Dracaena reflexa (Song of India)

Dracaena reflexa, commonly known as Pleomele or Reflexed Dracaena, is an evergreen shrub or small tree in the Asparagaceae family native to northeastern Mozambique and islands of the western Indian Ocean, including Madagascar, Mauritius, Reunion, the Comoros, and Seychelles. It develops slender branching stems topped with dense clusters of narrow, arching leaves and may reach 10-20 feet (3-6 m) outdoors, while remaining much smaller in containers. Numerous ornamental cultivars are grown for their colorful foliage, including 'Song of India', with green leaves broadly edged in yellow or cream, and 'Song of Jamaica', with darker green foliage marked by lighter central bands. The species also includes Dracaena reflexa var. angustifolia, long familiar in horticulture under the name Dracaena marginata, which is distinguished by much narrower, strap-like leaves, commonly edged or flushed with red; several colorful cultivars of this variety are also widely grown.

Dracaena reflexa grows best in bright filtered light or partial shade and fertile, well-drained soil, with moderate watering and some drying between waterings. It is widely grown as a tropical landscape plant and as a durable houseplant in cooler climates. Hardy in USDA Zones 10-12, Dracaena reflexa is valued for its architectural form, attractive foliage, and adaptability to both indoor and tropical landscape conditions.