Dracaena

Description

Dracaena deremensis is a plant of considerable decorative value for its numerous firm, elongated leaves, glaucous green with ivory stripes; it can grow to a considerable size. Dracaena sanderiana, usually of modest size, has lanceolate leaves with white, wavy margins. Dracaena fragrans, commonly called corn plant (in Italian “tronchetto della felicità”), consists of a piece of woody trunk from which several shoots sprout.

Cultivation

Dracaenas are easy plants to keep thriving; they like a bright position, but not one exposed to direct sunlight. These tropical plants fear sudden cold, which can cause the leaves on the lower part of the stems to drop. The temperature must never fall below 12 degrees. The ideal substrate is an all-purpose compost made lighter by adding a little sand. Watering should be abundant during the growing period and moderate in winter. Monthly feeding will be enough to give the plants the nourishment they need.

Propagation

Propagation is by tip cuttings. The top of a dracaena, placed in water, roots easily.