The Tree Dragon Tree is an evergreen. In perfect conditions, this slow growing tree matures to around 15 meters, but commonly is much smaller. It likes full sun to partial shade. The simple leaves are alternate. They are lanceolate (or sword-shaped). The Tree Dragon Tree blooms with panicles of tiny white flowers, which turn to small bright red berries.
The first part of its scientific name, Dracaena, is a feminine form of the Greek word drakon and therefore means 'female dragon'. The second part, arborea, is Latin and means 'tree-like' for arbor is 'tree'.
Root extracts of the Tree Dragon Tree have long been used locally in many African countries as aphrodisiac to treat sexual inadequacy and to stimulate sexual vigor. Recent research showed that these rumours might even be true[1][2]. In rats, that is.
[1] Wankeu-Nya et al: Effects of Dracaena arborea (Dracaenaceae) on sexual dysfunction in 4 weeks hyperglycemic male rats in Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine – 2014
[2] Watcho et al: Dracaena arborea extracts delay the pro-ejaculatory effect of dopamine and oxytocin in spinal male rats in International Journal of Impotence Research – 2014
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