Dracaenas are stunning plants that can add a tropical touch to any location. And the best part about them is that they are relatively easy to care for. While some people grow them as a houseplant, most dracaenas perform wonderfully as hedges or borders. Among the several dracaenas varieties, one of the most eye-catching is the Spiked Dracaena.
Keep in mind that, under the ideal growing conditions, this plant will grow fast. You might have to transplant it to larger containers as it matures if you decide to plant it in a pot. But what else should you know about the Spiked Dracaena?
Keep reading: you’ll find all the necessary information in this essential guide!
| Botanical Name | Dracaena indivisa |
| Common Name | Spiked Dracaena |
| Plant Type | Annual |
| Flower Color | Usually, the plant doesn’t bloom. However, as a perennial plant (or in nature), mature spiked dracaena might produce clusters of white star-shaped flowers. |
| Size When Mature | Up to 3 feet tall and 18 inches wide |
| Bloom Time | Not Applicable |
| Sun Requirements | Full Sun and Partial Shade |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | 7-11 |
| Soil PH Range | 6.0 and 6.5 |
| Soil Type | Slightly acidic, well-draining, fertile |
| Water Needs | Medium |
| Native Area | Africa, Oceania, and Southern Asia |
What you Need to Know About Spiked Dracaena
The spiked dracaena is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can add volume, texture and a lush touch to your outdoor (or indoor) spaces. Its name comes from the plant’s foliage, which features long and sword-like leaves.
If you have dogs and cats, prevent them from munching on this plant’s leaves as they contain saponin. The chemical compound might cause vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and loss of appetite in your furry friends.
How to Care for Spiked Dracaena
As we mentioned before, caring for a thriving spiked dracaena isn’t a challenging task. Still, becoming familiar with the plant’s needs and requirements will help you recreate the ideal conditions for its growth and get satisfactory results.
Light
Spiked dracaenas perform best under full sunlight. However, they will adapt to partial shade conditions. If you decide to grow it as a houseplant, place it near a south-facing window. Alternatively, choose a sunny location that receives between 4 and 6 hours of direct sunlight.
Water and Soil Needs
A well-draining and slightly acidic substrate will give your spiked dracaena all it needs to thrive (besides the sunlight). Ideally, the substrate’s pH level should be about 6.0 and 6.5. You should keep your plant moist without soaking the soil. Feel the substrate with your fingers before adding extra moisture to avoid overwatering.
Also, don’t forget to water the root zone without wetting the plant’s leaves. Doing so will prevent the spread of fungal infections and other diseases.
Consider adding a layer of mulch around your plants to increase drainage and improve water retention.
Temperature Requirements
You can grow your spiked dracaena as a houseplant. However, remember to place it far from air conditioners or heaters. Consider getting a humidifier or building a pebble tray to maintain the ideal humidity. Also, you can mist your plant’s leaves once or twice a week.
Outdoors, this tropical plant will survive in USDA hardiness zones between 7 and 11.
Fertilizer
Applying fertilizer to your spiked dracaena might be beneficial to boost its growth. Select a balanced and slow-release product for best results. Remember to follow the instructions you find on the package to avoid burning the soil and damaging your plant.
Alternatively, you can also apply a layer of compost around your dracaena. Don’t forget to suspend the application of any treatment during the fall and winter.
Common Diseases
Usually, spiked dracaenas aren’t susceptible to diseases and pests (unless you overwater them). However, it all depends on your plant’s health. As you may expect, weaker plants will have more issues responding to infections.
So, keep an eye on your spiked dracaena and ensure you take prompt action to get rid of anything that might be off with your plant. Don’t forget that prevention is better than cure! Thus, put some effort into maintaining your dracaena healthy.
Spiked Dracaena Propagation
If you would like to get more plants from your spiked dracaena, don’t worry. You can successfully propagate it from cuttings. All you have to do is select a couple of healthy stems and place them in water.
Then, wait a couple of weeks for them to root and plant your cuttings in the soil. Maintain them moist and, with some patience, you’ll be able to enjoy more dracaenas!
Related Article: 6 Types of Tree with Spikes on the Trunk