Houseplant of the week: song of India

Posted by Martina Birk on Saturday, July 13, 2024
Houseplant of the weekLife and style

This slender, lush and easy-to-grow plant could become the star of your indoor jungle

Why will I love it?
If you’re looking for a tropical touch at home, the song of India, Dracaena reflexa, will transport you to a world of vibrant colours and lush foliage. With its easy-care nature and visual appeal, this houseplant will surely become the star of your indoor jungle.

Light or shade?
The song of India thrives in bright, indirect light. While it can tolerate lower light conditions, the plant’s colours may fade in the shade.

Where should I put it?
This dracaena species is a versatile plant, happy in various settings. Its slender leaves create an elegant silhouette, making it an excellent choice for filling an empty corner near a north- or east-facing window.

How do I keep it alive?
Allow the top inch of the soil to dry out before watering thoroughly. Ensure the pot has good drainage. The song of India appreciates moderate humidity levels, so mist the leaves regularly. It prefers temperatures between 15C and 24C. Feed it monthly during the growing season.

Did you know ...
It’s native to islands in the Indian Ocean. It’s part of the dracaena family, including various species cherished for ornamental foliage. One close relative is song of Jamaica, which has pale and dark green variegated leaves instead of the yellow and green of song of India.

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