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Lucky bamboo care

Dracaena sanderiana

Thirsty’s starting schedule for Lucky bamboo: about every 7 days. Check the soil and adjust it to your home.

Watering

In water, keep the roots and at least an inch of stem covered, use chlorine-free water and change it weekly. In soil, water when the top inch is dry, let it drain fully and empty the saucer; overwatering can yellow the leaves and rot the stems. [1][2]

Light

Bright, indirect light; direct sun browns the leaves. [1][2]

Humidity

Low humidity can brown the leaf tips. [2]

Soil and potting

It can live in water alone, or in a moist, well-drained potting soil made for indoor or tropical plants. [1][2]

Pets

Toxic to cats and dogs; dracaenas can cause vomiting, drooling and depression if eaten. [3][2][1]

Sources

1. Clemson Cooperative Extension, Home & Garden Information Center: How To Grow and Care for Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena Sanderiana)
2. NC State Extension: Dracaena sanderiana (Chinese Water Bamboo, Friendship Bamboo, Lucky Bamboo, Ribbon Plant, Water Bamboo)
3. ASPCA: Toxic and Non-toxic Plants: Ribbon Plant

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.