Common
name: "Song of India"
Latin name: Pleomele reflexa 'Song of India'
Native
to: Madagascar and the Solomon Islands
Growth habit: An upright columnar woody bush usually
not over 4' in height and 40" in width.
Flowers: Yes, but unsightly. Flowers should be
removed.
Temps: Normal indoor temps
Humidity: Not critical. Pests: Watch for mealy
bug.
Lighting:
Pictured
Houseplant:
10" Pleomele Song of India
Houseplant
Cultural
information: This brightly colored plant is actually
a member of the Dracaena family. There are two other similar
varieties, "Song of Jamaica" and "Malaysian
Dracaena".
"Song of India" requires bright indirect natural
lighting to maintain it's coloration. They will also perform well
in artificial light if the lighting is strong and directly over
the plant. "Song of India" is not a large water
consumer. In larger containers allow the surface of the soil to
dry down 3" to 4" between waterings. Small containers
should dry down between 1" to 2". Avoid splashing water
on the foliage. Since this plant is a member of the Dracaena
family only feed it once a year. Stem cuttings are difficult to
propagate. Look
here... for a nicer picture of "Song of
India" foliage.
"Song of India" is available in 6" pots thru 4
foot specimen plants in 14" containers.
