Dracaena
The Dracaena genus (Dracaena spp.) is a group of about 120 species of trees and shrubs. These plants are native to Africa, Madagascar, and southern Asia. Some of the more popular species include: Dracaena fragrans (Fragrant Dracaena), Dracaena marginata (Red-edge Dracaena), and Dracaena sanderiana (Lucky Bamboo).
Dracaenas are characterized by their long, strappy leaves and can range in height from a few inches to several feet. Some species have variegated leaves with stripes or spots of color. These plants are relatively easy to care for and make excellent houseplants.
A dracaena typically has a long, slender stem and glossy leaves. The plant may be solid green, or it may have striped or variegated leaves. Some common varieties of dracaena include the dragon tree (Dracaena draco) and the corn plant (Dracaena fragrans). Dracaenas are known for their ability to thrive in low-light conditions. They are popular houseplants and are often used as accent plants in commercial settings.
Dracaenas prefer bright, indirect sunlight and well-drained soil. Water when the top inch of soil is dry. These plants are tolerant of a wide range of temperature and humidity levels. Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half. Cut back on fertilizer during the winter.
Dracaenas are susceptible to mealybugs and scale. Inspect new plants carefully before bringing them home and quarantine any suspect specimens. These pests can be difficult to control once they become established. Treat infestations with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Brazil is the top producer of dracaena, with an estimated production of 933 thousand metric tons in 2013. China is the second-largest producer of dracaena, with an estimated production of 700 thousand metric tons in 2013. Kenya is the third-largest producer of dracaena, with an estimated production of 30 thousand metric tons in 2013. Other notable producers of dracaena include Ghana, Ivory Coast, Madagascar, Nigeria, and Tanzania.
Global dracaena production
According to the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), global production of dracaena in 2016 was estimated at 1,011,975 tonnes. The majority of this production came from Brazil (38%), followed by Mexico (22%), Costa Rica (9%), and Guatemala (6%).
The vast majority of dracaena is used for ornamental purposes, with cut flowers accounting for the majority of this use. In 2016, global production of dracaena cut flowers was estimated at 987,975 tonnes. The vast majority of these flowers were produced in Brazil (38%), followed by Mexico (22%), Costa Rica (9%), and Guatemala (6%).
A small portion of global dracaena production is used for medicinal purposes. The majority of this use is in the form of an extract known as dragon's blood, which is used in traditional Chinese medicine. Dragon's blood is said to have a number of health benefits, including the ability to stop bleeding, speed healing, and boost immunity.
Dracaena is also used in a variety of other applications, including as an ingredient in cosmetics and perfumes, as well as in the production of ink and dye.