Dracaena Marginata Red in 6″ Pot

A slow-growing, upright evergreen shrub that looks like a miniature palm. Indoors it reaches 1.5–2.5 m (5–8 ft) tall (up to 4–6 m in the wild), with a spread of 0.5–1 m. The trunk is a slender, woody cane (often multi-stemmed or braided) marked with diamond-shaped leaf scars where older leaves have dropped. Leaves are narrow, strap- or sword-shaped, 30–60 cm × 1–2 cm, arching, glossy dark green in the center with a distinct thin reddish-purple to maroon margin; cultivars vary—‘Magenta’ has broader red flush, ‘Bicolor’ adds a pinkish edge, ‘Tricolor’ adds a cream stripe. Foliage forms dense tufts at the cane tips. Rarely flowers indoors; mature outdoor plants may produce tiny, fragrant white flowers followed by orange-red berries.

Quick care: bright indirect light to some direct sun (east/west window is ideal); can tolerate medium light but red edges fade in low light, and leaves get leggy. Warm 18–27 °C (65–80 °F); avoid cold drafts and temps below 15 °C (59 °F) (damage below ∼12 °C/54 °F). Soil: loose, loam-based, well-drained (potting soil 60% + perlite 20% + sand or bark 20%). Water when the top 5–7 cm (2–3 in) of soil are dry—thoroughly, then let drain; reduce in winter. Tolerates brief drought but hates soggy roots (yellow leaves = overwatering). Sensitive to fluoride/fluorinated tap water—use filtered/rainwater if tips brown. Average indoor humidity is fine; mist occasionally if air is very dry. Feed monthly in spring–summer with balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength; skip in winter. Prune by cutting the cane back in spring to control height—two or more new shoots will sprout below the cut. Repot every 2–3 years or top-dress. Propagate by 10–15 cm tip cuttings or leafless cane sections in water/soil with bottom heat (roots in 3–6 weeks). Watch for spider mites, mealybugs, scale, and thrips in dry air; wipe leaves to keep dust-free. Toxic to cats and dogs if ingested (saponins). Excellent low-maintenance sculptural accent for corners, offices, and bright rooms; listed as an air-purifying plant.