Song of India
dracaena reflexa
Also known as: ["Pleomele reflexa","Song of India"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen shrub with attractive, variegated foliage arranged in a spiral pattern along the stems.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","air purifying","low maintenance","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Genus: | Dracaena |
| Botanical Name: | Dracaena reflexa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright room
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 weeks
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with peat, perlite, and organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates lower light but may grow slower.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to brighter light gradually; protect from direct sun to prevent leaf burn; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
bright indirect light
Rotate plant monthly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days
Allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering; ensure proper drainage.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–80°F (18–27°C); prefers stable temperatures, avoiding drafts or extreme fluctuations.
Avoid placing near heating/cooling vents; maintain stable temperatures; monitor for signs of stress.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Never fertilize dry soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust frequency based on growth rate.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with leaf nodes; air layering for larger stems.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut below node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss, or water propagation.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bag or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud; use clean, sharp tools to avoid damage.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth, yellow leaves, and spent stems to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut at correct angle; remove dead/damaged growth; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary if growth slows or soil degrades.
Checklist
Choose right pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply until it drains from the bottom, ensuring root zone saturation; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; aerate with a fork if compacted.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth due to cold stress; wilting or scorching from excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root rot if soil remains cold and wet.
Solution: Move plant away from cold drafts; ensure room temperature stays above 50°F (10°C); reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; soil dries out faster, increasing water stress.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or pebble trays; water more frequently but avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to saponins found in Dracaena reflexa, which can cause significant gastrointestinal distress and potential liver toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Dracaena reflexa can lead to more severe gastrointestinal upset and potential liver damage due to the presence of saponins.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicDracaena reflexa contains saponins, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's sap may also cause skin irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Dracaena reflexa toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Dracaena reflexa?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 1-2 weeks.
Q: Does Dracaena reflexa need direct sunlight?
A: No, it prefers bright, indirect light and can tolerate some shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days |
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