This particular specimen was observed by Alexander von Humboldt, the famous German explorer, as being 21m tall and 14 m in circumference and he estimated its age to be 6000 years old. It was valued so much on the island that The Guanches (the Aboriginal inhabitants of the Canary Islands) worshipped one of the larger trees on the island and even hollowed out its trunk to create a small sanctuary inside. The Dragon Tree is the Natural Symbol of the island of Tenerife. Old flower stalks can also be cleared away by cutting a few centimetres above where the stalk emerges – take care not to damage any new buds nearby, as these are the developing new branches. No pruning is required but as the older leaves die off they form a ‘skirt’ around the trunk which can be removed. It is noted that Dracaena draco thrives when slightly pot-bound. This will ensure they don’t get blown over and damaged. Take care that container-grown trees do not become too top-heavy by repotting them into a larger container every year or two. Well-fed plants can develop a reddish tinge to the leaves. Pot-grown Dragon Trees should be fed with a controlled/slow-release fertiliser every 6-8 months. But, as mentioned earlier, do not allow the soil to become waterlogged as this will cause the roots to rot. Minimal ongoing care and maintenance are required as the Dragon Trees are generally pest and disease-free and, being drought tolerant when planted in the ground should not require any watering.įor container-grown plants, water regularly to keep the soil moist. It is drought-tolerant once established and is also considered to be salt tolerant. 5-10C is considered a minimum safe temperature. These practices will help to aid drainage and prevent root rot.Īlthough Draco is one of the hardier species of Dracaena it can only tolerate low temperatures (such as a slight frost) for a short period of time. ![]() In a pot, incorporate the sand or gravel into the potting mix and raise the pot slightly off the ground so that the water can run freely away from the base. When planting in the ground, sand or gravel can be added to the planting hole if the natural soil is heavy. The only requirement to be aware of is that it does not like to have its roots set in water, therefore good drainage is essential. The Dragon Tree is not fussy when it comes to soil conditions so it can be planted in any loose, well-drained soil. A sheltered spot, away from harsh winds, is preferred but not essential. It prefers a bright planting position in full sun or part shade and can be grown either in the ground or in a planter. It also makes a great house or office plant due to its tolerance to lower light levels. Single-crown trees look fantastic when planted in groups but they will become multi-headed as they age. ![]() The multi-headed specimens make excellent feature trees in a dry or water-wise garden scheme or, as a centrepiece in a courtyard or patio area. When choosing a site for your Dragon Tree it is important to bear in mind that it is a long-living tree that, when grown in the best conditions, can reach 10-12 metres in height. Whatever the look you are after, we are always happy to assist with the thoughtful design of your landscape. Single-crown trees look fantastic when planted in groups – a small forest of Dragon Trees – whereas multi-headed specimens make excellent standalone feature trees. We have one of the largest ranges of Dragon Trees in Australia with a mixture of single or multi-crown specimens available at various sizes and ages. They make an excellent alternative to Palm Trees. Tall, clear trunks are topped with shaggy, rounded heads of long, sword-shaped leaves which add wonderful elements of sound, movement and texture to the garden. When grown in perfect conditions the Dragon Tree can grow to around 10-12 metres in height with a spread of up to 4 metres. Unfortunately, it has become a threatened species in the wild. ![]() It is so valued in Tenerife that it has been chosen as the Natural Symbol of the island. The Dragon Tree is a sub-tropical plant native to the Canary Islands, Cape Verde, Madeira and Western Morocco. It is more, cold tolerant than other Dracaena species so will happily grow in cooler as well as warmer climates, due to its tolerance of lower light levels, it can also make a stunning house or office plant- a real eye-catcher! Dracaena draco, The Dragon Tree is a wonderful specimen tree that is hugely popular with landscapers because of its naturally strong architectural features.īeing evergreen, drought tolerant and able to live for hundreds of years it is a popular choice of feature plant in homes and gardens across Australia.
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