Dragon Tree Dracaena marginata
At a glance
- Light
- Medium indirect
- 5000–15000 lux
- Water
- Every 10–21 days
- Top half of soil
- Humidity
- 30–60%
- Tolerates dry air
- Temperature
- 16–27°C
- Ideal 18–24°C
- Soil pH
- 6–6.5
- well-draining
- Mature size
- 240 cm tall
- 90 cm wide
- Native to
- Madagascar, Mauritius
- Growth
- Slow
- Tree
Watering calculator
Estimate how often to water your Dragon Tree based on pot size, light, and season.
Always check the top 2 cm of soil before watering. Calculator output is an estimate, not a schedule.
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Compare with similar plants
| Trait | Dragon Tree Dracaena marginata | Snake Plant Dracaena trifasciata | Rubber Plant Ficus elastica |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light | Medium indirect | Adaptable | Bright indirect |
| Water | 10–21 days | 14–21 days | 7–14 days |
| Pet safe | Toxic to cats and dogs | Toxic to cats and dogs | Toxic to cats and dogs |
| Difficulty | Easy | Very Easy | Easy |
| Mature size | 240 cm | 90 cm | 250 cm |
Light requirements in detail
Dragon Tree prefers medium indirect (5000–15000 lux) . Tolerates lower light than most plants; direct sun bleaches the red leaf edges
A spot 1–2 meters from a bright east or south-facing window usually fits this range. Direct afternoon sun through unfiltered glass can scorch leaves; sheer curtains help diffuse it.
Watering in detail
Water Dragon Tree every 10– 21 days during the growing season, allowing Top half of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter when growth slows.
This plant tolerates the occasional missed watering — err on the dry side rather than overwater.
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Frequently asked questions about Dragon Tree
How often should I water Dragon Tree?
Water Dragon Tree every 10–21 days during the growing season, allowing Top half of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency by 30–50% in winter.
What kind of light does Dragon Tree need?
Dragon Tree prefers medium indirect (5000–15000 lux). Tolerates lower light than most plants; direct sun bleaches the red leaf edges
Is Dragon Tree toxic to cats?
Dragon Tree is toxic to cats (moderate severity). Toxic compounds: saponins. Common symptoms: vomiting (occasionally with blood), depression, anorexia, hypersalivation, dilated pupils.
Is Dragon Tree toxic to dogs?
Dragon Tree is toxic to dogs (moderate severity). Toxic compounds: saponins. Common symptoms: vomiting (occasionally with blood), depression, anorexia, hypersalivation, weakness.
How big does Dragon Tree grow?
Dragon Tree reaches about 240 cm tall and 90 cm wide at maturity. Growth rate is slow.