Cordylena® Ruby Madagascar Dragon Tree

Light Needs

Partial Sun to Full Sun

(At Least 5 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

1.5-4 Feet

Mature Spread

1.5-2 Feet

This Dracaena is as dramatic as its name suggests. Ruby red margins stripe deep green leaves, originating from a gray trunk with scaly like overlaps, really are reminiscent of dragon scales and fiery breath. It is a fun landscape or container plant or houseplant in homes without pets. It is highly toxic to pets and cats especially seem to be drawn to its grass-like spikes. It is not harmful to humans, in fact it is listed as one of the air purifying plants recommended by NASA.

Native to Madagascar as the name also suggests, it is a perennial in Zones 10a through 11b. It loves hot summer temperatures, so in Zones 3-9, plant out in a sun to light shade area, or place in containers on a sunny patio. It does enjoy some light shade as too intense sun can burn the tips, though. All in all this is an easy annual to care for.

Cordylena Ruby Madagascar Dragon Tree Care

Requiring little more than well draining soil with a pH level of 5.8 to 6.4 and medium to high light to keep its colors bright, you will also find your dracaena will appreciate a light fertilizing once or twice in the season. It is susceptible to spider mites, particularly if the temperatures are warm and the environment quite dry. Thrips and mealy bugs can also be a problem, but use of a systemic pesticide will help to alleviate any worries these insects can cause. Use an average watering schedule as you do not want to let dracaena dry out completely. Note: it is important to use non-fluoridated water with most dracaenas as they can cause discoloration.

Deadheading is not required and pruning is discouraged as it can destroy the overall balance of the plant and slow new growth quite dramatically. It is already a slow grower that is not likely to overstep its bounds, so enjoy not having to have a heavy hand with this lovely plant. Should you experience tip burn due to dry out or too much intense sun, you may try to trim tips with a sharp pair of shears, although that may also create a dry edge to leaves. Prevention of tip burn is key.

Cordylena Ruby Madagascar Dragon Tree Spacing

Space this tall upright annual about 18 to 24 inches apart from other plants as it spreads 18 to 24 inches wide on its path to topping out at about 48 inches. Enjoy your Dragon Tree as a specimen plant in shallow containers, taking care not to cover the crown too deeply. Pairs well with supertunia, sedum and other sun loving annuals with cool colors to create an amazing color combination for your garden.

SKU:

DRARU