Small-leaved dragon tree
Dracaena reflexa

Family: Asparagaceae

What it is like

A small tree. It grows 3-5 m high but can be 12 m high. It is much branched. The bark is white and smooth and develops a papery peel. The leaves are narrow and 16-25 cm long by 1-2 cm wide. They are dark green. They tend to be in rosettes near the ends of branches. Flowers are cream in colour in loose spikes. They are at the ends of branches and 25 cm long. The flowers close during the day and open at night. The fruit is berry-like. It is 2-2.5 cm across and fleshy. It is bright red when ripe.

There are about 40 species of Dracaena. Also put in the family Dracaenaceae.

Where it is found

A tropical plant. It grows naturally on the edge of moist evergreen forest. It can also be in swamp forest and dune forest. It suits hardiness zones 10-12.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Asia, Australia, Central Africa, Congo, East Africa, Hawaii, Indochina, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Myanmar, Nepal, Pacific, SE Asia, South Africa, Southern Africa, Thailand, USA, Zambia, Zimbabwe

How it is used for food

Edible parts

Leaves

How it is grown

It is usually grown from stem cuttings.

Its other names

Local names

Kosindahy, Mugonda, Mulengelenge, Rajo

Synonyms

Dracaena usambarensis Engl.; Pleome reflexa (Lamarck) N.E. Brown;