Dracaena fragrans

Save

How to grow and care for Dracaena fragrans

Corn plantHouse plantFamily: Asparagaceae

Height: 2mSpread: 1.5m

Flower colour:

White

Foliage colour:

Green

Variegation

This article has been checked for horticultural accuracy by Oliver Parsons.

Dracaena fragrans is an easy-to-care-for house plant with long, wide leaves that can reach 40cm in length. These are produced at the top of a thick, tree-like stem. Also known as corn plant, this house plant is popular for its easy-going nature, ability to thrive in light shade and tropical-looking foliage.

As a house plant, Dracaena fragrans can reach about 2m tall, although it is slow growing. Native to tropical areas of Africa, corn plants can cope with a little drought, making them good plants for beginners. Water only when the surface of the compost is dried out and feed with a liquid fertiliser around once a month or so, from spring to summer. To keep the leaves healthy, wipe off the dust to let more light through to the leaves. Place Dracaeana fragrans in a bright or lightly shaded spot, out of direct sun. Ideally, keep it in a room where the temperature remains above 15ºC but is no higher than 24ºC.

There are several varieties of Dracaena fragrans, including ‘Massangeana’, which has a green-to-yellow stripe down the centre of its leaves. For a smaller space, try ‘Compacta’, which has green leaves and only reaches a height of 90cm. Variegated types with big impact include ‘Lemon Lime’, which has lime-edged deep green leaves, and ‘Janet Craig’, which has wide, glossy-green leaves.

This page contains affiliate links and we may receive a commission for purchases made. Please read our affiliates FAQ page to find out more.

Advice on buying Dracaena fragrans

Check house plants for pests and diseases before buying or on arrival, if ordering online
This plant may also be sold under the name corn plant
There are several varieties of Dracaena fragrans to choose from, including variegated and compact types, so shop around before buying to find one that suits your space

Where to buy Dracaena fragrans

Dracaena ‘fragrans’ and wildlife

Dracaena ‘fragrans’ has no particular known value to wildlife in the UK.

Is Dracaena ‘fragrans’ poisonous?

Dracaena ‘fragrans’ causes an upset stomach and is harmful if ingested. Its foliage is toxic.

Toxic to:

Is known to attract Cats

Cats

Is known to attract Dogs

Dogs

Is known to attract Horses

Horses

No reported toxicity to:

Is not known to attract Birds

Birds

Is not known to attract Livestock

Livestock

Is not known to attract People

People