Janet Craig Dracaena
Dracaena fragrans 'Janet Craig'
An architectural powerhouse with deep emerald foliage, the 'Janet Craig' is a cultivar of the Dracaena fragrans species native to tropical Africa. Known for its ability to withstand neglect and poor lighting, it features wide, sword-shaped leaves that grow in a dense rosette. It is a favorite for offices and hallways due to its upright, stately growth habit and air-purifying qualities.
Light
Medium
Water
Moderate
Difficulty
Easy
Humidity
Moderate
Pet Warning
Contains saponins which are toxic to dogs and cats. Ingestion can lead to vomiting (sometimes with blood), depression, anorexia, and hypersalivation. In cats, it may cause dilated pupils.
Care Guide
Janet Craig Care Guide
Light
While it can survive in low light, this plant thrives in medium indirect light. Direct sunlight should be avoided as it can cause brown scorch marks on the leaves.
Water
Allow the top 50% to 75% of the soil to dry out before watering. This plant is sensitive to fluoride and minerals in tap water; using distilled or rainwater can prevent the characteristic brown tips.
Seasonal Care
Spring/Summer: Keep the soil consistently moist but never soggy. This is the time to fertilize.
Fall/Winter: Reduce watering frequency as growth slows. Ensure the plant is kept away from cold drafts and heaters.
Maintenance
Dust the large leaves regularly with a damp cloth to allow the plant to breathe and photosynthesize efficiently. Trim any brown tips with sterilized scissors following the natural curve of the leaf.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Liquid balanced houseplant fertilizer
Soil
Well-draining, peat-based potting soil.
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
10-15 feet indoors if not pruned
Growth Rate
Slow
Propagation
Stem cuttings and air layering.
Common Varieties
Janet Craig Compacta
The 'Janet Craig Compacta' is characterized by its dense, architectural rosettes of short, stiff, lance-shaped leaves in a uniform, deep forest green.
Lisa
The 'Lisa' variety features narrow, sword-shaped leaves of a glossy, solid deep-green hue that grow in a dense, upright habit along thick canes.
Michiko
The 'Michiko' variety features glossy, deep-green, sword-shaped leaves that grow in tight, upright clusters and are distinguished by their unique puckered or rippled texture.