This easygoing shrub plant can be *spotted* by its freckled leaves, as well as its upright growth on multiple stems. It's the growth pattern that sometimes gives it the name 'Japanese Bamboo', as the stems look similar to bamboo shoots. Not sure why Japanese though when it's actually from Africa... The mid-green leaves are speckled with paler yellow variegation which comes out more in the sun (like freckles), adding some interesting variegation to the foliage. These plants can grow over 3m tall in the wild, but likely won't grow quite so much as houseplants. Give it plenty of bright light (avoiding harsh midday sun) and let it dry out between waters and it'll give its best shot at growing nice and tall!
Scientific Name
Dracaena surculosa (woody, dragon-like plant)
Synonyms
Dracaena godseffiana (often misspelt as “godsefiana”)
Common Name
Gold Dust Dracaena, Spotted Dracaena, Japanese Bamboo
Origin
Native to tropical West African forests, from Guinea to the Republic of Congo
Light
Your Dracaena will prefer bright indirect light for most of the day but will benefit from an hour or two of morning or evening sun to help dry the soil and maintain the plant's variegation.
Water
Aim to water your plant when the top third of the soil dries out; this plant grows in rainforests where there's plenty of water to be found!
Humidity
This plant likes average humidity best, though can benefit from a hose down to clear it of dust now and again. If your place is really dry, it may appreciate the use of a humidity tray.
Soil
Use a mix that retains moisture well but has some elements to aerate and drain too. A mix of coir, perlite, bark and sand will produce this; look for soil blends designed for Ficus plants for a good balance. Repot every couple of years as the plant grows.
Food
Feed every four waters in the growing season, reduce to every six in autumn and winter.
Temperature
Ideal temperature is 15-24°C; make sure it does not get colder than 12°C in winter.
Pet-safe
No, this plant is toxic to pets and small humans.
Sprouts Top Tips
It can be tricky to find a balance between sun and water with these plants. Crispy brown leaf tips and curling leaves are a sign of too much sun and too little water; you may need to acclimatise your plant to higher light levels more gradually. However, in a shady location, it can be easy to water too frequently; if the soil still feels damp on the top when you go to water your plant, leave it longer before watering or you could find yourself dealing with root rot.
