leaves to make room for new ones.
The plants are susceptible to fluoride, which may be detected in tap water. Therefore, it’s important to use pure water while caring for the plant. Leaves with dark brown or dead areas that have yellow edges can suggest fluoride poisoning.
The temperature range is Dracaena is a fan of temperatures that range between 65-78 degrees in the daytime. The night temperatures are typically 10 degrees, however cold drafts and temperatures that are below 55 can damage the plant. It is important to keep your dracaena far from heating or cooling equipment. Room humidity can be natural since the dracaena an extremely hardy houseplant however it would prefer the humidity levels in its rainforest habitat. You can increase the humidity using an industrial humidifier or by putting the plant in pebbles on a tray and letting the water soak just beneath the tops of the pebbles.
Toxicity The toxic effect is felt by dogs as well as cats if they eat. Cats can have pupils that are dilated as well as both dogs and cats might exhibit signs such as vomiting, excessive saliva, and an inability to eat. If you’re a pet owner, it is essential to choose your plants with care , and that requires being informed about plants that can be poisonous for our furry companions.
Pests and ProblemsDracaena plants generally are free of serious pest or disease issues. However, it is important to look for spider mites and scale. Scale and mealybugs can be dealt with using an insecticide that is pyrethrin-based.
Dracaena is a tolerant and easy-to-care houseplant which can thrive indoors as well as outside in shade, for those who reside in a subtropical region.