How to Grow a Flying Dragon Plant

Select a planting location with sufficient clearance for the mature tree’s branches to spread up to 10 feet wide. Ensure there are no overhead wires because the Poncirus trifoliate flying dragon grows up to 15 feet high. Make sure the area receives full sunshine most of the day, although partial afternoon shade is acceptable.

Dig a hole as deep as the nursery pot. Fill the hole with water and let sit for two to three hours. Soak the nursery pot and let it sit up to three hours to loosen the roots.

Place a 2-inch layer of compost in the bottom of the hole. Tug the flying dragon plant gently from its pot, wearing heavy garden gloves to avoid getting poked by the plant’s thorns. Separate the roots and set the plant in the hole, spreading out the roots. Fill the hole with soil and tamp down firmly. Ensure the base of the tree, where the roots and branches join, is level with the surrounding ground.

Water the newly planted flying dragon plant immediately. Spread a 2-inch thick layer of mulch around the plant to retain soil moisture. Continue watering the flying dragon plant throughout the growing season each year. Check soil at the base of the plant and when it is dry down to 2 inches below the surface, run an open hose to completely soak the roots and surrounding ground.

Prune flying dragon plants in the early spring before leaves emerge. Use long-handled pruners to avoid being scratched by thorns. Remove only the outer branches to contain the plant from overgrowing into surrounding garden areas, but always prune lightly to retain the plant’s appealing twisted form.