How to Grow and Care for Dracaena Jade Jewel

The Dracaena fragrans ‘Jade Jewel’ is a cultivar of the common corn plant, Dracaena fragrans. It is distinguished by its foliage, which features broad, deep green centers flanked by defined stripes of white and cream along the margins. This variegation makes it a popular indoor plant. Originating from tropical Africa, it is well-suited for indoor environments.

Jade Jewel Dracaena Care

The Jade Jewel Dracaena thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. An ideal spot is a few feet from an east-facing window. While it tolerates lower light, its growth may slow and variegation can become less pronounced. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves. Rotating the plant periodically ensures all sides receive equal light for even growth.

A well-draining, peat-based potting mix is recommended. The soil should retain some moisture without becoming waterlogged to prevent root rot. You can create a suitable mix by combining two parts peat-based potting soil with one part perlite and one to two parts orchid bark. This improves both aeration and drainage.

Allow the top 75% of the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent overwatering. Water thoroughly until it flows from the drainage holes, and then discard any excess from the saucer. This species is sensitive to fluoride and other minerals found in tap water. Using filtered, distilled, or rainwater is recommended to avoid mineral buildup in the soil.

This Dracaena prefers a stable indoor climate with temperatures between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Protect the plant from temperatures below 55 degrees and from cold drafts. While content in average household humidity, it will benefit from increased moisture provided by regular misting. During the spring and summer growing season, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer for indoor plants about once a month.

Pruning and Repotting

Pruning helps maintain the plant’s appearance. You can trim away any brown leaf tips with clean, sharp scissors, following the natural shape of the leaf. It is natural for lower leaves to yellow and fall off as the plant ages. These can be gently pulled off or cut at the base if they do not detach easily. Wiping the leaves with a damp cloth periodically will keep them free of dust.

Repotting is necessary when the plant becomes root-bound, indicated by roots growing from the drainage holes. Select a new container that is one to two inches wider in diameter. Gently remove the plant, inspect the roots, and place it in the new pot with a fresh, well-draining mix. This process is best done in the spring or summer during the plant’s active growth phase.

How to Propagate Jade Jewel Dracaena

Propagation is done with stem cuttings during the spring growing season. Use clean pruners to cut an eight-inch section from the main stem. After making the cut, remove the leaves from the lower portion of the stem to expose the nodes for rooting.

You can root the cutting in either water or soil. For water rooting, place the stem in a jar of clean water, ensuring the lower nodes are submerged. Change the water regularly, and roots should develop within a few weeks to two months. For soil propagation, dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting it in a pot with moist, well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist, and new leaf growth should appear in about three weeks.

Common Jade Jewel Dracaena Problems

Brown leaf tips are a common issue, often caused by minerals like fluoride in tap water or by low humidity. To prevent this, switch to filtered or distilled water for watering. If the air in your home is dry, occasional misting can provide the necessary humidity.

Yellowing leaves are a sign of overwatering, which can lead to root rot. If you notice yellowing on upper or middle leaves, check the soil’s moisture. Allow the soil to dry out more thoroughly between waterings to let the roots recover.

The Jade Jewel can be affected by spider mites and mealybugs, especially in dry air. These pests often hide on the undersides of leaves and in the nodes, so inspect your plant regularly. If pests are found, they can be managed by spraying the plant with an insecticidal soap solution.

Jade Jewel Dracaena Toxicity

The Dracaena ‘Jade Jewel’ is toxic to both cats and dogs because it contains compounds called saponins. If a pet ingests any part of the plant, it can lead to several symptoms. Keep this plant in a location that is inaccessible to pets.

Symptoms of ingestion include:

• Vomiting, sometimes with blood
• Drooling
• Loss of appetite
• Depression
• Dilated pupils (in cats)