Dracaena cinnabari
A slow-growing, tropical evergreen tree, reaching up to 10m in its native range but usually smaller in cultivation. Mature plants have a thick trunk and branching stems tipped with clusters of narrow, strap-shaped leaves, which form a dense, umbrella-shaped canopy. Clusters of small, greenish-white flowers are produced in early spring, followed by round green berries that ripen to orange
Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metresTime to ultimate height
20–50 yearsUltimate spread
4–8 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | Green Orange | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H1BBotanical details
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Columnar upright, Spreading branched
- Genus
Dracaena are evergreen trees, the few branches bearing linear to lance-shaped leaves often crowded towards the tips; on mature plants, small greenish-white flowers may be followed by orange or red berries
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in a free-draining, gritty potting mix, in full sun. Though sometimes used in landscaping in warmer regions, it will not tolerate frost and in the UK is best grown in a greenhouse or in containers that can be moved indoors over winter. Water moderately in the growing season, preferably with rainwater, and apply a balanced liquid feed monthly. Keep almost dry in winter. See Dracaena for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by seed, sown at 18-20°C in spring, or by semi-ripe cuttings in late spring to early summer. Allow cuttings to callus before inserting into growing media, bottom heat may be required for rooting
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- Patio and container plants
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to scale insects, glasshouse red spider mite, thrips and mealybugs
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.