Madagascar Dragon Tree
Dracaena reflexa var. angustifolia, also called Dracaena marginata, Dragon tree

- Light
- Low light to bright, indirect light. Best spot: close to a bright window but out of the sun's direct rays.
- Water
- Water when the top of the mix is dry
- Humidity
- Fine in ordinary indoor air
- Potting mix
- An indoor potting mix with good drainage
- Size
- Up to 6 feet indoors
- Pets
- Toxic to pets
How to care for a Madagascar dragon tree
Slow-growing and drought tolerant, with narrow leaves on slender stems. Bright, indirect light is ideal. Use a well-draining mix and let it dry between waterings, but not severely. It needs little fertilizer. Like most dracaenas it is sensitive to fluoride, which discolors the leaves, so use distilled or non-fluoridated water. Pruned stems usually branch into two or more.
Common problems
Mites, thrips and chewing insects; leaf spot diseases. Brown or discolored leaves often come from fluoride in tap water.
Questions people ask
How much light does a Madagascar dragon tree need?
Low light to bright, indirect light. Best spot: close to a bright window but out of the sun's direct rays.
How often should I water a Madagascar dragon tree?
Water when the top of the mix is dry.
Is Madagascar dragon tree toxic to cats and dogs?
Yes. Toxic to dogs, cats and horses (listed as Madagascar Dragon Tree, Dracaena marginata): vomiting, depression, loss of appetite, drooling, and dilated pupils in cats.
Sources
- NC State Extension Plant Toolbox: Dracaena reflexa var. angustifolia
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: Madagascar Dragon Tree
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