Dracaena Draco

• Native to the Canary Islands, Dracaena Draco is one of the world's most ancient tree species, with some specimens living over 1000 years. It's often called the Dragon Tree due to its red resin.
• Develops a distinctive branching pattern after flowering, creating an umbrella-like canopy that becomes more dramatic with age. Young plants have a single trunk with a rosette of leaves.
• Extremely drought tolerant once established and can survive on minimal water, making it perfect for Australian xerophytic gardens. The thick trunk stores water like a succulent.
• Produces fragrant cream-white flowers in large clusters followed by bright orange berries, though flowering typically occurs only on mature plants over 10-15 years old.

• Water every 1-2 weeks during growing season, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings - reduce to monthly in winter. Check soil moisture with finger test.
• Position in bright, filtered light indoors or morning sun with afternoon shade outdoors. Avoid harsh midday sun which burns leaves.
• Use well-draining potting mix or sandy loam soil with excellent drainage. Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage if needed.
• Feed monthly with balanced liquid fertiliser from spring to early autumn. Dilute to half strength to avoid burning roots.
• Prune only damaged or dead leaves by cutting close to trunk with clean, sharp tools. Remove flower stalks after blooming if desired.
• Maintain humidity around 40-50% indoors and ensure good air circulation. Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 10°C.
• Repot every 2-3 years in spring using slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining mix.

• Provide bright, indirect light indoors or dappled shade outdoors - avoid harsh direct sun which can scorch leaves. Morning sun with afternoon shade works well.
• Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry out between waterings - typically every 1-2 weeks in growing season. Reduce watering in winter months.
• Maintain moderate humidity levels around 40-50% and protect from cold drafts. Mist occasionally but avoid water sitting in leaf crowns.
• Prefers temperatures between 18-24°C and can tolerate brief drops to 10°C. Protect from frost in cooler Australian regions.
• Feed monthly with balanced liquid fertiliser during spring and summer growing season. Reduce feeding in autumn and winter.

• Scale insects and mealybugs can attack leaves and stems - treat with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. Check regularly under leaves and in leaf joints.
• Overwatering causes root rot and yellowing leaves - ensure excellent drainage and reduce watering frequency. Allow soil to dry between waterings.
• Brown leaf tips indicate low humidity or fluoride in tap water - use rainwater or filtered water when possible. Increase humidity around the plant.
• Fungal leaf spot appears as brown patches - improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Remove affected leaves promptly.