Dracaena surculosa ‘Milky Way’ is an unusual and eye-catching Dracaena with glossy green leaves decorated with creamy-white markings that give the foliage its distinctive speckled appearance. Unlike the upright, strap-leaved Dracaenas you might be more familiar with, this variety develops slender, branching stems and a bushier growth habit, making it a beautiful addition to a bright indoor plant collection.
Scientific Name
Dracaena surculosa ‘Milky Way’
Common Name(s)
Milky Way Dracaena, Gold Dust Dracaena, Spotted Dracaena
Origin
Dracaena surculosa is native to tropical regions of western and central Africa, where it grows beneath the forest canopy in warm, humid conditions.
Light
Prefers bright, indirect light. Good light will help maintain the distinctive creamy markings, but avoid prolonged strong direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. It can tolerate slightly lower light levels, although the variegation may become less pronounced.
Water
Water when the top few centimetres of soil have dried, then water thoroughly and allow excess water to drain away. Avoid keeping the soil constantly wet. Reduce watering during autumn and winter when growth slows.
Humidity
Prefers moderate to high humidity but generally adapts well to average household conditions. Keep away from radiators and other sources of hot, dry air.
Soil
Use a rich but well-draining houseplant mix. Adding perlite and fine orchid bark can help improve drainage and airflow around the roots.
Food
Feed every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser diluted to half strength. Reduce feeding during autumn and winter.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 18–27°C. Protect from cold draughts and sudden temperature changes, and avoid prolonged temperatures below 15°C.
Pet-safe
No. Dracaenas are toxic if ingested by cats and dogs, so keep out of reach of pets.
Sprouts Top Tips
Give ‘Milky Way’ plenty of bright, indirect light to bring out the best in its beautiful patterned foliage. If the stems become long or sparse, they can be pruned back during the growing season to encourage a fuller, bushier plant.
Extras
Unlike many Dracaenas, Dracaena surculosa produces thin, bamboo-like stems with leaves growing in clusters along the branches. Mature, happy plants can also produce small, fragrant flowers, sometimes followed by colourful berries.
Did You Know?
The name ‘Milky Way’ comes from the constellation-like creamy markings scattered across its green foliage. Each leaf develops a slightly different pattern, giving the plant plenty of character.
