Asparagaceae
Dracaena laxissima
C
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
Dracaena laxissima is a slender, sparsely branched climbing shrub or liana that can reach up to 10 metres high, often sprawling or scrambling in habit. Its lanceolate-elliptic leaves, measuring 7-20 cm long, are arranged alternately and feature a prominent midrib. The plant produces pendulous, branched inflorescences bearing individual greenish-white to pinkish flowers, 12-22 mm long. These develop into globose, orange or orange-red fruits, about 6-12 mm in diameter.
Where it works in Kilifi
This climbing species is well-suited for shaded or semi-shaded areas in a Kilifi-coast garden, reflecting its natural habitat in evergreen and riverine forest understoreys. It can be planted as a specimen trained on a support structure or integrated into restoration plantings along watercourses. Ensure well-draining soil.
Growing notes
Dracaena laxissima is a slow-growing plant that prefers consistently warm temperatures, ideally between 18-30°C. Keep the soil evenly moist but allow the top layer to dry out between waterings, and use purified or rainwater to avoid fluoride toxicity. All parts of the plant are considered toxic to cats and dogs if ingested.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: mozambiqueflora.com, jstor.org, selinawamucii.com, gardendesign.com, proflowers.com, rhs.org.uk. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.