Product details
Product Overview
Dracaena draco Dragon Tree is a slow-growing evergreen tree with a thick trunk and dense rosettes of sword-shaped, blue-green leaves. Young plants form a single crown, gradually developing a branching, umbrella-shaped canopy with age. Its sculptural form suits waterwise gardens, spacious courtyards and large feature pots.
Growth:
Very slow growing, eventually reaching approximately 8–10 m high with a canopy spread of 5–8 m in favourable conditions. Takes many decades to develop its mature size and remains considerably smaller in containers. Branching generally develops after flowering.
Light Requirements:
Prefers full sun but tolerates part shade. Gradually acclimatise plants grown under shade to direct sunlight. Young plants may benefit from protection during extreme afternoon heat.
Soil Requirements:
Requires freely draining soil and grows well in sandy, gravelly or loamy conditions. Improve drainage in heavy soils or plant in a raised bed. For containers, use a quality cactus and succulent potting mix.
Water Requirements:
Water deeply during establishment, allowing the soil to dry between applications. Established trees need occasional watering during extended dry periods. Reduce watering in cool weather and avoid waterlogged soil.
Frost Tolerance:
Established trees tolerate light frost, but young plants and new growth are more vulnerable to cold damage. Choose a sheltered position in frost-prone areas and protect young specimens from heavy or prolonged frosts.
Drought Tolerance:
Highly drought tolerant once established. Benefits from occasional deep watering during prolonged hot, dry weather, particularly when grown in containers.
Flowering Information:
Mature plants produce clusters of small, fragrant, greenish-white to cream flowers in summer, followed by orange berries. The first flowering may take 10–15 years or longer, depending on growing conditions. Flowering is followed by branching beneath the spent flower head.
Spacing Requirements:
Allow approximately 5–8 m between trees intended to develop broad, mature canopies. Position well clear of buildings, overhead obstructions and narrow pathways to accommodate long-term growth.
Fertiliser Requirements:
Has low fertiliser requirements. Apply a light feed of controlled-release fertiliser suitable for succulents in spring, following the label directions. Avoid excessive feeding.
Care and Maintenance:
Remove fully dried lower leaves as needed, taking care not to damage the trunk or growing crown. Routine pruning is generally unnecessary. Maintain good drainage and repot container-grown plants when needed, using a stable pot with room for root development.
