The dracaena plant is also referred to as a dragon tree. The word dracaena originates from the Greek word ”drakaina,” which translates to ”female dragon.” The dragon tree was equated to dragon blood because of the reddish resins found in its stem. The resin of this plant was used for dyes and medicines in the past. It is a plant with thin and narrow stems crowned with green sword-shaped leaves rimmed with red around the edges. The dracaena releases tiny white fragrant flowers in the spring before round yellowish berries are produced. These berries might not appear if the dracaena is planted indoors. The benefits of having a dracaena tree are extensive; for instance, this tree also purifies the air we breathe.
The dracaena plant is from the asparagus family and consists of close to 40 different species. The dracaena plant contains a secondary thickening meristem, which enables the plant to mature faster.
This is the perfect plant for beginners who are just dipping their feet in the garden pool for the first time because they are easy to cultivate indoors. When exposed to outdoor climate, the dracaena plant is capable of growing up to 20 feet tall, but it is mostly used as an indoor plant and trimmed to about 5 feet or less. The dracaena plants are sturdy, drought-resistant trees with a fierce root structure. What distinguishes it from other indoor plants is its ability to adapt to a wide range of temperatures, and because of that, they make for outstanding houseplants.
This article is going to emphasize on the following points to inform you of the methods that need to be followed to take care of the dragon tree adequately. You can learn:
* The different types of dracaena trees
* How to grow a dracaena tree
* The poisonous nature of the dracaena tree
* The common pests and diseases the dracaena tree is defenseless against.
The Different Species of the Dracaena Tree
As stated earlier, a variety of dracaena species exist, but only a few of the most popular variations of this plant shall be addressed in this article.
Dracaena Reflexa
This species of dracaena plant is commonly referred to as the pleomele or song of India. This plant is native to islands close to the Indian Ocean, around Madagascar or Mozambique. The dracaena reflexa is the most popular species of the dracaena; people are drawn to this plant thanks to its stunning leaves. The slender pointed leaves of this houseplant are riddled with yellow stripes that grab the attention of passers-by. This houseplant can grow indoors or in a shady area, and it doesn’t require high humidity levels.
Dracaena Marginata
Known to most people as the Madagascar dragon tree or the red-edge dracaena, this plant is capable of growing up to 15 feet high and up to 8 feet wide. It has long polished narrow leaves with red edges and a thin truck. This evergreen plant is drought tolerant and can last for years, making it perfect for indoors. It inclined toward a shady area with high light levels but can settle for low light levels.
Dracaena Massangeana
The dracaena massangeans are also called mass cane or corn plant, and like its peers, it is mostly used indoors. It is not as expensive as the other species of the dracaena plants, and it is also relatively cheap compared to other houseplants. It has large canes, and its leaves can be said to resemble thin straps. The dracaena massangeana doesn’t grow quickly, so it can be placed in an area for years without requiring regular trimming.
How to Grow a Dracaena Tree
The dracaena tree is fairly easy to maintain and care for due to the fact that this plant is drought resistant and can flourish in a wide range of temperatures. The following details should be met to ensure the healthy growth of your dracaena tree.
Light
The best position for the dracaena plant is an area that receives lots of indirect sunlight, but this plant can also cope in shady places. Positioning this plant in dark areas will cause its bright green leaves to diminish in color, and this plant will end up producing smaller leaves. The dracaena tree should also not be placed in direct sunlight; this can cause its leaves to burn off.
Recommended Soil Type
If this plant is to be grown in a pot, the use of loamy soil enhanced with peat moss is recommended. Make sure you use loose, well-drained potty mixed soil to ensure your plant develops appropriately. Lastly, the pot should have enough space for the root system of the dracaena plant.
Water
Confirm that half of the soil in the pot is dried before you water the dracaena plant to ensure that is the plant is not excessively watered. The plant shows symptoms when it has been overwatered, by producing brown tipped leaves.
The Poisonous Nature of the Dracaena Tree
Elegant as this plant is, it is highly toxic to cats and dogs. The dracaena tree is not poisonous to human beings but can cause catastrophic damage when it comes in contact with dogs, and most especially cats. Cats, for an unknown reason, seems drawn to this plant which contains toxic alkyds. When ingested, the most common symptoms include salivating and vomiting. The treatment is basically straightforward; the doctor typically induces vomiting to get rid of the plant present in the stomach of the animal before fluids are given to undo dehydration.
The Common Pests and Diseases the Dracaena Tree is Defenseless Against
This sturdy tree is usually pest resistance; it is generally vulnerable to thrips, spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. Mealybugs leave tiny sticky cotton deposits, making it easy to identify. However, spider mites are almost impossible to discover until it is too late and damage has already been done to the plant. Spider mites strive in warm temperatures and when the air is dry. An insecticide that contains pyrethrin can be used to eradicate scales and mealybugs.
Dracaena is the go-to houseplant that is easy to care for and can last for an extended period of time. Now that you are aware of how to care for this plant, you can go ahead and beautify your home with this magnificent plant.