Dracaena reflexa 'Variegata' (Variegated Song of India)

Botanical Information

FamilyAsparagaceae
GenusDracaena
Speciesreflexa
Cultivar'Variegata'
SynonymsPleomele reflexa
CategoryTropicals
TypeTree (evergreen), Shrub (evergreen)
OriginMadagascar, Mauritius and some additional nearby islands in the Indian Ocean.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone12a - 12b
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness ZoneRequires cool season protection under glass.
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH1b
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)10 - 15
Temperature (°F)50 - 60
Height4 - 6 m
Spread1 - 3 m
GrowthMedium

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionPalm-like erect evergreen shrub.
ID CharacteristicSword shaped green leaves that are margined white.
LandscapeGrown outdoors as patio and container plants. Gown indoors as ornamental plants in homes, offices, shopping malls and hotels in many parts of the world.
PropagationSemi-hardwood cuttings or leafless stem sections.
CultivationGrows best in partial to full shade with loamy, peaty, well-drained potting soil. Keep soils uniformly moist but not wet. Leaf tips and margins may brown if soils become too wet or too dry. For best results, site plants in areas with bright indirect light. Plants should be protected from direct sun.
PestsSpider mites, scale and mealy bugs. Root rot may occur if soils are poorly drained or over watered.
Notable SpecimensCentennial Conservatory, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada.
Leaf DescriptionNarrow, lanceolate to elliptic, growing to 10 - 15 cm with parallel veins.
Flower DescriptionTiny flowers grow in clusters.
Colour DescriptionLeaves are deep green with yellow-lime green margins when young, maturing over time to a lighter green with creamy margins. Flowers are white. Berries are orange-red.

Photographs