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Pruning guide · Houseplant
Madagascar dragon tree: when and how to prune
Dracaena reflexa var. angustifolia
Madagascar dragon tree is best pruned in April–May.
| Pruning months | April–May |
|---|---|
| Poisonous to people and pets | Yes, take care with children and pets |
Madagascar dragon tree: when to prune it?
In April–May, when the plant becomes too tall or too sparse. Otherwise pruning is not needed.
Madagascar dragon tree: how to prune it?
- Cut or saw through a stem at the height you want with a sharp, clean knife or small saw; usually 2–3 new tufts grow from below the cut.
- Use the removed top as a cutting.
- Trim brown leaf tips at an angle, within the brown part, without cutting into the green.
- Gently pull dry, yellow lower leaves off the stem.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: April–May.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- A houseplant lives indoors, so wildlife hardly notices the pruning. Healthy clippings can go on the compost.
Caution: The sap can irritate the skin: wear gloves and keep prunings away from pets. Madagascar dragon tree is poisonous: wear gloves and keep clippings away from children, pets and livestock.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Madagascar dragon tree · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.