Dracaena pinguicula image • Photo: Author Scott Zona• CC BY 2.0↗
Dracaena pinguicula is a short, erect succulent resembling a dwarf agave with blue-green leaves covered in a thick waxy cuticle. Its leaves are lunate in cross-section, 12-30 cm long, 2.8-3.5 cm thick, featuring reddish-brown margins and a central channel that develops longitudinal grooves in dry conditions. The plant's most distinctive feature is its aerial stolons that produce elevated plantlets on stilt-like roots, creating the appearance of 'walking' away from the parent plant. Mature specimens develop thick brown succulent roots that survive drought by entering dormancy while sacrificing fine absorption roots.
Plant Care Overview
Care Guide
Essential requirements for your Dracaena pinguicula
Light Requirements
Bright indirect light to direct sunlight; tolerates low light but may etiolate
Light conditions can affect leaf color and growth rate. Adjust placement as needed based on your plant's response.
Watering Schedule
Infrequent; allow soil to dry completely between waterings
Humidity Needs
low humidity
Always check soil moisture before watering. Adjust frequency based on your home's conditions.
Temperature Range
Daytime 25-35°C (77-95°F), nighttime 10-20°C (50-68°F); avoid below 7°C (44.6°F) with wet soil
Native Climate
Native to Bura area of Kenya near Garissa
Keep away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners which can stress your plant.
Soil Type
Porous, well-draining mix combining inorganic (gravel, perlite, decomposed granite) and organic (bark chips, coconut coir) components
Fertilizer
Balanced houseplant fertilizer during growing season
Consider repotting every 1-2 years to refresh soil nutrients and accommodate growth.
Propagation
Methods to grow more Dracaena pinguicula plants
Separation of aerial stolons and plantlets
Plant Info
Characteristics and background information
Bura area of Kenya near Garissa
slow
Up to 30 cm tall with stilt-like roots elevating rosettes
perennial
Pet safety unknown
Indoor Blooming
This plant can produce flowers indoors when given proper care.
Flower Description
Clusters of 5-6 flowers on 15-32 cm branched panicles; small brownish bottle-shaped bracts with white anthers and stamens; produces globular berries
Fun Fact
Known as 'walking sansevieria' due to stilt-like roots that make it appear to move away from parent plant
Troubleshooting
Solutions for typical issues with your Dracaena pinguicula
Mushy roots, yellowing leaves, and plant collapse
Elongated, thinner leaves with darker green coloration
Wilting, leaf discoloration, or plant death below 7°C (44.6°F) with wet soil
Varieties
Different varieties of Dracaena pinguicula
Rare variegated form with irregular cream or yellow patterns
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Care Guides
Detailed guides for caring for your Dracaena pinguicula
Low Light Plants Care Guide
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Drought Tolerant Plants Care Guide
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Succulents & Cacti Plants Care Guide
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Flowering Plants Plants Care Guide
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