Dracaena Plant

Most of us are familiar with the lucky bamboo plant, which is one of the popular houseplants across the globe. Apart from being less messy, these plants are believed to bring good luck. Even though, it is known in the name of lucky bamboo, in fact, this plant is not a type of bamboo, but, belongs to the genus Dracaena in the family Ruscaceae. Apart from the lucky bamboo plant (Dracaena sanderiana), there are around 39 species of trees and succulent shrubs in this genus.

Dracaena plants are said to be natives to Africa, but, some are considered to be originated in some parts of Asia and Central America. Most of the members of this genus are grown as houseplants, as they require low maintenance. These plants are found to be narrow growing with a height range of 2 to 10 feet. These plants have long and pointed leaves, that sport white, yellow or pink stripes in some varieties.

More About Dracaena Plants

As mentioned above, these plants are very popular as houseplants, as they can tolerate the indoor conditions very well. Apart from that, these plants require very less maintenance. There are different types of dracaena plants that differ in size and features. While corn plant (Dracaena Fragrans) has woody stems and large leaves with white or yellow stripes, one of the popular cultivars of this species, called Dracaena massangeana have bright yellow stripes on the leaves. Another dracaena species Dracaena marginata possesses narrow leaves, that can have a length of around two feet. As the plant grows, it loses the leaves on the lower parts of the trunk, that turns gray in color. Even the leaves have white, yellow or rose-colored margins.

Another species called Dracaena deremensis has bold leaves and the plant itself is very compact. There is a spotted variety, that is also called gold dust plant (Dracaena surculosa). In short, there are many different varieties of dracaena, that differ in size, color and features. If you are interested in problem-free houseplants, then, you can go for a plant of your choice.

How to Care for Dracaena

• While buying these plants, choose healthy ones, which are well rooted. In case of plants with woody stem, select those with firm trunks.
• While lucky bamboo plants do not require soil for growth, other need well-drained soil. Place shards of terracotta pots on the bottom of the containers (for good drainage), that can be filled with equal parts of potting soil and peat moss. Plant your dracaena in large containers and re-pot them every four to five years.
• Even though, dracaena plants can grow in low light, for a healthy growth, place them in locations with bright, but, indirect light. They don't have any special requirements regarding temperature and humidity.
• Watering is required once or twice a week. They need more water during dry weather and so, the frequency of watering has to be increased, in order to avoid complete drying out of the soil.
• Fertilizers can be used in small amounts during the spring and summer. It will be better to use water-soluble plant foods to feed them.

So, if you are interested in growing some, contact the local nursery and get the dracaena plant of your choice.