Dracaena angolensis (Dracaena angolensis)
Dracaena angolensis is a succulent herb with an upright to spreading habit, with leaves arranged from the base in a rosette-like fan; 'Boncel' is especially characterized by a fan-shaped form spreading outward from the base. It is reported to be perennial.
Overview
Dracaena angolensis is a succulent herb with an upright to spreading habit, with leaves arranged from the base in a rosette-like fan; 'Boncel' is especially characterized by a fan-shaped form spreading outward from the base. It is reported to be perennial.
Origin and habitat
It is reported to be native to Angola.
Characteristics
It is reported to grow slowly. Sources describe the leaves differently: they are fleshy, leathery, hairless, gray-green to green with longitudinal striping, and nearly cylindrical; the typical form has stiff, slender leaves, while 'Boncel' has thicker, shorter leaves. The fragrant, white to pinkish tubular flowers are borne in upright racemes, with reflexed perianth segments and conspicuously projecting white stamens. It is reported to flower in summer and to produce fleshy red to burgundy berries when mature; it also generally stores water in its leaves.
Light
Sources differ on light guidance, describing bright conditions to part shade; indoors, a bright window is suggested, while outdoors in summer, morning sun is preferred because strong sunlight can cause sunburn. It is generally described as suitable for bright light or part shade.
Watering
It is drought-tolerant and is grown in a well-draining medium, with watering less frequent in winter than during the growing season.
Temperature and dormancy
The few available source reports indicate a minimum temperature of about 12.8 °C to about 12.7777777778 °C. It is reported to tolerate high temperatures.
Growing medium and mounting
A well-draining potting medium, including one intended for cacti and succulents, is reported to be suitable; the plant can also adapt to sandy or shallow, stony, relatively dry soil. It is generally reported to need a fast-draining mix.
Propagation
It is reported to be propagated by leaf cuttings, which can root and eventually produce new plants from their bases.
Common problems
Reported pests include greenhouse thrips, fern scale, and longtailed mealybug. It is reported to tolerate drought and heat, while strong summer sunlight can cause sunburn when the plant is moved outdoors; morning sun is therefore recommended, and the source also advises bringing the plant indoors when temperatures become sufficiently low.
Identification
'Boncel' is reported to differ from the typical form in having thicker, shorter, nearly cylindrical leaves that spread conspicuously outward from the base in a fan, giving it a starfish-like appearance.