Green Logs

Plant guide

Dracaena

ドラセナ

Watering rhythm

Every 7–14 days

About this plant

Dracaena is a foliage plant native to Africa and Asia, prized for its slender, elegant leaves. With many different growth forms to choose from, it's a favorite among beginners—easy to care for and forgiving. It's naturally drought-tolerant and grows at a leisurely pace, making it perfect if you're busy.

Placement & environment

Dracaena thrives in bright, indirect light, but direct sun should be avoided. The ideal temperature range is 15–25°C; try not to let it drop below 10°C. Aim for humidity around 40–60%. A spot by a window with good air circulation, or near a window filtered by sheer curtains, works wonderfully.

Seasonal watering rhythm

Light and temperature change a plant's metabolism, so the ideal cadence shifts with the seasons.

Watering rhythm

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom once the soil surface feels dry. Dracaena is quite drought-tolerant and won't easily wilt even if the soil dries out completely. To prevent root rot, avoid overwatering—check the soil about 2–3 cm deep to gauge moisture, and only water when it's truly dry at that depth.

Common troubles

Quick lookup from symptom to likely cause and action.

SymptomLikely causeWhat to try
Leaves turning yellowUsually caused by overwatering and root rot, or sometimes by insufficient light. Remember that Dracaena prefers drier conditions.Check how dry your soil is and reduce watering frequency. If root rot seems likely, take the plant out of its pot, examine the roots, trim away any soft or blackened sections, and repot with fresh soil.
Leaves wilting or droopingThis often happens when temperatures are too cold, or when the roots aren't functioning properly. Dracaena is sensitive to cold.Move your plant to a spot where it stays above 15°C. If root rot is the culprit, refresh the soil and check the roots carefully.
Leaves looking thin and fadedLikely due to insufficient light. Dracaena loves brightness, and it will gradually weaken in dim conditions.Move it to a brighter location—ideally near a window with sheer curtains filtering the light. If indoor light is naturally low, using a grow light can make a real difference.
No new growth, or growth has stalledUsually a sign of cold temperatures or nutrient deficiency. Dracaena slows down significantly below 15°C.Keep temperatures at 18°C or warmer. From spring through autumn, feed with diluted houseplant fertilizer once or twice a month.
Brown spots or patches on leaves, or leaf edges drying outEither the air is too dry, causing leaf scorch, or cold drafts are hitting the plant directly.Mist the leaves several times a week to raise humidity. Move the plant away from air conditioning vents, fans, or any source of cold air.

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