Dracaena reflexa 'Song of India' – Elegant tropical plant with narrow, arching, dark green leaves bordered with brilliant golden stripes. Native to Madagascar, this Dracaena brings an exotic and refined feel to any indoor space or office. Moderate growth, easy to care for, and perfect for indirect light. Note: mildly toxic to pets.
Approx height (including pot): 70 cm
Diametru Ghiveci: 21 cm
Delivery date: 1-2 weeks
Dracaena reflexa 'Song of India' is one of the most elegant and decorative indoor plants in the Dracaena family. Known for its narrow, arching leaves of deep green, bordered with brilliant golden stripes, this plant brings a touch of tropical luxury to any space. Each leaf appears hand-painted, with yellow-gold margins that contrast beautifully against the dark green centre, creating a remarkable visual effect.
Dracaena reflexa is native to Madagascar, Mauritius, and other islands in the Indian Ocean, where it grows as a shrub or small tree in humid tropical forests. The species was described by Jean-Baptiste Lamarck in 1786. The 'Song of India' cultivar is a horticultural selection valued for its distinctive golden variegation, which has made it one of the most popular Dracaenas in the international houseplant trade.
The leaves are long, narrow, and lanceolate, with an elegant curve that gives the plant a graceful, dynamic appearance. They measure approximately 15-25 cm in length and 2-3 cm in width. The colouring is what defines this plant: a rich dark green in the centre of the leaf, framed by wide, golden-yellow margins that can range from lemon-yellow to intense gold. The leaves grow in dense rosettes at the tips of stems, creating a miniature palm effect.
Dracaena reflexa 'Song of India' has moderate growth and can reach 1-2 metres indoors. It prefers bright indirect light, essential for maintaining its vibrant golden variegation. Water when the top of the soil has dried out (every 7-10 days in summer, less frequently in winter). Use well-draining substrate. Ideal temperature is between 18-27°C. Tolerates normal household humidity but appreciates higher humidity. Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength.
Botanical Info: Family: Asparagaceae | Genus: Dracaena | Species: Dracaena reflexa Lam. (1786) | Cultivar: 'Song of India' | Synonyms: Pleomele reflexa | Common Names: Song of India, Pleomele | Type: Evergreen Perennial Shrub | Native Range: Madagascar, Mauritius, Indian Ocean Islands | Zone: USDA 10-12 | Growth Rate: Moderate
Lungime: 40 cm
Greutate (kg): 10 kg
Denumire: Dracaena
Diametru: 21 cm
Cerințe lumină: Partial umbra
Tip plantă: Decorative
Utilizare: Interior
Tip suport: Ghiveci
Material Suport: Plastic
Yes, Dracaena reflexa 'Song of India', like all Dracaena species, is toxic to cats, dogs, and other household pets. According to the ASPCA, Dracaena plants contain saponins that can cause gastrointestinal symptoms if ingested, including vomiting (sometimes with blood), excessive salivation, loss of appetite, and lethargy. In cats, it can also cause dilated pupils. While toxicity is considered mild to moderate, it is important to position the plant away from curious animals. If you suspect your pet has ingested any part of the plant, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Dracaena reflexa 'Song of India' is a relatively easy-care plant. Place it in bright indirect light – essential for maintaining the vibrant golden variegation. Water when the top 2-3 cm of soil has dried out, usually every 7-10 days in summer and every 2-3 weeks in winter. Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot. Use well-draining substrate. Ideal temperature is between 18-27°C – avoid temperatures below 13°C and cold drafts. Normal household humidity is acceptable, but the plant appreciates higher humidity (50-60%). Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength.
Loss of golden variegation is most commonly caused by insufficient light. Dracaena reflexa 'Song of India' needs bright indirect light to maintain its vibrant golden stripes. In low light, new leaves may grow with less yellow or even completely green. Move the plant to a brighter location near a window with filtered light. However, avoid strong direct afternoon sun which can burn the leaves. Other possible causes include: over-fertilizing (excess nitrogen promotes green growth at the expense of variegation), temperatures too low, or stress from overwatering or underwatering. Leaves that have already turned green will not regain their variegation, but new leaves will be variegated again once light conditions are improved.
Yes, Dracaena reflexa 'Song of India' is an excellent choice for office spaces. The plant tolerates typical office conditions – artificial light combined with indirect natural light, air conditioning, and moderate humidity. Its elegant appearance and golden variegated foliage add a touch of refinement to any professional space. NASA Clean Air studies included Dracaena species among plants capable of filtering indoor air pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene – substances frequently emitted by office furniture, carpets, and electronic equipment. The plant requires minimal care – watering once a week and monthly fertilizing are sufficient. Its compact size and upright habit make it ideal for office corners, reception areas, and meeting rooms.
Dracaena reflexa 'Song of India' requires a well-draining substrate that allows root aeration. An ideal mix contains universal potting soil (50%), perlite (25%), and pine bark or coco coir (25%). Alternatively, you can use a commercial tropical plant substrate. Avoid heavy, clay soils that retain too much moisture – these can cause root rot. The pot must have adequate drainage holes. Repot every 2-3 years or when roots become visibly cramped, using a pot 2-3 cm larger in diameter. The best time for repotting is spring, at the beginning of the growing season.