The Dragon tree is often planted as a special interest feature plant in ornamental landscapes and gardens in many parts of the Inland Empire. Over time it will grow into a medium size tree with a stout succulent trunk up to 25 ft. tall. As plants mature, they develop broad crowns comprised of many branches extending outward to form a bold canopy shape. Gray-green foliage is comprised of 2 ft. long sword-shaped leaves; creamy-white flowers occur in large spikes above the foliage and are followed by bright orange berries.
Native to Mediterranean climates on the Canary Islands, the dragon tree is one of the most unusual plants for ornamental landscapes. It is highly adapted to warm and sunny climate exposures and easily adapts to annual summer drought. It shows sensitivity to cold temperatures below 25°F and should be planted in warm microclimate areas. Young plants are often grown in containers and raised planters to display their character as their trunks mature.
Like other succulent-type plants, the dragon tree grows best in well-drained soils with infrequent summer watering. It takes many years to achieve tall and large specimen stature, but it is well worth the effort as few plants provide such unique character.