Dracaena Massangeana

• Native to tropical Africa, this striking foliage plant belongs to the dragon tree family and can live for decades with proper care
• Features thick, cane-like stems topped with rosettes of sword-shaped leaves marked with golden-yellow stripes down the centre
• Grows slowly but steadily, reaching 1.5-2 metres indoors, making it perfect for creating dramatic vertical interest in large spaces
• Prized by interior designers for its architectural form and ability to purify indoor air by removing common household toxins
• Occasionally produces fragrant, small white flowers on mature plants, though this rarely occurs indoors in Australian conditions

• Water when top 2-3cm of soil is dry, typically weekly in summer and fortnightly in winter, ensuring good drainage
• Position in bright, indirect light away from direct sun - east or north-facing windows work perfectly in Australian homes
• Use premium potting mix with good drainage and perlite to prevent waterlogging and root rot
• Feed monthly during spring and summer with liquid fertiliser diluted to half strength, stopping in autumn and winter
• Prune yellowing lower leaves and trim brown tips with clean scissors, cutting at an angle to maintain natural appearance
• Maintain humidity with regular misting or humidity trays, especially important during dry Australian winter months indoors
• Repot every 2-3 years in spring when roots become pot-bound, choosing a pot only slightly larger than current size

• Place in bright, indirect light near east or north-facing windows - avoid direct sunlight which scorches the distinctive striped foliage
• Water when top 2-3cm of soil feels dry, typically weekly in summer and fortnightly in winter - ensure excess water drains completely
• Maintain humidity levels of 40-50% by grouping with other plants or using a humidity tray, especially during dry Australian winters
• Keep temperatures between 18-26°C year-round and protect from cold drafts and air conditioning vents
• Reduce watering frequency in winter when growth slows and avoid fertilising during the cooler months

• Scale insects appear as small brown bumps on leaves and stems, causing yellowing - wipe with rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap weekly until eliminated
• Spider mites create fine webbing and stippled leaves in dry conditions - increase humidity and spray with neem oil every few days
• Brown leaf tips indicate overwatering, underwatering, or fluoride in tap water - adjust watering schedule and use filtered water
• Root rot from waterlogged soil causes musty smell and black roots - repot immediately in fresh, well-draining potting mix
• Fungal leaf spots appear as brown patches with yellow halos - remove affected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant