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Description
Dracaena Aletriformis, also known as the Dwarf Dragon Tree or Finger Plant, is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Asparagaceae family. This plant is native to Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, and is popularly grown as an indoor plant worldwide. The plant has long, thin leaves that grow in a rosette at the top of a single stem, and can grow up to 1.5 meters in height.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Dracaena |
| Species | Aletriformis |
Appearance
The Dracaena Aletriformis has long, narrow, and pointed leaves that can grow up to 60cm in length and 2cm in width. These leaves have a greenish-grey color with yellowish stripes running along the length of the leaf. The stem of this plant is thick, woody, and can grow up to 5cm in diameter. The plant produces white, fragrant flowers when in bloom.
Care Guide
Dracaena Aletriformis is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to take care of this plant:Water: Water the plant once a week, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. The plant prefers well-draining soil, so make sure to not let the water sit in the pot.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter to grow the plant. Make sure to repot the plant every two to three years to ensure healthy growth.Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight but can also tolerate low-light conditions. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.Hardiness Zones: The plant grows well in hardiness zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dracaena Aletriformis is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. To prevent these pests, make sure to keep the plant clean and dust-free. If the plant is infected with pests, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat the infestation. The plant can also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered, so make sure to not let the soil stay too wet.
Habitat
Dracaena Aletriformis is native to Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, where it grows in dry, rocky areas. The plant is adapted to survive in low-water conditions and can grow in a variety of soils, from sandy to clay. The plant is also tolerant of high temperatures and can grow in areas with temperatures up to 35°C.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dracaena Aletriformis toxic to pets?
A: Yes, this plant is toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. It can cause vomiting, drooling, and loss of appetite if ingested.Q: Can Dracaena Aletriformis grow in low-light conditions?
A: Yes, this plant can grow in low-light conditions, but it prefers bright, indirect sunlight.Q: Can Dracaena Aletriformis grow outdoors?
A: Yes, this plant can grow outdoors in hardiness zones 10-11.Q: How often should I fertilize Dracaena Aletriformis?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Dracaena Aletriformis:- Dracaena Marginata- Dracaena Fragrans- Dracaena Janet Craig- Dracaena Deremensis
References
– “Dracaena Aletriformis.” PlantZAfrica.com. South African National Biodiversity Institute, n.d. Web. 24 Feb. 2021.- “Dracaena Aletriformis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 24 Feb. 2021.- “Dracaena Aletriformis – Dwarf Dragon Tree.” World of Succulents. N.p., n.d. Web. 24 Feb. 2021.
