Houseplants
Dragon Tree
Dracaena marginata
A spiky little palm-lookalike that quietly forgives you for weeks at a time.
- Typical watering
- Every ~12 days
- Light
- medium to bright indirect
- Difficulty
- easy
- Safety
- Toxic to cats and dogs
Care tips
- Water when the top half of the pot is dry
- Use filtered water if tips brown - it is fluoride sensitive
- Trim brown tips with clean scissors, following the leaf shape
- Keep between 18-27°C year round
Common questions
How often should I water a dragon tree? +
A healthy indoor dragon tree typically wants water every 12 days or so. Treat that as a starting cadence, not a rule — pot size, light, and season all shift it, so check the soil before you pour.
How much light does a dragon tree need? +
A dragon tree does best in medium to bright indirect light. If it stretches, fades, or stalls, adjust its spot before changing anything else.
Is a dragon tree toxic to cats or dogs? +
Yes — the dragon tree is considered toxic to cats and dogs (per the ASPCA plant lists). Keep it out of reach, and call your vet if you suspect a pet has chewed it.
Typical guidance for a healthy dragon tree — your own conditions (and your vet, for animals) come first.
Related guides
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