Dracaena Reflexa Var Reflexa
Dracaena reflexa var. reflexa (dra-SEE-nah re-FLEX-ah variety re-FLEX-ah)
This dracaena is a variety of shrub or tree native to Northeast Mozambique to Madagascar and thrives in warm tropical climates. It is a member of the asparagus family (Asparagaceae). This plant has a narrow trunk and forms rosettes of sword-like, glossy, dark green leaves. It is winter hardy in the USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 11 to 12. In the United States, It may be used as an ornamental houseplant. This dracaena prefers bright, indirect sunlight and moist, well-drained potting mix. The addition of perlite or sand will encourage adequate soil drainage. Keep the soil moist, but avoid overwatering. Use room temperature filtered water when watering this plant. This plant does not tolerate fluoride and chlorine found in tap water. It prefers a room temperature of 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and high humidity. If needed use a humidifier or place the plant on a bed of wet pebbles. It is best to avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature changes. In the spring and summer months, fertilize the plant monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer. It can be propagated by stem cuttings. Indoors this plant can grow 3 to 6 feet tall and 1 to 3 feet wide. When grown in its native habitat, it can reach 12 to 18 feet tall and 3 to 8 feet wide. It grows upright with a bushy habit and may have a single trunk or may be branched. The bark is smooth and grayish, but as the plant matures the bark becomes more textured. The leaves are spirally arranged, sword-shaped, reflexed, and green. As a houseplant, it rarely flowers. It flowering occurs, they are small, white, and fragrant and produce a berry-like fruit. The Dracaena reflexa var. reflexa is a best used as a houseplant for the home or office. Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Monitor of spider mites, mealybugs, scale, and thrips. Overwatering can cause root rot, and leaf spot can occur if the leaves get wet during watering or from poor air circulation. Yellow leaves result from overwatering or underwatering. Leaf scorch or faded leaves can occur from direct sunlight. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Keep out of reach of pets. More information on Dracaena .
Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 51 attributes.
How it fits the guild