Key Information
Draco Trees
| Species | Dracaena draco, Dracaena cinnabari, Dracaena americana, Dracaena reflexa, Dracaena ombet, Dracaena serrulata |
| Height | Up to 49 ft |
| Diameter | Up to 16 ft |
| Classification | Tracheophytes > Monocots > Asparagaceae |
| Conservation Status | Endangered |
| Habitat | Dry or Subtropical Environments |
Learning Point
- Dragon Trees are part of a group of plants called Dracaena which include bushes, plants and trees. They are famous for having red sap which was used to create the colour dragon’s blood, though that colour is often made from other plants in modern times. The trees have a unique appearance, their branches splitting in two repeatedly.
Project
- Draw a picture of a Dragon Tree
- Overview
- Species
- Fruit
Location
| Places | Africa, Europe, Central America |
Fun Facts
- No one knows why the colour of the sap was first called dragon’s blood, but the Romans and Greeks used it.
- The sap has been used to make dyes and paints, varnish for violins, and even a type of toothpaste!
- The Socotra Dragon Tree is the most recognizable, very alien in its appearance, and its branches keep splitting in to two.
- Most Dragon Trees are endangered, mainly because of climate change and humans destroying their habitat.
Past Lessons
| 128 | May 29, 2024 | (North America) |