Madagascar dragon tree Dracaena marginata

Names

• Family

  Asparagaceae

• Synonyms

  Dragon plant, Song of India, Song of Jamaica

• Common names

  Dracaena reflexa, Lomatophyllum reflexum, Cordyline reflexa, Draco reflexa, Pleomele reflexa, Dracaena reflexa var. angustifolia

Toxicity

• To humans

  In fact, Dragon plant can be classified as poisonous, even if slightly poisonous. It contains so-called saponins in all parts of the plant. These plant substances are harmless, but in this concentration present in Dragon plant, consumption can have health consequences.
  The consequences can be nausea and vomiting, to the decomposition of vital red blood cells. 
  But it can happen only if you ingest Dragon plant in really large quantities, which is unlikely. Therefore, keep the plant out of the reach of children.

• To pets

  According to ASPCA, Dragon plant is on the list of poisonous plants for dogs, cats and horses. 
  All parts of the plant contain so-called saponins, which are harmful to animals.
  Symptoms of poisoning in pets may include vomiting, sometimes with blood, depression, anorexia, hyper-salivation, dilated pupils (cats only).

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Evergreen

• Color of leaves

  Green with red borders

• Flower color

  White

• Height

  Up to 16 feet

• Spread

  Up to 8 feet

• Plant type

  Shrub

• Hardiness zones

  8

• Native area

  Madagascar

General Benefits

The fruit of the Drkona tree is food for the Black-and-white ruffed lemur;
A great indoor plant that clears the air;
Increases air humidity;
A very ornamental plant;
Does not need much care;
Dracaena is an excellent absorber of lead.

Medical Properties

In traditional medicine of Madagascar, Dracaena marginata is used to treat malaria, poisoning and fever.
But, this plant is considered to be poisonous, so it is not recommended to use it for treatment without consulting your doctor.

Air-purifying Qualities

Dracaena marginata removes VOCs and toxic gasses. Also, it can reduce indoor air pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, trichloroethylene and carbon dioxide.

Other Uses

• Dracaena marginata branches can be used in the practice of ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arrangement, providing a striking vertical element.
• The flexible, sturdy stems of the Dracaena marginata can be crafted into small, decorative walking sticks or cane handles.
• In creative photography, the dramatic silhouette and striking leaves of the Dracaena marginata can be used as a compelling subject or backdrop.
• The plant can be used in educational settings to teach principles of pruning and plant care, due to its resilience and responsiveness to trimming.
• Leaves from the Dracaena marginata can be used in art projects, such as leaf printing or stamping, to create unique patterns and designs.
• The plant's ability to grow under artificial light makes it suitable for use in interior design projects in low natural light environments like malls and offices.
• As a natural privacy screen, taller specimens can be placed in strategic locations in homes or offices to create secluded areas or block unsightly views.
• Dracaena marginata can be used in themed gardens or displays that simulate tropical or exotic environments, adding to the visual diversity of the setting.
• For hobbyists interested in plant propagation, the Dracaena marginata provides an easy-to-root species for experiments in water or soil propagation techniques.
• In classrooms or as a home school project, the Dracaena marginata can serve as a living example to discuss plant biology, including photosynthesis and the water cycle.

Feng Shui

Because of the plant’s ability to reach a considerable height without going overboard, it is a very suitable plant to place on corners and blades in the house to counter Sha Chi.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

SCORPIO
Scorpios are often misunderstood because of their passionate, direct and overbearing nature. However, Scorpios are also ambitious, empathetic and committed to their relationships.
Dracenas are Scorpios in plant form. They will tell you exactly what they want with the change in color of their leaves, and Scorpios will love their directness.

Plant Symbolism

This plant brings good luck: it symbolizes perseverance and knowledge of one's inner world.