The dragon tree is known for its thick, red resin, called “dragon's blood.” The tree got its name from one of Hercules' legendary adventures. As the tale goes, Hercules was tasked with bringing back three golden apples from the garden of the Hesperides, guarded by a 100-headed dragon.
This evergreen species is named after its dark red resin, which is known as "dragon's blood". Unlike most monocot plants, Dracaena displays secondary growth, D. cinnabari even has growth zones resembling tree rings found in dicot tree species.
The canopies of mature Dragon Trees form a distinctive, umbrella-shaped crown that helps limit evaporation; useful given the dry, mountain top conditions that it's known to grow in. It's thought to have gotten its name from the red sap found inside the trees.
According to one legend, the Dragon Tree was born from the blood of a hundred-headed dragon slain by Hercules during his twelve labors. The tree's red sap was said to be the dragon's blood, forever flowing as a reminder of the creature's defeat.
Dracaena Marginata (Madagascar Dragon Tree) Care Guide and Growing Tips
What is the spiritual benefit of the Dragon Tree?
This hardy houseplant is known for its incredible air purifying qualities. In Feng Shui, the spirit of the Dragon Tree is also thought to bring good luck and prosperity.
The dragon is known as the sons of heaven and the leaders of rainfall. It symbolizes royalty, nobility and good luck. The dragon appeared upon turtle shields as a tribal totem back during the Yin and Shang dynasties. It was later the national flag during the Qing Dynasty.
Pruning a dragon tree incorrectly can lead to aesthetic issues as the plant matures. It is important to trim the drooping leaves with shears and let them dry and brown completely before gently removing them by hand. Pulling or tearing the fronds can damage the plant and create an entry point for disease.
Embodiment of Inner Strength: The Dragon totem is a symbol of immense inner strength and courage, guiding individuals to uncover their latent power. Spiritual Guidance and Wisdom: The Dragon, revered in dragon mythology, offers spiritual guidance, encouraging seekers to delve into the depths of wisdom.
Where to grow a dragon tree. Dragon trees do best in bright, indirect light, with average temperatures between 18-24ºC, but no lower than 15ºC. Keep out of direct sun as this will scorch the leaves.
Longevity: Dracaena marginata boasts remarkable longevity, often thriving for decades with proper care. Indoors, its lifespan can extend beyond 20 years, making it a lasting companion in homes and offices.
Several factors contribute to the high cost of Dragon Trees, including their slow growth rate, the time required to reach a sellable size, and their unique aesthetic appeal. Additionally, older, more mature specimens, which are rarer and take decades to develop their characteristic forms, are particularly valuable.
Although an easy-going species that is known for its tolerance to drought and low maintenance needs, Dragon Trees still require bright light and occasional watering to keep looking healthy. Suited for life indoors or out, this fascinating plant is sure to bring some ancient elegance to any space.
Dracaena marginata (also known as Dragon Tree, a colorful and popular variety) Dracaena deremensis 'Lemon Lime' (beautiful, bright yellow and green foliage) Dracaena deremensis 'Warneckii' (shiny green leaves with white stripes)
Dracaena is one of the best indoor trees for low-light areas. In good light, it can grow up to 18 inches a year for its first few years. In zones 10B-11, it can actually be grown outdoors. There's also a variety, 'Tricolor', with white leaves edged in pink.
El Drago, also known as Drago Milenario and Drago de Icod de los Vinos, is the oldest and largest living specimen of Dracaena draco, or dragon tree, in Parque del Drago, Icod de los Vinos, Tenerife, Spain. It is said to be a thousand years old, although the age is disputed.
Revelation 12:3 reads, “And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads.” Later, in Revelation 20:2, the text calls Satan a dragon. It states that the dragon will be bound for a thousand years.
Dragons are divine Earth guardians who harness the lifeforce of creation and unlimited love. Representing the balance between our powerful masculine and sensual feminine energies, dragons, in a sense, are our yin and yang.
Dragons are often seen as powerful spiritual symbols representing strength, wisdom, protection, and transformation. In many cultures, they embody the balance of opposites—such as fire and water, or chaos and order—and act as guardians of spiritual realms.
What are some interesting facts about dragon trees?
Leaves of the dragon tree were harvested for hundreds of years to provide fiber that was woven into rope. The largest dragon tree known was called the “Monster of Orotava,” a Canary Islands tree that was said to be more than 68 feet (21 meters) tall, with a 26-foot (8-meter) trunk diameter.
In feng shui, the dragon tree is believed to attract positive energy, specifically associated with wealth, prosperity, and growth. This symbolism stems from the plant's resilience and upward growth, reminiscent of a dragon ascending to the heavens.
Water. Wait until the top half of the soil is dry before watering a dragon tree, which could take three weeks or more. Like many drought-tolerant plants, the dragon tree can be easily overwatered.
