I am a slow-growing, evergreen tree with a unique growth habit. I develop a single trunk when young, and with age, I begin to branch dichotomously (splitting into two), creating an umbrella-like canopy.
My most striking features are my stout, gray trunk and the dense rosettes of stiff, sword-shaped leaves at the ends of my branches. My leaves are a blue-green or deep green color.
I am a specimen tree of immense character, perfect for those who appreciate structural plants with a story.

I am native to the Canary Islands, Cape Verde, Madeira, and western Morocco.

I am extremely drought-tolerant and highly susceptible to overwatering.
As a young plant, water me deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Once established, I am very water-wise. In the landscape, I often thrive on rainfall alone. In a pot, water me sparingly, especially in winter. "When in doubt, don't water" is a good rule for me.

I am a sun-worshipper! I require full, direct sun for at least 6 hours daily to develop a strong structure and compact growth.
I can tolerate some light shade, but my growth will be even slower, and my form may become leggy. I will not thrive in low-light indoor conditions.

I thrive in warm, Mediterranean to arid climates. My ideal temperature range is between 15°C and 29°C.
I am surprisingly cold-hardy for a Dracaena and can withstand brief temperatures as low as -4°C once mature. I am best suited for USDA zones 9b-11.

Location: Choose a spot with excellent drainage and plenty of space for my wide, spreading canopy. I am ideal for xeriscapes and rock gardens.

Soil: I demand very well-draining, gritty soil. A cactus/succulent mix is perfect for potted specimens. I am tolerant of poor, rocky soils.

Potting: If grown in a container, ensure it has large drainage holes and use a very gritty potting mix. I am a slow grower and will not need frequent repotting.

Handling: Be careful of the sharp tips of my leaves!

I am an exceptionally light feeder and are adapted to nutrient-poor soils.
If desired, you can feed me with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or a cactus fertilizer in the spring, but it is not necessary. Over-fertilizing can do more harm than good.

Scientific Name: Dracaena draco

Common Names: Dragon Tree, Drago, Dragon's Blood Tree

Plant Family: Asparagaceae

Plant Type: Evergreen Tree

Information is conflicting but caution is advised.
While not as notoriously toxic as some other Dracaena species, the ASPCA does not list it as non-toxic. The "dragon's blood" sap may also be a skin irritant. It is wise to prevent pets from ingesting any part of the plant.

As a large, leafy tree, I contribute to a healthier environment by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. My main value lies in my majestic form and drought tolerance, not specifically in indoor air purification.

Architectural Drama: My sculptural, palm-like form is a stunning focal point in any landscape.

Extreme Drought Tolerance: I am a perfect choice for water-wise gardens.

Long-Lived: I am a tree that can be passed down through generations, with some specimens estimated to be hundreds of years old.

Historical Significance: I am steeped in myth and history, valued for my unique resin.

Root Rot: This is the number one killer, caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil.

Mealybugs & Scale: Can occasionally be a problem, especially on stressed plants.

Leaf Tip Dieback: Can occur due to salt buildup in the soil or extreme drought stress.

Slow Growth: Be patient! I grow very slowly, often only a few inches per year.

I am an incredibly long-lived tree. With proper care in a suitable climate, I can grow for centuries, becoming a true legacy plant. My growth is measured in decades, not years.