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Dracaena ‘White Jewel’

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Dracaena fragrans 'White Jewel'

KNOWN AS: White Jewel Dracaena, Striped Dragon Tree

CLIMATE (LOCATION): Horticultural Hybrid | Tropical Africa (Parentage)

DESCRIPTION: The 'White Jewel' is an exceptionally crisp and clean-looking cultivar. It features wide, dark-green leaves that are boldly striped with bright, snowy-white margins and subtle grey-green interior bands. It has a very upright, architectural habit and stays relatively compact compared to the massive "Corn Plants." It is prized for its ability to brighten up dark corners with its high-contrast, "tuxedo-like" variegation.

Dracaena ‘White Jewel’ Plant Care

Lighting

Light Requirement: Medium Light (Medium Indirect Light) to High Light (Bright Indirect Light); Low Light Tolerant

Because this plant has a high amount of white variegation, its light needs are more specific than solid green varieties.

The Goal: Bright, filtered light. This keeps the white stripes "pure" and prevents them from turning a muddy lime-green.

Low Light: It is very tolerant of low light, but the white variegation will narrow over time as the plant produces more green to compensate for the lack of energy.

Direct Sun: Warning. The white parts of the leaf contain no chlorophyll and will "melt" or brown almost instantly in direct afternoon sun.

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Watering

Quick Tip: Water when the top 50–75% of the soil is dry. Use filtered water.

The Routine: Like all Dracaenas, the 'White Jewel' prefers to be slightly underwatered rather than overwatered. If the soil is soggy, the white parts of the leaves will be the first to turn brown.

Chemical Sensitivity: This variety is particularly prone to fluoride and chlorine spotting.

The Solution: Use distilled, rain, or filtered water. If you see brown "rust" spots in the middle of the white stripes, it is almost certainly a reaction to tap water chemicals.

Temperature

Preferred Temperature: 65º - 80º

Stability: It loves a stable, warm room.

Cold: Keep it away from AC units and cold winter drafts. Temperatures below 55°F can cause "cold spots" (grey, sunken patches) on the leaves.

Humidity

Preferred Humidity: 40 - 60%; Moderate Humidity

Resilience: 'White Jewel' is very adaptable to standard home humidity.

Dry Air: If your air is extremely dry, the white edges may become slightly brittle or brown. A pebble tray or occasional misting is usually sufficient.

Additional Plant Care

Propagation
How to Propagate: Stem Cuttings. Take a leafy top cutting or a section of the cane. Note: The 'White Jewel' is a slow grower. Cuttings can take 2–3 months to establish a strong enough root system for repotting.
Toxicity
Quick Warning: Toxic to cats and dogs. Contains saponins. If ingested, it causes dilated pupils, drooling, and vomiting. Ensure this plant is placed on a stand or in a zone where pets cannot reach the foliage.
Repotting
When to Repot: Only every 2–3 years. They have a small root system and prefer a snug environment. The Pot: Ensure the pot has excellent drainage. Soil: Use a loose, well-aerated potting mix.
Pruning
Grooming: Lower leaves will naturally brown as the plant ages. Pull them off to keep the trunk clean. Cleaning: The white stripes show dust very easily. Wipe with a damp microfiber cloth monthly to keep the "shimmer" and help the plant photosynthesize. Managing Tips: If the tips turn brown due to tap water, you can "manicure" them with sterilized scissors, following the natural shape of the leaf.
Fertilizer
Quick Tip: Feed sparingly; avoid fertilizers with high salts. What to Use: A balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength. When to Apply: Once a month during the active growing season (Spring and Summer). Winter: Do not fertilize in the winter. Tip: Feed very lightly; Dracaenas are not "hungry" plants. What to Use: A balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength. When to Apply: Once a month during the spring and summer. Winter: Stop fertilizing completely in the winter. Forcing growth during the dormant season can lead to weak, spindly leaves.
Soil
Ideal Mix: Fast-draining potting soil. Recommended Blend: 2 parts potting soil to 1 part perlite or pumice. Avoid heavy peat-based soils that stay wet for too long.

Hanging Heights

Dracaena ‘White Jewel’ Lighting Requirements: Medium Light (Medium Indirect Light) to High Light (Bright Indirect Light); Low Light Tolerant

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