With these essential tips, you will learn how to keep this exotic and elegant plant vibrant
Submitted at Jun 10, 2025, 10:01 AM
This plant, like other species, has its particularities and specific needs to grow healthy and lush. If you have a water stick at home or are thinking of getting one, this complete guide will provide the information you need to ensure it thrives.
(Petz/Divulgação)
The Dracaena fragrans is native to the tropical forests of Africa, in countries like Ethiopia, Sudan, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe. In its natural habitat, it can reach impressive heights, growing several meters tall, with a woody and branched trunk that resembles a small palm tree or a tree.
The common name "water stick" derives precisely from this feature of its trunk, which has a robust appearance and, in some cases, can be cultivated in containers with water, reinforcing the idea of its association with the water element.
Although it can be grown in water for a limited time, particularly when it is a seedling, it is important to emphasize that for healthy long-term development, it must be planted in soil. Other popular names include "water dracaena", "broom palm", and "trunk plants".
The term "fragrans" in its scientific name refers to its small white and fragrant flowers, which, although rare in domestic projects, exude a sweet and pleasant aroma when they bloom.
(We Flores/Divulgação)
The genus Dracaena is vast and diverse, encompassing a wide variety of species, each with its unique characteristics. What distinguishes the water stick (Dracaena fragrans) from other dracaenas is mainly its shape and trunk development.
While many dracaenas have a more bushy and branched growth from the base, the Dracaena fragrans is notable for its woody and sturdy trunk. Its leaves are long, lance-shaped, and generally have a glossy dark green color, with some varieties displaying yellow or cream stripes.
This structure of the trunk, often pruned to promote branching and the growth of multiple crowns of leaves, gives it a more sculptural and vertical appearance, ideal for filling larger spaces and adding height to the landscaping design.
Additionally, the Dracaena fragrans is known for its ability to purify the air, removing toxins such as benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, and xylene, making it an excellent option for improving indoor air quality.
(Pinterest/Divulgação)
Taking care of the water stick is relatively simple but requires attention to some details to ensure its healthy development.
The water stick prefers bright indirect light. Direct and intense sunlight can burn its leaves, while a lack of light can inhibit its growth and leave the leaves pale. Environments near windows with thin curtains or in places where the light is filtered are ideal.
Watering is one of the most important points in caring for the water stick. It enjoys moisture but not sogginess. Ideally, water when the substrate is dry on the surface (about 2-3 cm deep). To check, stick your finger in the soil. In summer, watering can be more frequent; in winter, reduce the frequency. Good drainage in the pot is essential to avoid water accumulation and root rot.
Use a well-draining substrate rich in organic matter. A mixture of potting soil, coconut fiber, and coarse sand is a good option. The ideal soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral (between 6.0 and 7.0).
(Lauren Gutierrez/Flickr/Divulgação)
The water stick develops best in temperatures between 18°C and 27°C. It does not tolerate frost or very low temperatures. As for humidity, being a tropical plant, it appreciates environments with high humidity. If the air in your home is too dry, especially during times of air conditioning or heating, mist the leaves regularly or place the pot on a plate with stones and water to increase humidity around the plant.
During spring and summer, active growth periods, fertilize the water stick every two months with a balanced liquid fertilizer, following the manufacturer's instructions. In autumn and winter, fertilization can be suspended or reduced.
Pruning is essential to maintain the desired shape and stimulate new leaf growth. You can prune the main trunk to encourage branching or remove dry and damaged leaves. Use clean and sharp pruning shears.
The water stick is relatively easy to propagate by cuttings. Cut a piece of the trunk (at least 10-15 cm with some nodes) or a lateral branch. Remove the leaves from the lower part of the cutting and plant it directly in moist substrate or place it in a container with water until the roots develop. Change the water regularly to avoid rot. Once the roots are well-developed, plant the cutting in a pot with suitable substrate.
(Be Green/Divulgação)
The versatility and sculptural beauty of the water stick make it an excellent addition to various projects in the house, both in internal and external areas (in suitable climates).
When choosing the ideal location, always remember the light and humidity needs of your water stick dracaena. Avoid placing it in areas with direct air conditioning, heaters, or drafts, which can dry out the leaves and harm its development. With proper care, your water stick will be a source of beauty and well-being in your home for many years.
CASACOR Publisher is an exclusive content creation agent developed by the CASACOR Technology team based on the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho.
