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Description
Dracaena Fragrans White Jewel is an ornamental plant that belongs to the family Asparagaceae. It is a cultivar of the popular Dracaena Fragrans species and is known for its striking appearance. The White Jewel variety has distinctive white stripes on its green leaves, making it a popular choice for indoor decoration. It is native to tropical Africa and is commonly grown as a houseplant due to its low maintenance requirements.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Genus: | Dracaena |
Appearance
Dracaena Fragrans White Jewel has long, narrow leaves that can grow up to 2 feet in length. The leaves are green with white stripes that run parallel to the veins, giving it a distinctive appearance. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and has a slender, upright growth habit. It produces fragrant white flowers that bloom in clusters.
Care Guide
To ensure the health and longevity of Dracaena Fragrans White Jewel, it is important to follow proper care guidelines. Here are some key factors to consider:
Water
Watering should be done once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the leaves to wilt and turn brown.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Soil
The plant prefers well-draining soil, such as a mixture of peat moss and perlite. Repotting should be done every 2-3 years.
Sunlight
Dracaena Fragrans White Jewel prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light can cause the plant to become leggy.
Hardiness Zones
The plant is not frost tolerant and thrives in warm, humid environments. It is best suited for USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dracaena Fragrans White Jewel is relatively pest and disease resistant, but can still be susceptible to certain issues. Some common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Diseases such as leaf spot and stem rot can occur if the plant is overwatered or exposed to too much moisture.
Habitat
Dracaena Fragrans White Jewel is native to tropical Africa and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including rainforests and savannas. It is commonly grown as a houseplant due to its low maintenance requirements.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dracaena Fragrans White Jewel be grown outdoors?
A: The plant is not frost tolerant and is best suited for indoor cultivation or in warm, humid environments such as a greenhouse or conservatory.
Q: How often should Dracaena Fragrans White Jewel be repotted?
A: Repotting should be done every 2-3 years or when the plant has outgrown its current container.
Q: Can Dracaena Fragrans White Jewel be propagated?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated through stem cuttings or by air layering.
Q: Is Dracaena Fragrans White Jewel toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Dracaena Fragrans White Jewel:
- Dracaena Fragrans
- Dracaena Marginata
- Dracaena Reflexa
- Dracaena Sanderiana
- Dracaena Compacta
References
- “Dracaena Fragrans ‘White Jewel’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed May 20, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b667.
- “Dracaena Fragrans ‘White Jewel’.” Plant Care Today. Accessed May 20, 2021. https://plantcaretoday.com/dracaena-fragrans-white-jewel.html.
- “Dracaena Fragrans ‘White Jewel’.” The Spruce. Accessed May 20, 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/dracaena-fragrans-white-jewel-care-5074003.
