Marginata Magenta Spikes Dracaena Plant

Marginata Magenta Dracaena Plant has brilliant green foliage edged with chocolaty, dark magenta that eventually fills in each of the maturing sword-like leaves. As new leaves emerge that bright emerald green, the contrast and combination of the two colors and the ever-changing leaves makes for a quite striking Dragon Tree. This is the perfect addition to a foliage-only container or to add height to flowering containers with reds and oranges the prevalent color. Have fun with this one!

Planting Instructions:

• - Plant in spring or early summer
• - Ideal as a centerpiece or "thriller" in container arrangements
• - Space plants 18-24 inches apart if planting multiple

Soil Preparation:

• - Ideal soil pH: 6.0-6.5 (slightly acidic)
• - For containers, use a quality potting mix with added perlite for drainage

Watering Specifics:

• - Water when the top inch of soil feels dry

Fertilizer Type:

• - Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season
• - Alternatively, use a slow-release fertilizer in spring and mid-summer

Pruning and Training:

• - Minimal pruning required
• - Remove any dead or yellowing leaves at the base

Additional Pest Management:

• - Generally pest-resistant, but watch for spider mites and scale insects
• - Monitor for root rot in poorly drained soils

Foliage Indicators:

• - Produces long, narrow, sword-like leaves
• - Upright, spiky growth habit
• - Can reach 2-3 feet tall in a single growing season

Light Requirements:

• - Prefers full sun to partial shade
• - Can tolerate more shade than many sun-loving annuals
• - In hot climates, afternoon shade can prevent leaf scorch

Temperature Tolerance:

• - Thrives in temperatures between 60-80°F
• - Can tolerate brief periods of temperatures down to 40°F
• - Not frost-hardy; bring containers indoors or treat as an annual in colder climates

Companion Plants for Dracaena:

• - Petunias: Offers colorful blooms as a "filler" in container arrangements
• - Sweet Potato Vine: Provides a trailing "spiller" element with contrasting foliage
• - Coleus: Adds vibrant foliage colors to complement the dark green spikes
• - Geraniums: Provides colorful blooms and rounded foliage to contrast with the spiky texture
• - Calibrachoa: Offers small, petunia-like flowers in cascading growth for container edges