Gold dust dracaena/Dracaena surculosa (Single Plant)

• Common Names: Gold Dust Dracaena, Spotted Dracaena

• Scientific Name: Dracaena surculosa

• Family: Asparagaceae

• Origin: Tropical West Africa

• Growth Habit: Shrubby, slow-growing, upright stems with spotted oval leaves

• Foliage: Glossy green with gold/yellow speckles — the main ornamental appeal

• Mature Height: 2–3 ft (60–90 cm) indoors, taller outdoors in warm climates

🌞 Light Requirements

• Ideal: Bright, indirect light — brings out strong spotting patterns.

• Tolerates: Moderate light, but speckles may fade if too dim.

• Avoid: Harsh direct afternoon sun, which can scorch leaves.

💧 Watering

• Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry.

• Keep slightly moist but never soggy — excess water can cause root rot.

• In winter, reduce watering frequency.

• Prefers rainwater, distilled, or filtered water (sensitive to fluoride and chlorine in tap water).

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity

• Temperature: 18–27 °C (65–80 °F) — protect from cold drafts below 13 °C (55 °F).

• Humidity: Medium to high; appreciates misting or a pebble tray in dry air.

🌱 Soil

• Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral mix.

• Example: 2 parts peat or coco coir + 1 part perlite + 1 part pine bark or compost.

🍽 Fertilization

• Feed every 4–6 weeks in spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength.

• Pause feeding in autumn and winter.

✂️ Pruning & Maintenance

• Remove yellow or damaged leaves to keep plant tidy.

• Can prune leggy stems to encourage bushier growth.

• Wipe leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and keep them glossy.

🌸 Flowers

• Small, fragrant white flowers may appear indoors under good care, but this is uncommon.

• After flowering, berries can form — decorative but not edible.

🪲 Common Problems

• Leaf tip browning: Usually from low humidity, underwatering, or fluoride in water.

• Yellow leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.

• Faded spots: Insufficient light.

• Pests: Watch for spider mites, mealybugs, and scale.

🌿 Propagation

• Best via stem cuttings or air layering in spring/summer.

• Cuttings can be rooted in water or moist potting mix.