Dragon Plant (Madagascar Dragon Tree)

Member Name: Zmugzy

Product:	Madagascar Dragon Tree
Date:	12/05/06 (8532 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: A nice looking plant

Disadvantages: needs some care

The Madagascar Dragon Tree (Dracaena Marginata)

Dracaenas are members if the Liliaceae family and the name is derived from the Greek word drakania which means female dragon. There are many varieties but the Dracaena Marginata has very thin dark green leaves that have an almost coppery like appearance (not like the variety pictured).

According to the literature that I have read, the Madagascar Dragon Tree plant apparently originates in Costa Rica and Sir Lanka... there must be an error here somewhere as these places are so far apart from each other and where does Madagascar come in?

This is a rather elegant and popular house plant with thin variegated leaves and a long upright straight thin stem. The linear stem and its topping of grassy leaves makes it an ideal striking focal point in any room. It is a plant that has been around for quite a while and is relatively easy too look after. The plant also acts as an effective air cleaner and helps to promote a healthy environment.

Site:
The plant should be situated in a relatively bright area of a room but not in direct sunlight. Extensive sunlight may burn the leaf tips.

Humidity:
Don't let the atmosphere get too dry. Keep the humidity up to stop leaf drop. It is a good idea to mist the leaves regularly with rain water rather than tap water.

Watering : It is important not to let the compost dry out in the growing season. Keep it moist but avoid over watering and reduce the watering in winter (once a week). Keep the humidity up with misting

Growth:
These plants grow rather slowly, usually 10 - 15 cm per year.

Soil:
The soil should be loam based No2. or a peat based compost is suitable.

Feeding:
A liquid feed every month or so should do nicely in the summer time.

Repotting:
The plant can be repotted every two years or so during the spring. It is important to ensure that there is good drainage.

Tip:
Place in a pebble tray to increase humidity.

Price:
For some reason, I guess aesthetic, a larger plant is often sold in a pot alongside two smaller plants, so that you have a threesome. A tall plant (a metre or more in height) sold like this can cost between £30 and £40. Smaller single plants can be purchased from about £4.

Summary: A good house plant