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Dragon tree care

Dracaena reflexa var. angustifolia (in Thirsty: Dracaena marginata)

Thirsty’s starting schedule for Dragon tree: about every 10 days. Check the soil and adjust it to your home.

Watering

Water only once the top 5 cm (2 in) of potting mix feels dry, letting it dry between waterings but not severely. Soil kept wet, or a pot left standing in water, rots the roots. Distilled or non-fluoridated water avoids leaf damage from fluoride. [1][2]

Light

Bright, indirect light. Keep it out of direct summer sun, which can scorch the leaves. [1][2]

Humidity

Enjoys humid air; stand the pot on a tray of moist gravel, group plants together, and mist the leaves now and then. [2]

Soil and potting

A loose, fast-draining but moisture-retentive, acidic (ericaceous) potting mix. [1][2]

Pets

Toxic to cats and dogs. It can cause vomiting, depression, loss of appetite and drooling, and dilated pupils in cats. [3]

Sources

1. NC State Extension: Dracaena reflexa var. angustifolia
2. Royal Horticultural Society: How to grow dracaena
3. ASPCA: Madagascar Dragon Tree

This page summarizes the sources above; follow them for the full picture. Light, pot, soil and season all change how fast a plant dries out, so check the soil before you water. Last reviewed October 9, 2026.