Dracaena is a native African plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors. Dracaena is commonly found in tropical and sub-tropical regions of Asia and Central America. Dracaena is believed to be related to the family of lilies and is quite popular. Genus Sanseviera which is closely related to Dracaena has been classified under Dracaena in Kubitzki system. Dracaena is usually grown for their unique foliage and colorful looks. It is difficult to find a Dracaena with flowers as flowers never bloom on the plant. Outdoor Dracaena plants are easy to grow as they are tolerant to extreme weather conditions.

Dracaena can be classified into 2 groups based on the growth habit of the plant. The characteristics of first group of Dracaena are that they grow in arid desert and semi-desert areas and have stiff broad leaves and stout trunks. This group of Dracaena is commonly known as dragon trees. The second group of Dracaena are known as shrubby Dracaena, and is usually grown indoors. Some important characteristics of shrubby Dracaena include slender stems and flexible leaves.

Dracaena does not have many medical uses but is a popular indoor house plant. The stem cutting of the Sanderiana species of Dracaena can be found in many stores in United Stated and is marketed as “Lucky Bamboo”. However, some use the red resin known as dragon’s blood which is produced from Draco and Cinnabari species of Dracaena for medical purpose.

If you are planning to grow Dracaena indoors, then you need to take care of the plant. Here are a few tips which will help in maintaining your indoor Dracaena. Indoor Dracaena requires moderate sunlight and you must keep them away from direct sunlight. It is recommended that you place the indoor Dracaena on the eastern window which is covered by a curtain which keeps the plant from direct sunlight. If you don’t have an eastern window you can also place the Dracaena in the west or south window. Avoid keeping the Dracaena in an area which is cold as temperatures above 75 degrees Fahrenheit and below 65 degree Fahrenheit can stunt the plant growth. At times extreme temperatures may cause death of the plant. Dracaena requires humid soil to grow, so place some pebbles under the Dracaena to increase the humidity of the soil. You can also Mist the plant once a week with soft water as it helps in the growth of the plant. However, it is important that you don’t over water the plant. The leaves of Dracaena plant will turn brown it you give the plant too much water. It will be prudent on your part to allow the soil to dry before you water them again. If the top soil of Dracaena plant is dry then it is time that you want to water the plant. If the leaves of the Dracaena turn brown then it is best that you remove the leaves. However if only a part of the leaf needs to be removed, try to trim the brown portion and try to maintain the original shape of the leaf.

Dracaena can be an excellent indoor plant provided you take care of the plant.