Dracaena is a popular houseplant with origins in Madagascar and other Indian Ocean islands. The origin of the plant name comes from the ancient Greek word Drakaina or ‘female dragon,’ due to a red gum-like resin in the stems of dracaena that was likened to dragons blood. Centuries ago, this resin was used for toothpaste, dyes, and medicines. Today, it is still used for varnish and photoengraving. Thanks to its tolerance for a wide range of temperatures, Dracaena is very popular as a large potted plant for homes and offices. It should be planted in a loamy, well-draining soil amended with peat moss and watered regularly during the growing season but never allowed to sit in water as they are prone to root rot. Watering should be slightly restricted during the winter. Best exposure will be a location with lots of indirect light; it will tolerate shadier locations but the leaves will lose some of their bright colour. Don’t put these plants in full sun as it can burn their leaves. They are an excellent air purifying plant and remove harmful chemicals from the air.
