Dracaena draco

The Dracaena draco, also called the Dragon Tree, is one of nature’s most sculptural and dramatic evergreens. Native to the Canary Islands and parts of North Africa, it displays a bold umbrella-shaped canopy formed by thick, arching branches. Its slow growth and grey-blue sword-like leaves create a commanding silhouette in any landscape. The thick trunk often branches after flowering, giving it a unique, tiered architectural form.

Gardeners treasure the Dracaena draco for its unusual bark texture, which secretes a deep red resin known as “dragon’s blood.” This rare feature gives the tree an almost mythical status. Mature specimens can reach up to 10 meters tall, with crowns that widen dramatically as the tree ages. The leaves grow in dense rosettes and are edged with soft red margins, enhancing their ornamental appeal.

• Produces a striking red resin called “dragon’s blood”

• Ideal for arid or Mediterranean-style gardens

• Leaves grow in dense, sword-shaped rosettes

• Withstands drought and coastal conditions well

• Creates strong vertical presence in large pots or gardens

The Dracaena draco stands as a living sculpture, ideal for xeriscaping or as a statement plant in modern garden designs. Its longevity and low maintenance make it suitable for both public and private spaces. Also, its adaptability to different climates adds to its value, whether grown outdoors or as a container specimen in bright indoor spaces.