Dracaena Reflexa Riki is a popular houseplant known for its striking appearance and easy care. This tropical plant is native to Madagascar and is also commonly referred to as the Song of India or Pleomele Reflexa. It belongs to the Asparagaceae family and is a member of the Dracaena genus.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Dracaena |
Appearance
The Dracaena Reflexa Riki is a small to medium-sized plant that can grow up to 3-6 feet tall. It has a bushy appearance with a woody stem and long, narrow, dark green leaves that have a glossy texture. The leaves are arranged in a rosette pattern and can grow up to 12 inches long and 2 inches wide. The plant also produces fragrant white flowers that bloom in the summer, followed by small red berries.
Care Guide
Dracaena Reflexa Riki is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
Water: Water your plant once a week, and make sure the soil is well-draining. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so it’s important to let the soil dry out between watering.
Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the winter months.
Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand works well for Dracaena Reflexa Riki.
Sunlight: This plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves, so it’s best to place it near a window that gets filtered light.
Hardiness Zones: Dracaena Reflexa Riki is best suited for hardiness zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Dracaena Reflexa Riki is generally a healthy plant that is not prone to pests or diseases. However, here are a few issues to watch out for:
Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. Use a mild soap and water solution to get rid of them.
Mealybugs: These insects can cause white, cottony spots on the leaves. Use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to remove them.
Root rot: Over-watering can cause root rot in this plant. If you notice wilting leaves and a foul smell from the soil, it may be a sign of root rot. Remove the plant from the soil and trim away any affected roots before repotting in fresh soil.
Habitat
The Dracaena Reflexa Riki is native to Madagascar, where it grows in tropical rainforests. It prefers warm, humid climates and can be grown indoors or outdoors in areas with mild winters.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dracaena Reflexa Riki be grown in low light conditions?
A: Yes, this plant can tolerate low light conditions, but it may not grow as quickly or produce as many leaves.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Dracaena Reflexa Riki?
A: Fertilize once a month during the growing season (spring and summer), and do not fertilize during the winter months.
Q: Can I propagate my Dracaena Reflexa Riki?
A: Yes, this plant can be propagated through stem cuttings. Allow the cutting to dry out for a few days before planting it in well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I water my Dracaena Reflexa Riki?
A: Water once a week, and make sure the soil is well-draining. Over-watering can lead to root rot.
Related Plants
- Dracaena Marginata
- Dracaena Fragrans
- Dracaena Sanderiana
- Dracaena Janet Craig
References
- “Dracaena Reflexa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 8 September 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a704>.
- “Dracaena Reflexa Riki.” Gardening Know How. Accessed 8 September 2021. <https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/dracaena/dracaena-reflexa-care.htm>.
- “Dracaena Reflexa Riki.” The Spruce. Accessed 8 September 2021. <https://www.thespruce.com/dracaena-reflexa-care-1902799>.
