Dracaena surculosa aka Gold Dust Dracaena

Taxonomy ID: 1206

Dracaena surculosa, commonly known as the Gold Dust Dracaena or Spotted Dracaena, is a species of flowering plant in the family Asparagaceae, native to west and west-central tropical Africa, from Guinea to the Republic of the Congo. Its cultivar 'Florida Beauty' has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. It is an excellent choice for anyone wanting a hardy but stunning houseplant that tolerates heavy pruning and neglect. It grows to only about 2 ft (0.6 m) and has bright green leaves spotted with yellow speckles. The genus name Dracaena comes from the Greek for ‘female dragon’, and these plants are known for being super easy to care for as they can go months without water, and can grow well in low sunlight.

Common names

Gold Dust Dracaena, Spotted Dracaena, Bambu Jepang, Florida Beauty

More information about Gold Dust Dracaena

How difficult is it to take care of Gold Dust Dracaena

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Gold Dust Dracaena due to its easy-going nature.

What is the growth pattern and size of Gold Dust Dracaena?

Gold Dust Dracaena grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.

What is the region of origin of Gold Dust Dracaena

Gold Dust Dracaena’s native range is Africa to Southern Asia and Australia.

What are the water needs for Gold Dust Dracaena

Gold Dust Dracaena does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.

What is the right soil for Gold Dust Dracaena

Gold Dust Dracaena loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

What is the sunlight requirement for Gold Dust Dracaena

To ensure optimal growth, the Gold Dust Dracaena prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

What's the right humidity for Gold Dust Dracaena

Gold Dust Dracaena plants thrive in dry environments, however, if you choose to provide extra humidity or mist your plant, the lingering water on the leaves can create an ideal environment for certain types of harmful fungi.

How to fertilize Gold Dust Dracaena

The Gold Dust Dracaena grows at a slow pace and doesn't require any supplementary fertilizers. By renewing its potting soil once a year, it should receive enough nourishment. Remember, plants obtain their energy from sunlight, not fertilizers.

Is Gold Dust Dracaena toxic to humans/pets?

Gold Dust Dracaena is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.

What seasonal care does Gold Dust Dracaena need?

During the wintertime, it's common for Gold Dust Dracaena to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.

Is Gold Dust Dracaena flowering?

Yes, if you provide it with the correct amount of sunlight and water, you can witness your Gold Dust Dracaena blooming.

More info:
Wikipedia