Dracaena trifasciata image • Photo: Author Mokkie• CC BY-SA 3.0
Dracaena trifasciata is an evergreen perennial plant with stiff, vertically growing leaves arranged in a dense basal rosette. Its mature leaves are dark green with distinctive light gray-green cross-banding, typically reaching 70-90 cm long but capable of growing over 2 meters in optimal conditions. The plant spreads via creeping rhizomes (both above and below ground) and uses crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) photosynthesis to conserve water. Its sword-shaped leaves with sharp margins and snake-like patterning make it visually distinctive.
Plant Care Overview
Care Guide
Essential requirements for your Dracaena trifasciata
Light Requirements
Low to bright indirect light
Light conditions can affect leaf color and growth rate. Adjust placement as needed based on your plant's response.
Watering Schedule
Every 2-3 weeks (allow soil to dry completely between waterings); reduce to every 2 months in winter
Humidity Needs
low humidity
Always check soil moisture before watering. Adjust frequency based on your home's conditions.
Temperature Range
15-30°C (59-86°F)
Native Climate
Native to Tropical West Africa (Nigeria to Congo)
Keep away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners which can stress your plant.
Soil Type
Well-draining, sandy soil with good aeration
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 trifasciata plants
Rhizome division or leaf cuttings (note: variegation may be lost with cuttings)
Plant Info
Characteristics and background information
Tropical West Africa (Nigeria to Congo)
slow
Up to 2 meters (6.5 feet) tall in optimal conditions
Perennial
Toxic to pets
This plant has air purifying properties.
Bloom Season
Spring to summer (rarely flowers indoors)
Flower Description
Greenish-white to cream-colored tubular flowers with sticky texture, some varieties fragrant at night
Fun Fact
Uses CAM photosynthesis - opens stomata only at night to minimize water loss, making it exceptionally drought-resistant.
Troubleshooting
Solutions for typical issues with your Dracaena trifasciata
Yellowing leaves, mushy stems, foul-smelling soil
Brown tips or yellow patches on leaves
Fine webbing between leaves, yellow speckling on foliage
Varieties
Different varieties of Dracaena trifasciata
Popular variegated cultivar with golden-yellow leaf margins
Compact dwarf variety forming bird's nest-like rosettes
Unusual cultivar with vertical white striping
Community Tips
Advice shared by other plant enthusiasts
No tips shared yet. Be the first to share your experience!
(Coming soon)
Care Guides
Detailed guides for caring for your Dracaena trifasciata
Low Light Plants Care Guide
Learn how to care for low light plants like your Dracaena trifasciata
Tropical Plants Plants Care Guide
Learn how to care for tropical plants plants like your Dracaena trifasciata
Low Maintenance Plants Care Guide
Learn how to care for low maintenance plants like your Dracaena trifasciata
Air Purifying Plants Care Guide
Learn how to care for air purifying plants like your Dracaena trifasciata
Related Plants
Similar plants that might interest you
Nurseries Near You
Find Local Nurseries That Carry Dracaena trifasciata
We're building a database of local nurseries to help you find where to buy this plant near you. You'll be able to see store hours, contact information, and even check inventory.