Janet Craig Dracaena
dracaena angustifolia
Also known as: ["Dracaena deremensis 'Janet Craig'"]
Overview
A popular ornamental plant with glossy, dark green leaves and a bushy growth habit.
Benefits & Perks
["air purifying","low maintenance","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Genus: | Dracaena |
| Botanical Name: | Dracaena angustifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or shaded outdoor area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days if indoor air is dry, otherwise rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
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; avoid direct sun to prevent leaf burn; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright indirect light, tolerates partial shade
Rotate plant monthly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sunlight; avoid drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; use room temperature water.
Soil
well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates 50–90°F (10–32°C) but avoids extremes.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; use a humidifier in dry conditions; monitor room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall/winter; apply after watering.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Cut a healthy stem.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Maintain moisture.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional changes.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pot, soil or water.
Quick Tips
Use a healthy stem; keep consistently moist; provide warmth for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or junction.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and encourage new growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; cut at an angle; remove yellow/brown leaves; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
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; use fresh soil to refresh nutrients.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; 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 even moisture but not waterlogging; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
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 coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold), brown leaf tips (heat), stunted growth, or leaf drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, and reduce watering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown spots; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and water more frequently during heatwaves.
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); avoid winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to the saponins in Dracaena angustifolia, which can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and potential liver failure. The toxic effects can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Dracaena angustifolia can lead to significant gastrointestinal upset and potential liver damage due to the presence of saponins. The toxic effects can be more pronounced in smaller breeds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicDracaena angustifolia contains saponins, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Dracaena angustifolia toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Dracaena angustifolia?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, typically every 1-2 weeks.
Q: Does Dracaena angustifolia purify air?
A: Yes, it is known to remove certain toxins from indoor air.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light, tolerat |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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