Pot diameter 6cm
Care for Dracaena fragrans 'Kanzi'
Dracaena fragrans 'Kanzi' is an elegant and very rewarding dracaena cultivar, characterized by broad, dark green leaves with bright white to cream edges. Unlike the demanding Aphelandra, 'Kanzi' is a complete easy-going plant – ideal for those who want a striking plant but don't have time for daily care.
Watering
Dracaenas are masters of water management, as they store it in their stems.
When to water: Allow the substrate to dry out to at least 1/2 to 2/3 of the pot's depth. In winter, let almost the entire root ball dry out.
Beware of extremes: 'Kanzi' dislikes overwatering. If it stands in water, the leaves will start to brown and the stem may soften at the base. It is better to skip one watering than to give one too many.
Water: It reacts sensitively to fluorides and salts in tap water (causing dry tips). Distilled or filtered water is ideal.
Light
This cultivar loves light, but can survive in less ideal conditions.
Placement: It thrives best in bright, indirect light.
Lack of light: It can tolerate partial shade, but its white margins will not be as contrasting, and growth will slow down significantly.
Direct sun: Strong sun can "bleach" the leaves or create dry spots on them.
Temperature and Air
Ideal temperature: 18–24 °C. It does not tolerate frost and temperatures below 12 °C.
Humidity: It is very tolerant of dry apartment air. However, if the leaf tips are brown even with proper watering, occasional misting or showering will benefit it.
Cleanliness: 'Kanzi's' broad leaves are a magnet for dust. Regular wiping with a damp cloth will help it photosynthesize better and highlight its shine.
Fertilization and Growth
Fertilization: Very sparingly. From spring to autumn, once a month with liquid fertilizer for palms or green plants (at half strength). Do not fertilize at all in winter.
Growth: It grows slowly and upright. Over time, it may shed lower leaves, creating a clean stem, which is a natural process for dracaenas to form a "trunk."
Substrate
It needs a light and airy mixture that does not retain moisture for too long.
Composition: Potting mix for houseplants mixed with sand or perlite in a 3:1 ratio.
Drainage: Essential. Dracaena roots are sensitive and die very quickly in wet conditions.
