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Description
Croton Draco is a species of plant in the family Euphorbiaceae. It is commonly known as the dragon’s blood tree due to its red sap that has been used in medicine and dyeing for centuries. This tree is native to the islands of Socotra, which is located in the Arabian Sea, east of Somalia. The Croton Draco is a slow-growing tree that can reach up to 10 meters in height.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Croton |
Appearance
The Croton Draco has a unique appearance with a thick, sturdy trunk and branches that spread out in a circular pattern. The leaves are thick and leathery, with a glossy green color that is tinged with red. The tree’s flowers are small and greenish-yellow and grow in clusters. The most distinctive feature of the Croton Draco is its red sap, which is produced when the bark is cut or damaged.
Care Guide
To care for a Croton Draco, it is important to provide it with the right conditions. The tree needs to be watered regularly, but not overwatered, as this can lead to root rot. It also needs to be fertilized regularly with a balanced fertilizer. The soil should be well-draining, and the tree should be planted in a sunny location. The Croton Draco is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Croton Draco is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases. Scale insects are a common pest that can damage the leaves and stems of the tree. Mealybugs and spider mites can also infest the tree. The tree is also susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and powdery mildew.
Habitat
The Croton Draco is native to the island of Socotra in the Arabian Sea. It is found in the island’s dry, rocky terrain and is adapted to withstand the island’s harsh climate. The tree is also found in other parts of the world, such as South America, where it has been introduced as an ornamental plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Croton Draco poisonous?
A: Yes, the Croton Draco is poisonous if ingested. The tree’s sap can also cause skin irritation.
Q: Can the Croton Draco be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the Croton Draco can be grown indoors if given enough sunlight.
Q: How often should I water my Croton Draco?
A: The Croton Draco should be watered when the soil is dry to the touch, but not overwatered.
Q: How long does it take for a Croton Draco to grow to full size?
A: The Croton Draco is a slow-growing tree that can take up to 15 years to reach full size.
Related Plants
- Croton
- Croton Petra
- Croton Variegatum
- Croton Tiglium
References
- “Croton Draco.” Socotra Eco-tours. https://www.socotra-eco-tours.com/croton-draco
- “Croton Draco.” Plants of the World Online. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:351407-1
- “Croton Draco.” The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/croton-draco-3269776
