How To Make Your Plants Happy: Madagascar Dragon Tree Care Guide

Light

Ideal lighting is bright, indirect light but can also survive in lower light areas. The lower the light the lower the growth rate, which may create smaller leaves. Keep out of direct sunlight to avoid the leaves from burning.        

Water

Water when the topsoil is dry, about every 10 days. Only water when the top 50% of the soil is dry as overwatering can cause root rot. Reduce watering in winter.       

Environment

Prefers warmer climates of around 70°F - 80°F but any comfortable room temperature is fine. Normal household humidity is fine but misting if your air is dry is advised. This plant likes fresh air so consider putting near an open window opposed to a stuffy room.        

Growth

This plant is a slow grower and can grow up to 8' tall indoors but are seen to grow up to 70' tall in nature. It is not a heavy feeder but fertilizer monthly plant food in the spring and summer, it prefers a well-balanced fertilizer diluted to 1/2 the recommended strength. Do not feed in the fall or winter.

Repotting

This plant can be repotted any time of year, but late spring is best. It does not need to be repotted often as it can grow quite tall with a small rootball. Only repot every 2 years at most to give the plant fresh, nutritious soil. Use a well-draining soil when repotting.

Propagating

The dragon tree can be propagated through stem cuttings. Use clean scissors to cut off a branch from your tree. Place the cutting in water and give it bright, indirect light. The cutting will start to root within about 3 weeks and you can transfer it to fresh potting soil. 

Toxicity

Extremely poisonous to cats and dogs if ingested.