Dracaena Marginata Tricolor

The tricolor Madagascar dragon tree (Dracaena marginata “Tricolor”) features long, strap-like leaves and a tall trunk. It grows upward, with the whorl of leaves remaining near the top of the trunk, although you can prune it so it branches and produces multiple leaf sets. Each leaf has cream, red and green stripes, making it colorful although it doesn’t flower. Dragon trees grow in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 10 through 12, but they are most often used as houseplants because they tolerate interior conditions so well.

1. 1. 1.

      Grow dragon trees in well-drained soil in a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight, or direct morning sun and afternoon shade. Choose a frost-free location where nighttime temperatures stay above 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

1. 2.

   Water the plant when the top of the soil feels dry. Irrigate with lukewarm fluoride-free water, such as distilled water, until the excess drains from the bottom of the pot. Empty the drip tray beneath the pot 30 minutes after watering.

2. 3.

   Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of a foliage plant fertilizer, such as a soluble 24-8-16 blend, in 1 gallon of lukewarm, fluoride-free water. Water the dragon tree with the solution once monthly during spring and summer.

3. 4.

   Cut back the main stem of the dragon tree if the trunk becomes too tall. Trim back to the desired height, using a small pruning saw or sharp bypass shears. The bare trunk will develop two or more side branches and new foliage just beneath the cut. Dragon trees can grow for several years without pruning if size isn’t a concern.

4. 5.

   Monitor the dragon tree for spider mites, which primarily feed on the underside of the foliage. Set the plant outside, and rinse the leaves with a sharp spray of water to dislodge the pests and wash them away.