Dracaena marginata 'Bicolor' (v)

RHS Plant Profile
Madagascar dragon tree 'Bicolor'

Synonyms

Dracaena 'Bicolor'

Conservatory Greenhouse Houseplants Shrubs

A palm-like shrub, usually grown as a houseplant, with an upright stem terminating in two or more branches. These bear dense clusters of long, very narrow leaves in dark green edged with cream with a fine red margin

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Loam

Max Height

2.5-4 metres

Max Spread

1.5-2.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
10–20 years
Max Spread
1.5-2.5 metres
Max Height
2.5-4 metres

Growing Conditions

Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H1B

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Asparagaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy, Columnar upright
Potentially harmful
Pets (dogs, cats, rabbits, rodents): Harmful if eaten. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
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
Unresolved

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in peat-free, loam-based potting compost with moderate humidity and good light, but shaded from hot sun. See Dracaena and houseplant cultivation for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by removing whole tops and rooting with bottom heat. Can also root leafless sections of stem

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Patio and container plants
  • Sub-tropical

Pruning

No pruning required, but can cut back stems to reduce size or encourage stronger growth

Pests

Glasshouse red spider mite and scale insects can be a problem

Diseases

Generally disease-free