Dragon Tail Plant, also known as Epipremnum pinnatum ‘Cebu Blue,’ is a popular houseplant known for its unique and striking appearance. This tropical plant features long, glossy leaves that resemble the scales of a dragon, with a blue-green hue that adds a touch of serenity to any room.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the Dragon Tail Plant also offers numerous benefits, including air purification and stress reduction. It’s also relatively easy to care for and propagate, making it a popular choice for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Dragon Tail Plant, including its price range, benefits, care requirements, and propagation methods. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or just starting your green thumb journey, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to keep your Dragon Tail Plant thriving.
Botanical Classification of Dragon Tail Plant
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Clade | Tracheophytes |
| Clade | Angiosperms |
| Clade | Monocots |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Epipremnum |
| Species | Epipremnum pinnatum |
| Cultivar | ‘Cebu Blue’ |
Benefits of Dragon Tail Plant
Dragon Tail Plant offers numerous benefits beyond its striking appearance. Here are some of the benefits of this plant:
- Air Purification: Like many other houseplants, Dragon Tail Plant can help purify the air by removing harmful toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene.
- Stress Reduction: Research has shown that simply being around plants can help reduce stress and anxiety levels, and the calming blue-green color of the Dragon Tail Plant can add to this effect.
- Easy Care: Dragon Tail Plant is relatively low maintenance and can tolerate a range of lighting conditions, making it a great choice for those new to plant care.
- Natural Decor: The unique, dragon-like appearance of the leaves adds an interesting touch to any room, making it a great natural decor piece.
- Health Benefits: According to traditional medicine, the Dragon Tail Plant has medicinal properties and can be used for various health benefits such as reducing fever and inflammation.
How To Take Care of Dragon Tail Plant
| Characteristics | Description |
|---|---|
| Light | Can tolerate low to medium light conditions, but prefers bright, indirect light |
| Watering | Likes to be kept slightly moist, but can tolerate periods of drought. Overwatering can lead to root rot. |
| Temperature | Prefers temperatures between 60-85°F (15-29°C) and can tolerate a range of humidity levels. |
| Soil | Well-draining soil is recommended. |
| Fertilizer | Can benefit from occasional fertilization during the growing season. |
| Propagation | Easily propagated through stem cuttings placed in water or soil. |
| Pests | Can be susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. |
| Diseases | Can be prone to root rot if overwatered. |
Propagation Guide for Dragon Tail Plant
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to propagate Dragon Tail Plant:
- Prepare the cuttings: Select a healthy stem with several leaves and nodes. Using a sharp, clean pair of scissors or pruning shears, cut the stem just below a node. Remove the lower leaves from the stem, leaving only 1-2 leaves at the top.
- Optional: Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone powder to help promote root growth.
- Place the cuttings in water or soil: You can propagate the cuttings either in water or soil.
- For water propagation: Place the cutting in a clean glass jar or vase filled with water. Make sure that the lower nodes are submerged in the water. Place the jar in a bright, warm location away from direct sunlight. Change the water every few days and keep the water level consistent.
- For soil propagation: Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone powder and insert them into a pot filled with well-draining potting mix. Make sure to cover the lower nodes with soil. Water the soil thoroughly and place the pot in a bright, warm location away from direct sunlight.
- Monitor and maintain: Check the cuttings regularly for signs of growth and root development. For water propagation, once the roots are around 1-2 inches long, you can transfer the cuttings into soil. For soil propagation, once the cuttings have rooted and started to grow new leaves, you can transplant them into larger pots.
- Care for the new plants: Once the cuttings have rooted and started to grow, care for them as you would for a mature Dragon Tail Plant by following the steps in the care guide.
By following these steps, you can propagate your Dragon Tail Plant and create new plants to enjoy or share with friends and family.
Price of Dragon Tail Plant
In general, smaller Dragon Tail plants can cost anywhere from $10 to $30, while larger, more established plants can range from $50 to $100 or more. Rare or hard-to-find varieties may also command higher prices.
Additionally, the price of Dragon Tail plants can also vary based on where you purchase them. Local plant nurseries and garden centers may charge more than online retailers, but you may also have the benefit of being able to inspect the plant in person before buying.
It’s worth noting that, while the price of a Dragon Tail plant may seem high, they are relatively easy to care for and can make an attractive addition to any indoor or outdoor space. With proper care, these plants can thrive for many years, making them a worthwhile investment for any plant enthusiast.
