Dracaena marginata Leaf Yellowing and Pruning After Purchase

Normal Acclimation for a New Madagascar Dragon Tree

Raymond's new Dracaena marginata yellowed and dropped a few lower leaves after a faucet watering. He asks how to prune yellow tips and whether to remove whole leaves.

What's Happening

Lower leaf loss is normal when a marginata is relocated—it sheds older leaves as it adds new ones on top. The plant appears to be stabilizing after 3 weeks.

Pruning Guidelines

• Whole leaf yellow/brown: Remove entire leaf at the stem attachment.
• Tip burn only: Trim discolored tip with sharp scissors at an angle for a natural point.
• Neither affects other leaves.

Ongoing Care

Place near a sunny window. Water thoroughly when top ¼ of soil is dry. If tap water is hard, use filtered, distilled, or rainwater.