The Dragon's Blood Tree, Dracaena cinnabari, is a remarkable evergreen tree native to the Socotra archipelago in Yemen. It is renowned for its unique umbrella-shaped canopy, which provides shade and reduces soil erosion in its native arid environment. This tree can reach heights of up to 10 meters and has thick, fleshy leaves that minimize water loss, making it highly drought-tolerant. The tree produces a red resin known as 'dragon's blood,' historically used in traditional medicine, dyes, and varnishes. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, the Dragon's Blood Tree plays a crucial role in creating microclimates, stabilizing soil, and serving as a keystone species in its ecosystem. It is often planted alongside other drought-tolerant species such as frankincense trees (Boswellia spp.) and aloe plants to form a resilient guild that supports biodiversity and soil health.
Growing Details
Dracaena cinnabari thrives in well-drained, rocky soils with full sun exposure. Soil should be prepared with a mix of sand and gravel to ensure excellent drainage. Mulching with coarse organic material can help retain moisture without causing root rot. Companion plants include other drought-tolerant species like frankincense and aloe. Common mistakes include overwatering and planting in poorly drained soils. The tree grows slowly, and patience is required. Harvesting the resin should be done car
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Dracaena cinnabari</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: Socotra archipelago, Yemen
applicable geo region: Middle East
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of March for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of Jun for 60 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(0/5)
edible uses:
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: The resin of the Dragon's Blood Tree is traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. It is applied topically to treat cuts and abrasions and is also used in traditional remedies for gastrointestinal and respiratory ailments. However, it should be used with caution, and consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended before use.
health concerns: The resin should not be ingested in large quantities due to potential toxicity. Always consult with a healthcare provider before use.
other uses: The red resin is used as a dye and in varnishes. The tree provides shade and is effective for erosion control in arid landscapes. It also contributes to the creation of microclimates, supporting other plant and animal life.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Dracaena cinnabari
common names: Dragon's Blood Tree; Socotra Dragon Tree
family: Asparagaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Dracaena
Growing Conditions
area needed: 10.0 m
spacing: 5.0 m
growing difficulty:
Deciduous / Evergreen:
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: Low
humidity: Medium
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: High
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(10/10)
first harvest: 0 years
life span: 600 years
succession: Late
growth rate: Fast
max height: 10.0 m
max width: 8.0 m
soil preference:
Poor Soil
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Dracaena cinnabari thrives in well-drained, rocky soils with full sun exposure. Soil should be prepared with a mix of sand and gravel to ensure excellent drainage. Mulching with coarse organic material can help retain moisture without causing root rot. Companion plants include other drought-tolerant species like frankincense and aloe. Common mistakes include overwatering and planting in poorly drained soils. The tree grows slowly, and patience is required. Harvesting the resin should be done car
Potential Disturbances: The Dragon's Blood Tree is generally pest-resistant. However, it can suffer from root rot if overwatered. To manage this, ensure proper drainage and avoid excessive watering. No specific pest management is typically required due to its natural resilience.
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