Dragon tree guide
Dracaena marginata, also called Madagascar dragon tree, red-edged dracaena, Dracaena reflexa var. angustifolia
Published 2026-11-08
Quick care
- Light
- Bright indirect
- Water
- When the top 5 cm (2 in) of soil is dry
- Humidity
- Average room air is fine
- Temperature
- 16 to 27°C (60 to 80°F). Keep above 13°C (55°F).
- Soil
- Well-draining houseplant mix
- Feeding
- Half-strength fertilizer monthly in spring and summer
- Pets
- Toxic to cats and dogs. Causes vomiting and, in cats, dilated pupils.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Mature size
- 1.5 to 2.5 m (5 to 8 ft) tall indoors
- Propagation
- Top cuttings or cane pieces, rooted in water or soil
- Where to buy
- Common
This page covers what makes dragon tree different. For light, water, soil, pests, and the rest, read the dracaena care guide.
What it is
Dragon tree has thin, stiff, sword-like leaves edged in red, in tufts on top of slim, woody canes. The canes often twist or bend. It is one of the most common indoor trees. Botanists now list it as a variety of Dracaena reflexa, but it is still sold as Dracaena marginata.
How to tell it apart
| Plant | Leaves | The tell |
|---|---|---|
| Dragon tree | Thin, stiff, red edges | Narrow leaves in tufts on bare canes |
| ‘Tricolor’ dragon tree | Thin, green, cream, and red stripes | Cream stripes along with red |
| Ponytail palm | Long, thin, curly, no red | Swollen base and soft, drooping leaves |
Care differences
Dragon tree handles more light than corn plant. Bright indirect light keeps the red edges sharp. It is sensitive to fluoride in tap water. Brown tips are the sign.
Shaping the canes
Cut a tall cane at any height in spring. Two or three new tufts sprout below the cut. Root the top you cut off in water or moist soil.
Buying it
Dragon tree is common at garden centers and big box stores. Look for full, upright tufts. Many brown tips or bare canes with tiny tufts point to stress.