Dracaena braunii 'Borinquensis': The Variegated Lucky Bamboo

The Ribbon Plant Variegated Form

Dracaena braunii 'Borinquensis' (Variegated Form), known as Lucky Bamboo, Ribbon Plant, or Ribbon Dracaena, is the popular variegated cultivar of the ubiquitous "lucky bamboo"—which is not a bamboo at all, but a dracaena.

Botanical Clarification

Striped Stems & Foliage

This cultivar features the classic segmented, cane-like stems but with leaves boldly striped lengthwise in green and creamy white to yellow. The stems can be trained into spirals, hearts, and other shapes. It's typically grown hydroponically in water with pebbles, but thrives in soil too.

'Borinquensis' prefers bright, indirect light (direct sun scorches the variegation). In water: change weekly, use distilled/rain water (fluoride sensitive). In soil: well-draining mix, water when top inch dry. Minimum 60°F. Easy, long-lived, and culturally significant.

Feng Shui & Gift Plant

Central to Feng Shui practices—number of stalks carries specific meanings (3=happiness, 5=health, 8=wealth, 21=blessings). The variegated form adds brightness. A universal gift plant for housewarmings, offices, and celebrations. Nearly indestructible with basic care. Not a true bamboo—no running rhizomes.