Growing a Brazilian lucky wood plant indoors: A guide



Whether you’re superstitious or not, the Brazilian lucky wood plant (Dracaena fragrans) brings positive energy into your home. This plant symbolizes resilience and good fortune, making it a great addition if you’re interested in feng shui. NASA has even suggested that this plant can help purify indoor air by removing pollutants.

The fragrans in its scientific name indicates sweet-smelling flowers that bloom infrequently but release a lovely fragrance at night. This low-maintenance houseplant thrives in bright, indirect light but can also tolerate darker environments. It’s a great option for beginners looking for an easy-to-care-for plant, although it’s important to note that all parts of the plant are toxic to pets.



Luck out with your Brazilian lucky wood plant

There are several varieties of Brazilian lucky wood plants to choose from. These plants can grow quite tall, but keeping them in smaller pots can help manage their size. You can also trim them to fit smaller spaces. For those with lower ceilings, consider cultivars like ‘Janet Craig’ or ‘Compacta’ that stay under 6 feet tall.

Brazilian lucky wood plants can grow in water indefinitely but also require well-draining potting soil. They prefer bright to medium indirect light and should be protected from direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn. While they can tolerate low light, brighter indirect light will promote lush growth and potential flowering.

Brazilian lucky wood flowering feats

Encouraging Brazilian lucky wood plants to flower indoors can be a challenge, but it’s achievable with proper care. Fertilizing, providing adequate light, moisture, and humidity are key factors in promoting blooming.

To help your plant reach its flowering potential, keep it in a warm area with sufficient humidity levels. Water and fertilize regularly, adjusting the frequency based on the season. Older plants are more likely to produce flowers, although flowering may occur only every few years. When it does bloom, enjoy the continuous display of flowers and delightful scent for weeks on end.

Reg Miller Award
Reg Miller Award

Reg Miller Award recipient, Lewis Lydon with OA Chairman, Pete Shadbolt and CEO, Lechelle Earl.