Identifying and Caring for a Madagascar Dragon Tree

Your 3-foot plant is a Dracaena marginata (Madagascar dragon tree). It's grown 6 inches in the past year and needs proper care to thrive.

Repotting

If repotting, choose a pot with drainage holes no more than 2 inches wider than the current one. Use a mix of 2 parts cheap potting soil to 1 part perlite—avoid moisture-control soil. Water thoroughly, empty the drain tray after an hour, then wait until the soil surface has been dry for 2–4 days before watering again.

Light and Fertilizer

It likes some sun but no more than a couple of hours of direct light daily. Feed with a water-soluble fertilizer like Miracle-Gro at label rates.

Future Pruning

When it gets too tall, you can cut the cane back to any height—it will sprout new growth below the cut. The top can be rooted for a new plant.