How to Care for Dracaena

Dracaena spp.

ABOUT DRACAENA

Popular varieties:

Marginata (as shown above left)
Lemon Lime (as shown above right)
Janet Craig (as shown at right)
Rikki

Dracaena are among the easiest and most common houseplants to grow. Add interest to your home by selecting an assortment with contrasting colors and textures for a spectacular display.

Known for their ability to clean the air of harmful toxins, they are excellent easy care houseplants.

WATERING

When should I water my Dracaena?

Let dry out between waterings. To see if your plant needs water, stick your finger about an inch down into the soil. If it feels dry, water. If the soil feels moist, do not water. If you are unsure, check again in a few days.

Never mist your foliage. Misting leaves causes fungal issues and disease. The only plants that are okay to mist are ferns and carnivorous plants.

LIGHT NEEDS

Most Dracaena plants thrive in medium or bright indirect light for optimal growth. They are versatile plants and can tolerate low light conditions as well but not direct sun.

Illustration of a living room with labeled plants, including a Bird of Paradise. A chair, window, and table with plants (numbers 1 and 2) are in the center. A small cabinet with plant number 3 is to the right. Icons below indicate light levels: high, medium, and low.

GROWTH

Will grow 2-10 feet tall, depending on the variety.

SOIL NEEDS

Prefer a well-drained soil mix.

TEMPERATURE & HUMIDITY

Grow best in regular household temperatures and humidity.

FERTILIZING

It is best to fertilize March through October. Prune as needed when the plant is actively growing. To promote optimal growth, occasionally dust the leaves and rotate the pot by a ¼ turn once a month.

IS DRACAENA PET SAFE?

According to the ASPCA, they are toxic to dogs and cats.

TROUBLESHOOTING

If it gets too tall or lanky, prune the top off. Most types will resprout and become bushier. If your plant has brown leaf tips, try boosting the humidity. Dry air or soil that stays dry too long can cause this issue. Yellow leaf tips are an indication of overwatering.

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The Benefits of Houseplants

(…and why we love them)

A lush fern plant with long, slim fronds is displayed in a sleek white, modern pot, resembling the elegance youd seek when learning how to care for African violets. The plant takes center stage against a plain white background.

They purify & clean the air

A small tree with a thick trunk and glossy green Bird of Paradise leaves in a white geometric-patterned pot, surrounded by smooth, round stones.

Boost your mood, reducing stress & anxiety

A Bird of Paradise with lush green, long, pointed leaves sits elegantly in a white pot against a pristine white background.

Help you sleep better

A vibrant green fiddle leaf fig plant sits elegantly in a textured white pot against a plain white background, reminiscent of minimalistic spaces. Though different from cacti, its care brings a serene beauty to any room.

Act as natural humidifiers

A potted monstera plant with several large, glossy green leaves featuring natural holes and splits stands proudly in a plain black pot against a white background. Its exotic charm might remind one of a Bird of Paradise, adding an elegant touch to any space.

Enhance cognitive skills

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