Madagascar dragon tree
Dracaena marginata (Asparagaceae)
Cats and dogs
Toxic to cats and dogs
What makes it toxic: Saponins.
Signs to watch for: Vomiting (occasionally with blood), depression, anorexia, hypersalivation, dilated pupils (cats).
Source: ASPCA entry "Madagascar Dragon Tree", checked October 3, 2026.
Light
- Low light 3+ mol Copes
- Medium light 6+ mol Copes
- Bright indirect 10+ mol Best
- Direct sun 12+ mol
NC State says bright, indirect light is ideal. UF/IFAS calls it one of the best indoor trees for low light, though Iowa State warns that in low light it stretches and bends.
Direct sun: best kept out of it.
On our scale it grows well from about 10 mol/m²/day and holds on down to roughly 0.5 (how these numbers are set).
Care
Care level: Easy. Water: Water thoroughly, then let the soil dry out before watering again.
It is sensitive to fluoride, so non-fluoridated water helps prevent leaf discoloration.
Pet-safe plants for similar light
- Aluminum plant (Pilea cadierei) bright indirect light
- Baby rubber plant (Peperomia obtusifolia) bright indirect light
- Baby's tears (Soleirolia) bright indirect light
- Grape ivy bright indirect light
- Lady palm bright indirect light
- Money tree bright indirect light
Sources
- Toxicity: ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, "Madagascar Dragon Tree"
- Light and care: NC State Extension, "Dracaena reflexa var. angustifolia (Madagascar Dragon Tree)"
- Light and care: UF/IFAS Extension Gardening Solutions, "Dracaena Marginata"
- Light and care: Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, "Easy Low-Maintenance Houseplants"