The Dragon Tree, Dracaena draco, is a remarkable evergreen tree native to the Canary Islands, Madeira, and Cape Verde. It features a distinctive umbrella-like canopy and a thick, branching trunk that exudes a red resin known as 'dragon's blood' when cut. Historically, this resin has been prized for its medicinal properties and as a dye. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, the Dragon Tree serves as a windbreak and enhances biodiversity in mixed-species plantings. Its drought tolerance makes it ideal for xeriscaping and water-conserving landscapes. The Dragon Tree plays a role in the canopy layer of food forests, providing shade and habitat for understory plants. It can be paired with drought-tolerant companions such as rosemary and lavender, which benefit from its shade and wind protection. Its long lifespan and architectural form contribute to the resilience and aesthetic value of natural farming systems.
Growing Details
Dracaena draco thrives in well-drained, sandy loam soils and can tolerate poor soil conditions. It requires full sun and is drought-tolerant once established. For optimal growth, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as rosemary and lavender can benefit from the shade and wind protection provided by the Dragon Tree. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot, and be
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Dracaena draco</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to the Canary Islands, Madeira, and Ca
applicable geo region: Macaronesia
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of May for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of August for 60 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(0/5)
edible uses:
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: The resin known as 'dragon's blood' has been used traditionally for its astringent and wound-healing properties. It is applied to cuts and abrasions to promote healing and prevent infection. Additionally, it has been used in traditional medicine for gastrointestinal issues and as an anti-inflammatory agent. Caution is advised as it should not be ingested in large quantities.
health concerns: The resin should not be ingested in large quantities due to potential toxicity.
other uses: The red resin is used as a dye and in varnishes. The tree is also valued for its ornamental appeal in landscape design.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Dracaena draco
common names: Dragon Tree; Canary Islands Dragon Tree
family: Asparagaceae
sub family: Nolinoideae
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Dracaena
Growing Conditions
area needed: 10.0 m
spacing: 5.0 m
growing difficulty: High
Deciduous / Evergreen:
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: Low
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: Medium
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(9/10)
first harvest: 10 years
life span: 1000 years
succession: Late
growth rate: Slow
max height: 12.0 m
max width: 8.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Dracaena draco thrives in well-drained, sandy loam soils and can tolerate poor soil conditions. It requires full sun and is drought-tolerant once established. For optimal growth, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as rosemary and lavender can benefit from the shade and wind protection provided by the Dragon Tree. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot, and be
Potential Disturbances: The Dragon Tree is generally pest-free, but may occasionally suffer from scale insects. Natural pest management includes introducing beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings to control scale populations. Neem oil can be used as an organic spray to manage infestations. Ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot.
Growth Timeline
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