- Height 18-48 Inches
- Width 18-24 Inches
- Use as a thriller when using in containers
- Grow outdoors or as a houseplant!
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.
Cordylena® Ruby Madagascar Dragon Tree Information
USDA Hardiness Zones: 10-11 |
Flower Color(s): Grown for Foliage |
Foliage Color(s) Red |
Light Exposure: Partial Sun to Full Sun |
Height Class: Tall |
Height: 18-48 Inches |
Spread: 18-24 Inches |
Spacing: 18-24 Inches |
Habit: Upright |
Watering: Average |
Drought Tolerant: No |
Container Role: Thriller |
Use Types: Container, Houseplant, Landscape |
Features: Low Maintenance, Foliage Interest, Deadheading Not Necessary |
Maintenance: Easy |
Scientific Name: Dracaena marginata 'Ruby' |
Common Name: Cordylena® Ruby Madagascar Dragon Tree |
Other Name(s): |
Plant Type: Annual |
Brand: Proven Selections |
- SKU:
- DRARUQT
Container Sizes
Please Note: The pictures below are to give a general representation of the different container sizes. The actual size/ages of plants are estimates and will vary based on; type of plant, time of year, last pruning & many other factors.
For more detailed information, please click here.
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Planter Shipping
Standard Colors: 2-3 business days
Special Order Colors: 8 weeks - this is due to the planter being custom made with the color(s) of your choice
Please Note: On special orders there can not be any cancellations
Plant Shipping
Time of Order:
Summer Shipping
- If there is extreme heat we’ll delay shipping.
- We’ll have to review what areas the plants are traveling through along with your location
Once your plant is shipped you’ll receive an email with tracking information. Depending on the above criteria we’ll ship your plant(s) towards beginning of the following week from your order. We put together this helpful guide of what to do when you receive your plants in the mail.
It is important to know that all of our plants are clearly labeled for which growing zones the plant can survive in. The plants are thoroughly trialed and tested in every growing zone before we state the plant can grow in a zone. Again, our #1 priority is to ship the plants to you healthy and ready to thrive in your location. So we will do everything in our power to do so.