Dracaena draco

Features and care

The Dracaena draco, known as the dragon tree or Canary Island dragon tree, is an evergreen tree of extraordinary ornamental and botanical value, native to the Macaronesia region (with a particularly strong presence in the Canary Islands). It forms a sculptural and profoundly architectural silhouette, characterized by a thick, robust trunk that, over the years and with successive flowerings, branches dichotomously to create a dense, parasol-shaped crown composed of long, rigid, sword-shaped, grayish-green leaves. Its iconic sap, which turns a deep red when oxidized, has historically earned it the name “dragon’s blood.”

Very slow-growing but with a legendary lifespan, it can reach majestic proportions, developing over time a massive, distinctive trunk with numerous branches. In maturity, the plants produce a large, erect inflorescence of small white flowers followed by globose, orange-hued fruits. It is ideal as a centerpiece in Mediterranean and subtropical gardens, large-format rock gardens, and landscape projects seeking a strong, exotic visual impact.

It requires full sun and light, loose soil with excellent drainage, adapting very well to stony or volcanic terrain. Once established, it tolerates drought and intense heat perfectly; watering should be moderate and infrequent, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings. It is essential to avoid waterlogging, as excess moisture is very harmful to its roots, and to protect it from severe frosts during its early stages.

Extended species profile

Verified cultivation data, designed so that any visitor can understand at a glance whether the plant is suitable for their climate and garden.

Crop

Exposure

Full sun

Irrigation

ORN-HUM 3/5 · medium

Soil / moisture

Dry to cool; very well drained

Bloom

Summer

Climate

USDA Hardiness

8b–11

Compatible climates

BSh, BSk, Csa

Tolerance to humid climate

ORN-HUM 2/5 · low

Maintenance

Development

ORN-ALT 4/5 · 6–12 m · very slow growth

Pests

ORN-PLAGA 3/5 · medium — check for sucking insects, mites, and rot depending on climate and drainage

Pass

ORN-FRUIT 1/5 · very low — light application in spring; excess N reduces resistance and compacts growth

  • Warning

Sensitive to frost and waterlogging; in humid climates it needs ventilation and drainage.

Extended species profile

Verified cultivation data, designed so that any visitor can understand at a glance whether the plant is suitable for their climate and garden.

Crop

Exposure

Full sun

Irrigation

ORN-HUM 3/5 · medium

Soil / moisture

Dry to cool; very well drained

Bloom

Summer

Climate

USDA Hardiness

Zones 6 – 9

Compatible climates

Cfa, Cwa, Csa, soft Dfa

Tolerance to humid climate

ORN-HUM 3/5 · medium

Maintenance

Development

ORN-ALT 4/5 · 6–12 m · rapid growth

Pests

ORN-PLAGA 3/5 · medium — sucking/boring insects and foliar or root fungi; monitor for water stress

Pass

ORN-FEEDING 2/5 · low — prioritize soil and organic matter; fertilize in spring only according to analysis and vigor

  • Warning

Sensitive to frost and waterlogging; in humid climates it needs ventilation and drainage.

DRACAENA DRACO

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