Song-of-india (Dracaena reflexa, Encycl. 2: 324 (1786))

Family: Asparagaceae

Author: Lam.

Bibliography: Encycl. 2: 324 (1786)

Year: 1786

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Dracaena

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: NE. Mozambique, W. Indian Ocean

Description

The Song-of-india, scientifically known as Dracaena reflexa, is a visually striking and popular ornamental houseplant. Described in the “Encyclopedia” in 1786 by Lam., it has since become a favorite among plant enthusiasts for its lush, variegated foliage and relatively low maintenance.

Native to northeastern Mozambique and regions around the western Indian Ocean, Dracaena reflexa thrives in a tropical climate. It belongs to the Asparagaceae family, which includes a variety of hardy and attractive plants. One of the defining characteristics of the Song-of-india is its long, narrow leaves which are typically dark green with light green or yellowish stripes, giving it a distinctive and vibrant appearance.

In its natural habitat, Dracaena reflexa can grow into a small tree, reaching heights of up to 20 feet. However, when cultivated as a houseplant, it is often pruned to maintain a more manageable size, usually around 3-6 feet tall. Its upright growth habit and cane-like stems make it an excellent choice for adding vertical interest to indoor spaces.

The care of Song-of-india is straightforward, making it an ideal plant for both novice and experienced gardeners. It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions, though growth may slow and variegation might diminish in less illuminated environments. Regular watering is essential, but the plant should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings to avoid root rot. Additionally, it benefits from occasional misting or a pebble tray to maintain humidity, emulating its native tropical conditions.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Dracaena reflexa is also known for its air-purifying qualities. It can help remove toxins such as formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene from the air, contributing to a healthier indoor environment.

In summary, the Song-of-india is an attractive, easy-to-care-for plant that not only enhances the visual appeal of indoor spaces but also contributes to a healthier living environment. With its striking foliage and adaptable nature, it is no wonder that Dracaena reflexa continues to be a favored choice among plant lovers worldwide.

Common Names

Por: dracena-malaia, pleomele
Swe: guldbandsdracena
Eng: song-of-india
En: Song-of-India, Pleomele, Song of India
Ar: أيدع منعكس
Zh: 百合竹
Fi: Sirotraakkipuu
Fr: Bois de chandelle, Chandelle
Lt: Pleomelė
Ml: ഡ്രസീന റിഫ്ലെക്സ
Fa: درخت گلبانگ هند
Pl: Dracena odwrócona
Pt: Dracena-malaia, Pleomele
Ru: Драцена отогнутая
Sv: Guldbandsdracena
Zh-tw: 百合竹

Synonyms

• Draco reflexa ((Lam.) Kuntze)
• Cordyline reflexa ((Lam.) Endl.)
• Dracaena reflexa var. typica (Baker)
• Lomatophyllum reflexum ((Lam.) Bojer)
• Pleomele reflexa ((Lam.) N.E.Br.)

Distribution

• Aldabra (native)
• Chagos Archipelago (native)
• Comoros (native)
• Madagascar (native)
• Mauritius (native)
• Mozambique (native)
• Rodrigues (native)
• Réunion (native)
• Seychelles (native)
• Belize (introduced)
• Central African Repu (introduced)
• Solomon Is. (introduced)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Habit

Taken Jan 20, 2022 by Thiago de Albuquerque Bierrenbach (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 7, 2013 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 31, 2019 by Pak Alatak (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 7, 2013 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 13, 2017 by Hugo SANTACREU (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Sep 3, 2019 by Cedric Dupont (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 30, 2012 by J. Champ (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 30, 2012 by J. Champ (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 1, 2021 by megaultratom (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 30, 2021 by Silva Karina Cristina (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Apr 23, 2022 by Tahir Mahmood (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 23, 2022 by Tahir Mahmood (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 26, 2021 by Francisco Barbosa de Faria (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 5, 2021 by Robert Pires de Oliveira (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 22, 2019 by ramune ramune (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Mar 29, 2021 by olgarithm (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 9, 2021 by George Henry (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 13, 2017 by Hugo SANTACREU (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 11, 2020 by soza skillet (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 3, 2020 by lynette (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Aug 11, 2022 by Bettina Born (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 7, 2020 by Niwa Kahukiwa (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 10, 2019 by Leonardo Leonardo Trindade De Jesus (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 2, 2021 by Alex Vasilevski (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 13, 2022 by DORSA zaryab (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Nov 1, 2009 by riviere (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 2, 2016 by Hugo SANTACREU (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 1, 2009 by riviere (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 13, 2022 by kyk cat (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 27, 2021 by Schleiche (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5304436)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:534338-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Dracaena reflexa Lam.)

Specifications

Growth