My 25-year-old Madagascar

The official term is the "Dracaena Marginata," aka "Dragon Tree," one of the easiest, most durable houseplants to grow. I've had my Madagascar for 25 years and she has sired at least 10 other Dragon Tree's in that time frame.

Pruning the Madagascar, makes her thicker, fuller, and the 'trained' stems grow it varied directions. The stems are trained based on the way the Marginata is pruned.

The pictures to the right show the stages of rooting (yes, the stems can root in water) the Dracaena Marginata. In 2-3 weeks it start to root. This particular cutting remained in water for about 3 months. The goal was to keep it in water for an undetermined time but today, I decided to send the cutting home, back to its mother - my 25-year old Madagascar.

Caring For the Dracaena Marginata

The Madagascar dragon tree is one of the easiest house plants to grow and takes neglect on the chin - then recovers quickly once the correct conditions and care is provided.

If leaves start dying and coming away at the bottom of the plant, don't be concerned. This is natural and similar to how a yucca tree sheds it's bottom leaves for new growth. You can remove them once you see them deteriorating in look.

Dragon Tree Care

• Temperature: Average room temperatures are ideal between 65°- 75°F (18°- 24 °C) or more. Dragon Tree's will live through much colder temperatures during winter, but keeping them in optimal health requires the room to be no less than 50°F (10°C).


• Light: Bright conditions with shade is suitable for the dragon plant. Direct sunlight will damage the leaves.


• Watering: Keeping the soil slightly moist is the best indicator of correct watering. During the winter, like most plants they need much less.


• Soil: Use an all purpose potting mix.


• Re-Potting: These can be re-potted every two years during spring or later if needed.


• Humidity: Normal household humidity is fine and misting the leaves is advised. They do like fresh air during the summer from a window open, and do not like stuffy hot rooms from central heating systems.


• Propagation: Cutting and re-planting stem cuttings a couple of inches long is an easy method used. Apply root hormones and give it a few weeks for them to begin rooting.


• Pruning: You can remove old leaves that are ready to fall from the bottom of the trunk which will make it look more attractive. And, cut back stems to keep the plant to the size you want.