Dracaena reflexa var. angustifolia – Elegant, Easy-Care Tropical Statement

Often sold under the trade name Dracaena marginata, Dracaena reflexa var. angustifolia is a Madagascan native known for its slender canes and spiky, narrow leaves edged in deep red or burgundy. Its upright, architectural form makes it a striking focal point for modern interiors. As a slow-growing, drought-tolerant species, it's ideal for plant lovers seeking a low-effort, high-impact plant.

● Visual Appeal of Dracaena reflexa var. angustifolia

This variety grows on woody stems, forming tufts of thin, sword-shaped leaves at the top of each cane. Leaf margins vary from solid green to reddish-purple depending on the cultivar. Its vertical growth habit makes it a good fit for corners and narrow spaces.

● Where Dracaena reflexa var. angustifolia Comes From

Native to Madagascar and nearby Indian Ocean islands, this variety of Dracaena reflexa typically grows in open forests and scrublands. It is a terrestrial species, not epiphytic, and thrives in bright but filtered light under tree canopies.

● How to Care for Dracaena reflexa var. angustifolia Indoors

Light

Prefers bright, indirect light but tolerates moderate shade.
Direct sun may cause leaf scorch over time.

Water

Water when the top top 15 – 20 % of soil is dry to the touch.
Use pots with drainage holes to avoid root rot.

Humidity and Temperature

Average room humidity is sufficient; avoid extremely dry air.
Optimal range: 18 – 26 °C. Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 15 °C.

Soil and Repotting

Use a well-aerated mix with perlite or pumice for drainage.
Repot when roots fill the container — typically every 2 – 3 years.

Fertilization

Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4 – 6 weeks with regular watering.
No need to adjust fertilization seasonally unless light levels drop significantly.

Propagation

Best propagated via stem cuttings; allow the cut end to dry before rooting.
Can root in water, soil, or LECA under warm, humid conditions.

Hydroponic Compatibility

Adaptable to semi-hydroponic systems like LECA or pon.
Rinse roots thoroughly before transitioning from soil.

Pruning Tips

Prune canes to control height and encourage branching.
Remove yellowing or dry leaves as needed.

● Growth Habits and Long-Term Potential

Size and Speed

Slow to moderate grower; can reach up to 2 – 3 meters indoors over several years.

Adaptability

Highly tolerant of dry air, irregular watering, and variable conditions.

● Toxicity, Water Sensitivity and More

Toxicity Warning

Contains saponins — mildly toxic if ingested by cats or dogs.
Symptoms: vomiting, drooling, and inappetence. Keep out of reach of pets.

Fluoride Sensitivity

May develop brown tips when exposed to fluoride in tap water.
Use rainwater, distilled, or filtered water if possible.

Seasonal Dormancy

Growth may slow in winter if light levels drop.
Reduce watering only if plant is clearly not drying out between waterings.

● Common Issues and Real Fixes

Yellow Leaves

Usually a sign of overwatering or poor drainage. Let soil dry more between waterings.

Crispy Tips

Low humidity or mineral build-up from tap water are common causes.
Flush the soil occasionally and increase ambient moisture.

Drooping Canes

Often due to dehydration or sudden environmental changes.
Ensure stable light, temperature, and watering rhythm.

Pest Management

Watch for spider mites, mealybugs, thrips, and scale insects.
Use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or beneficial insects to control infestations.

● FAQs – Dracaena reflexa var. angustifolia in Practice

Is Dracaena marginata the same as Dracaena reflexa?

Dracaena marginata is a commercial name for Dracaena reflexa var. angustifolia. Botanically, it’s a variety of the species D. reflexa.

Can it live in low light?

Yes, it can survive in moderate shade but thrives in filtered bright light.

Can I grow it in water only?

It can root in water and stay there for a while, but long-term growth is better in semi-hydro or soil-based setups.

● Bring Dracaena reflexa var. angustifolia Into Your Space

Want a tall, sculptural houseplant that thrives on minimal care? Order your Dracaena reflexa var. angustifolia today and add timeless elegance to your indoor jungle.

Dracaena reflexa var. angustifolia

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Dracaena reflexa var. angustifolia comes in following sizes:

M – is approximately 80 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 17 cm pot

XL – is approximately 120 cm tall and comes in a ⌀ 21 cm pot
Name: Dracaena reflexa var. angustifolia (synonym: Dracaena marginata)

Common Names: Dragon Tree, Madagascar Dragon Tree, Red Edge Dracaena, Indoor Dragon Tree.

Type: Evergreen shrub, popular houseplant for indoor greenery.

Family: Asparagaceae; known for low-maintenance houseplants.

Native Range: Madagascar, Mauritius; tropical origins make it a great indoor plant.

Zone: USDA Hardiness Zone 10-12; thrives as an indoor plant in most temperate regions.

Habitat: Naturally found in tropical climates; prefers warm, consistent indoor temperatures.

Humidity: Moderate; suitable for typical indoor humidity without extra effort.

Light: Prefers bright, indirect light; grows well in partial shade but flourishes with proper lighting.

Temperature: Ideal range 18-24°C; avoid temperatures below 10°C for best health.

Soil: Use well-draining potting soil mixed with perlite or sand; needs aeration for root health.

Watering: Let the top 2-3 cm of soil dry before watering; prevent waterlogging to avoid root rot.

Pruning and Maintenance: Prune to shape, control height, and promote bushier growth; remove yellow or damaged leaves regularly.

Foliage: Long, narrow leaves with striking red or purplish edges; green or variegated varieties available.

Growth Rate: Moderate growth; reaches up to 15-30 cm per year under optimal indoor conditions.

Root Structure and Repotting: Shallow root system; repot every 2-3 years or when visibly root-bound.

Fertilizing: Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during active growth periods.

Tolerance: Tolerates low light and occasional drought; avoid fluoride-rich water for best results.

Propagation: Propagate with stem cuttings; let cuttings dry before planting in water or soil.

Common Pests: Susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, thrips, and scale insects; monitor and treat as needed.

Fungal Issues: Overwatering can lead to root rot; fungal leaf spots possible in high humidity.

Flowering: Rare indoors; when flowering, produces small, fragrant white or yellowish flowers.

Longevity: Can live for decades indoors with consistent and appropriate care.

Toxicity: Toxic to pets; contains saponins that cause vomiting and lethargy if ingested.

Ideal Placement: Best in bright, indirect light; keep away from cold drafts and direct sunlight to maintain health.

Special Care: Use distilled or rainwater to avoid fluoride toxicity; prevents browning of leaf tips.
🌿 Dracaena and Sansevieria Care and Insights

🌱 Learn all about Dracaena (including Sansevieria) and their care on our Dracaena Varieties and Genus Info page in the Genera Information Catalogue.

📚 For additional tips and expert advice, explore our Blog featuring plant care FAQs, interesting plant facts, and comprehensive care guidance.
Plant Care Help – Start Here

Plant Care After Purchase – Unpacking, first placement, and the crucial first week.

Acclimatization – What plants go through after shipping and how to support recovery.

Light – Practical light principles for predictable indoor growth.

Watering – Frequency, volume, and signs of over- vs. underwatering.

Substrates – Mix structure, particle size, and drainage for strong roots.

Humidity – Managing ambient moisture indoors without gimmicks.

Fertilizing – Nutrients, EC, and how to avoid salt stress.

Semi-Hydro – Inert/mineral substrates, wicks, and reservoir management.

Pest Control – Identification, treatment cycles, and prevention that works.
Please Note:

Curated Selection: Every plant is hand-picked for quality and visual appeal, ensuring you receive a healthy, well-established specimen.

Representative Image: Product photos serve as reference. Each plant is unique — differences in leaf number, shape, or variegation are natural.

Size Details: Sizes refer to pot diameter and overall height (from the base of the pot to the tallest leaf or stem).

Specific Listings: If a product is a ‘Get What You See’ item, this will be stated clearly in the size section.

Individual Photos: Photos of single plants are not available unless explicitly mentioned in the size section. For details on each plant’s unique traits or minor quirks, please read the full product description.