Dracaena fragrans 'Janet Craig' – Reliable Green Elegance for Indoors

Dracaena fragrans 'Janet Craig' is a classic indoor plant with rich, glossy green leaves and a bold upright form. Known for its tolerance to indoor conditions and forgiving nature, this self-heading cultivar adds lush vertical structure to homes, offices, and shaded corners alike. With slow growth, manageable size, and a clean, architectural look, it's ideal for anyone seeking fuss-free foliage with impact.


Standout Features of Dracaena 'Janet Craig'

Foliage: Broad, lance-shaped leaves in deep glossy green, up to 1 m long on mature plants.
Growth Habit: Upright, cane-based or clumping structure with symmetrical rosettes.
Size Indoors: Reaches 1.2–2 m over time; very slow growth makes it easy to maintain.
Visual Use: Perfect for living rooms, hallways, and low-light offices.


Botanical Information and Native Range
Dracaena fragrans is native to tropical Africa, where it grows in warm forest clearings and open woodlands with filtered light and seasonal rains. 'Janet Craig' is a popular cultivar developed for its dense, dark foliage and compact upright form. It belongs to the Asparagaceae family and contains saponins, which are toxic to pets if ingested.
Dracaena fragrans (L.) Ker Gawl., published in: Botanical Magazine 27: t. 1081 (1808). 


How to Care for Dracaena 'Janet Craig'

Light: Tolerates low light but grows best in bright, indirect light. Avoid strong sun exposure.
Watering: Let the top 2–4 cm of soil dry between waterings. Avoid soggy soil and poor drainage.
Humidity: Tolerates dry indoor air but benefits from moderate humidity levels.
Temperature: Ideal range is 18–24 °C. Avoid drafts and temperatures below 13 °C.
Soil: Use a well-draining houseplant mix with added perlite or orchid bark for aeration.
Fertilizer: Feed every 6–8 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer. No need to stop during winter if the plant continues growing.
Repotting: Every 2–3 years or when roots become compacted. Choose a pot with proper drainage.


Propagation and Toxicity

Propagation: Best via stem cuttings. Root in water or moist soil after allowing ends to callous.
Toxicity: Toxic to cats and dogs due to saponins. Keep out of reach of pets and small children.


Common Issues and Solutions

Yellowing Leaves: Usually from overwatering or compacted soil. Check drainage and reduce frequency.
Brown Leaf Tips: Often caused by dry air, inconsistent watering, or fluoride in tap water. Use filtered water if possible.
Root Rot: Prevent with fast-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes. Remove affected roots immediately.
Pests: May attract spider mites or mealybugs in dry air. Clean leaves regularly and treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap.


Pro Tips for Thriving Growth

Rotate the Plant: Turn every few weeks to ensure balanced growth on all sides.
Avoid Sudden Changes: Dracaena prefers consistency—gradual transitions between light and watering work best.
Clean the Leaves: Gently dust with a damp cloth to keep leaves glossy and pest-free.


Etymology of Dracaena fragrans
The genus name Dracaena is derived from the Greek “drakaina,” meaning “female dragon,” a nod to the red resin some species produce. The species name fragrans refers to the intensely fragrant white flowers produced under ideal outdoor conditions—rarely seen indoors. 'Janet Craig' is a cultivar name honoring the daughter of American nurseryman Robert Craig, who introduced the plant commercially in the early 20th century.


Frequently Asked Questions – Dracaena 'Janet Craig'

How often should I water? Roughly every 10–14 days indoors—always check the top layer of soil first.
Can it tolerate low light? Yes. While it grows more slowly, Dracaena 'Janet Craig' remains healthy in shaded interiors.
Why are my leaves turning yellow? Usually overwatering or poor drainage. Let soil dry more fully and check pot conditions.


Order Dracaena 'Janet Craig' Online
Enjoy classic, evergreen structure with almost no effort. Shop now and add the timeless charm of Dracaena 'Janet Craig' to your space today.