Dracaena

Dracaena marginata

houseplant

verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team

The Dragon Tree is a slender, architectural plant with narrow, red-edged leaves on long canes. One of the best air-purifying plants, it is extremely tolerant of neglect.

Common Problems

Select the problem your Dracaena is experiencing to get a treatment guide.

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Yellow Leaveschevron_right

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Brown Tipschevron_right

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Leggy Growthchevron_right

Care Guide

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Light

Bright indirect light. Tolerates low light.

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Water

Every 2–3 weeks; allow to dry between waterings.

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Soil

Well-draining potting mix.

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Fertiliser

Every 2 months in spring/summer.

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Temperature

16–27°C (60–80°F).

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Humidity

Average. Avoid very dry air.

Toxicity

dangerousToxic to CatsdangerousToxic to Dogscheck_circleSafe for Children

Toxic to cats and dogs.

Common Diseases

filter_dramaRoot Rotchevron_right grainLeaf Spotchevron_right

Common Pests

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Seasonal Care

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Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.

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Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.

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Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.

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Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Dracaena Marginata have bare, woody stems with leaves only at the top?

This is the plant's natural growth habit — as it matures, lower leaves drop and the trunk becomes bare and woody, giving it its distinctive "dragon tree" silhouette rather than being a sign of a problem.

How drought-tolerant is Dracaena Marginata really?

Very — it's one of the most forgiving houseplants for infrequent watering, and it's far more likely to suffer from overwatering than from being left dry for a week or two too long.