Dracaena Marginata Propagation Methods

Stem Cuttings

• Most dracaenas are grown from stem cuttings taken from tips or stems (canes). The best cuttings are healthy tips, ideally of new growth, that are 2 to 3 inches long. Lower leaves are removed before placing in soil for rooting. The wounded tip is dipped into rooting hormone if it is a larger cutting. Soil should be well-draining and moist and located in a bright, warm location at about 75 to 90 degrees F. Expect rooting in about six weeks.

Cane Cuttings

• Cane or stem cuttings require a different process than tip cuttings because they generally lack foliage and are planted differently. Central stem cuttings, 2 to 3 inches long, are laid horizontally into potting mix. Dipping in a rooting hormone first can boost rooting success. They are pushed into soil and the surround soil is pressed down. With regular irrigation and a sunny location as well as warm temperatures between 75 and 90 F, best growth and rooting is achieved.

Care

• Tolerant of low light and dry soil, dracaena marginata thrives with little maintenance. It thrives well both indoors and out, in full sun or the low light conditions of a house. Ideal soil is a mix of peat moss, loam and sand and a pH that is slightly acidic, between 6.0 to 6.5. Iron deficiency often occurs above 7.0. Feed with balanced fertilizer and water regularly, though the plants are drought tolerant. Plants prefer protection from wind and temperatures below 50 F, as these two factors together can damage the plants.

Uses and Cultivars

• Grow this species as a notable, upright house plant or plant outdoors in a large container, raised planter or as an ornamental specimen. The Tricolor cultivar produces green leaves with ivory stripes and red edging, creating a colorful and notable effect. Colorama similarly exhibits distinct color schemes. These cultivars were produced for ornamental value and lack chlorophyll and vigor. Plant these only in bright locations indoors.