Dracaena bacularis, also known as Sansevieria bacularis or the “Mikado” plant, features slender, upright, cylindrical leaves. Its distinctive, vertical form creates a modern aesthetic. This easy-to-care-for houseplant is popular with both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts due to its low maintenance.
Dracaena Bacularis Care
Light Needs
Dracaena bacularis thrives in bright, indirect light. An east or west-facing window, providing gentle morning or afternoon sun, is ideal. While the plant tolerates lower light, insufficient light can lead to slower growth and less vibrant foliage. Direct, intense sunlight can scorch its leaves, causing discoloration.
Watering Schedule
Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. Check soil moisture by inserting a finger two inches deep into the potting mix. If dry, water thoroughly until it drains from the pot’s bottom. Adjust watering frequency seasonally, reducing it in cooler winter months.
Soil Requirements
Dracaena bacularis requires a well-draining potting mix. A specialized succulent or cactus blend is recommended, as these mixes provide excellent drainage and aeration. Incorporating perlite or coarse sand into a standard potting mix improves drainage. This helps prevent waterlogging, which can be detrimental to the plant’s root system.
Temperature and Humidity
This plant prefers average room temperatures, between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). It tolerates typical household humidity and does not require high humidity. Protect the plant from sudden temperature drops or cold drafts, especially during winter.
Fertilizing
Dracaena bacularis has modest nutritional needs, requiring infrequent fertilization. During its active growing season (spring and summer), apply a balanced liquid fertilizer. Dilute the fertilizer to half the strength recommended on the product label before application. Do not fertilize during the dormant winter months.
Propagating Dracaena Bacularis
Propagating Dracaena bacularis is done with leaf cuttings. Select a healthy, mature leaf and use a clean, sharp knife to cut it into 2-4 inch segments. Note the “up” end for proper rooting. Allow the cut ends to callus for a few days in a dry, open area before planting.
Once callused, insert the bottom end of each segment about an inch deep into a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil lightly moist and place the pot in bright, indirect light. Rooting can take several weeks to a few months, with new plantlets emerging from the base. Division, separating offsets from the main plant, is another effective method.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Yellowing leaves on Dracaena bacularis indicate overwatering, where roots sit in wet soil. Reduce watering frequency and ensure adequate drainage. If leaves become mushy, particularly at the base, it signals severe root rot from overwatering. In such cases, repot the plant in fresh, dry soil after inspecting and trimming any rotted roots.
Brown tips suggest underwatering or low humidity. Increase watering slightly, ensuring the soil is thoroughly moistened. Slow or stunted growth indicates insufficient light; move the plant to a brighter location.
Plant Safety and Placement
Dracaena bacularis contains compounds mildly toxic if ingested, especially for pets. The sap can cause oral irritation, vomiting, or diarrhea in animals. For safety, place the plant out of reach. This includes high shelves, plant stands, or rooms inaccessible to curious pets and young children.