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Cornell University


Dracena
Dracaena sp.
(dra-see-na)



Click on thumbnails for larger image.

What about it?

There are many popular species of Dracena. They range from being 15 inch tall house plants(D. deremensis) to 70 feet tall trees (D. draco). Some common characteristics include the flat, palm-like foliage radiating out from a central stem. Foliage is usually a dark green with some hints of red or white.

What is it used for?

The smaller dracenas are used as table plants or floor plants inside the home. The larger dracenas are seen as specimen trees and in planters in atriums or other warm places.

Where does it grow? How do we grow it?

Dracena is a warm weather plant used to a semi-tropical environment. It likes a moderate amount of sunlight and moist soil. Temperatures should be warm. If the plant is cut back it will develop new shoots. Most varieties do not need to be repotted.

What are its primary problems?

Dracena usually has problems with red spider mites and mealybugs. D. reflexa is considered to be a more susceptible variety, while D. sanderiana is considered to be less-susceptible.

How do we propagate it?

Cuttings from the canes can root directly in the pot. Air layering is also successful.

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