Dracaena 'Tornado' Dracaena fragrans 'Tornado', 4"

Quick Description

The Dracaena ‘Tornado’ is an eye-catcher with its bright yellow, almost lime green leaf edges, and emerald green center.

Key Information and Plant Overview

• Other Common Names: Tornado Dracaena, Tornado Dragon Tree
• Binomial Name: Dracaena fragrans ‘Tornado’
• Care Level: Easy
• Light: Bright to medium, indirect
• Water: Allow the top 2” of soil to dry
• Pet Friendly: No

The twisty tornado is here! The Dracaena ‘Tornado’ is an eye-catcher with its bright yellow, almost lime green leaf edges, and emerald green center. Each leaf curls and twists arranging in a circular pattern. This plant will surely add a pop of color and interest to your urban jungle.

PlantX Top Tip: To prevent elongation and leggy growth, rotate the plant and keep it in brighter light conditions. 

How to Care for Dracaena ‘Tornado’

• Light: Prefers bright to medium indirect light. No direct sun as the leaves can burn.
• Water: Allow the top 2” of the soil to dry before watering.
• Humidity: Average relative humidity of 25% to 49%
• Temperature: Average from 18°C to 24°C (65°F - 75°F)
• Fertilizer: Follow a monthly fertilizing schedule when the plant is actively growing. In most cases, this is in the spring and summer. Use a balanced fertilizer - this means a ratio of NPK that is all the same. Ex: 10-10-10.
• Soil: Use a well-draining, high organic matter soil mix.
• Propagation: Stem cuttings and division
• Repotting: This can be done every 12-18 months. Choose a pot that is 2” larger in diameter than the original pot.
• Cleaning Tip: Remove dried or damaged leaves by firmly grasping the leaf at its base and gently tugging. 
• Toxicity: Toxic. Always keep plants away from children and pets.

Dracaena ‘Tornado’ - Common Problems

The young leaves are shedding and falling: This could be a sign of underwatering and lack of light. If this is the case, move your plant to a brighter location and change your watering routine. If the old leaves are shedding and falling, don’t be alarmed. This is a natural process that happens due to maturity.

The tips of the leaves are turning yellow and brown: Dracaenas can be sensitive to tap water. If this continues, switch to using distilled water, rainwater, or set a glass of water out overnight to reduce the chlorine content. Ensure your watering routine is consistent.

How often should I fertilize my Dracaena: Follow a monthly fertilizing schedule when the plant is actively growing. In most cases, this is in the spring and summer. Use a balanced fertilizer - this means a ratio of NPK that is all the same. Ex: 10-10-10.

Signs of Overwatering: New growth becomes soft and brown and the leaves begin to drop.

Common Pests: Scale, spider mites, and thrips.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I water my dracaena? A good rule of thumb is to allow the top 2” of the soil to dry before watering. You can test the soil moisture by placing your finger in the soil, if it feels damp - don’t water, if it feels dry - water.