Dracena, which comes from the Greek word meaning “female dragon” is a genus with about 40 different species that are native to Africa and parts of southern Asian and Central America. The Warneckii, also known as the Striped dracaena, is similar to the Janet Craig plant as it is a medium sized shrub. Its foliage is narrower than Janet Craig and comes to a sharper point, with distinctive white stripes running lengthwise in the leafs center. It likes medium light, but can tolerate direct sunlight as well as low light conditions.
Here are some care tips for your new Dracaena:
Origin: Tropical East Africa
Height: Up to 10 ft (3 m) if not pruned back
Light: Moderate to bright light. Keep plant out of direct sunlight which can scorch its leaves, leaving brown marks. Pale leaves can indicate that light is too low.
Water: These Dracaena will tolerate many abuses, but not soggy soil. Water thoroughly, allowing the top inch (2.5 cm) of the soil to dry out between waterings. Water less in winter, when light levels are lower and growth has slowed. Use a pot with a drainage hole to prevent wet soil. Overwatering will cause leaves to turn yellow and fall off.
Humidity: 40-50% relative humidity.
Temperature: Average room temperatures (65-75°F/18-24°C)
Soil: Any good-quality potting mix
Fertilizer: Feed monthly year-round with a balanced water-soluble fertilizer diluted by half.
Propagation: Take 4 in (10 cm) stem tip cuttings in spring and root them in moist soil.