Scientific name: Dracaena marginata
Common names: Dragon Tree, Red-Edged Dracaena, Ribbon Plant, Marginate Dracaena
The dracaena marginata, commonly known as the Madagascar Dragon Tree, is a versatile and low-maintenance plant that has captured the attention of plant enthusiasts worldwide. Native to the island of Madagascar, this stunning plant is celebrated for its upright growth habit, slender woody stems, and dramatic, sword-like leaves. Perfect for both indoor and outdoor settings, Dracaena marginata brings a touch of the tropics to homes, offices, and gardens.
The leaves of Dracaena marginata are long, narrow, and pointed, radiating from the top of its woody stems. The striking green leaves are edged in red or purplish tones, giving the plant a bold and colorful appearance. It often grows with a single or multi-stemmed trunk that becomes woody over time, making it resemble a small tree, but despite its tree-like appearance, Dracaena marginata is classified as a shrub and belongs to the Asparagaceae family, making it a relative of asparagus and yucca plants. Its sparse foliage creates a sculptural, minimalist aesthetic. It is a slow grower which in outdoor tropical settings can grow up to 20 feet tall.
The genus name “Dracaena” is derived from the Greek word “drakaina,” meaning “female dragon,” which refers to the plant’s dramatic, spiky leaves.
It is often grown in clumps or braided together for a unique, decorative effect.