Dracaena Marginata

Dracaena marginata growing outdoors
Dracaena marginata growing outdoors in the Teaching Garden at the Gulf Coast Research and Education Center, Plant City campus.

Dracaena marginata is commonly called red-edge dracaena, dragon tree or Madagascar dragon tree, and can grow to 15 feet in height. It’s supported by long, slender trunks or canes.

Narrow green leaves edged in purplish-red distinguish this dracaena from its multitude of cousins. Part of the agave family, there are roughly 40 species of Dracaena (pronounced druh-SEE-nuh). Other popular plants in this genus are the so-called “corn plant” and “lucky bamboo.”

Dracaena is one of the best indoor trees for low-light areas. It can grow as much as 18 inches annually for the first few years with sufficient light. South Florida gardeners zones 10b-11 can grow their dragon plant outdoors.

For something different, there’s a variety called ‘Tricolor’ with white leaves edged in pink.

Although most dracaenas have few problems with pests, occasionally mealy bugs and scale can attack the plant. Water thoroughly, then allow it to dry out before watering again.

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