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Lucky bamboo

How to identify Lucky bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)

Lucky bamboo, also known as Belgian evergreen, Goddess of mercy's plant

Lucky bamboo is often mistaken for a bamboo due to its straight, erect stems which feature prominent nodes giving it a segmented look. Its lance-shaped leaves gracefully arch, ranging from 4-8 inches (10-20 cm) in length and exhibit a glossy, rich green coloration. The flexibility of its growth conditions means it can thrive in both soil and water mediums. When grown in water, the translucent roots can create an intriguing visual against the pebbles that are typically placed at the base for support. These key characteristics make lucky bamboo a distinctive and adaptable ornamental plant.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Shrub, Herb

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Lucky bamboo

1

Segmented stems resembling bamboo, with prominent nodes

2

Lance-shaped leaves, 4-8 inches (10-20 cm) long, glossy green color

3

Delicate white flowers, 0.2 inches (5 mm) in diameter, star-shaped petals

4

Smooth, fleshy stem, 0.5-1 inch (1.3-2.5 cm) diameter, green with nodes

5

Leaves 6-10 inches (15-25 cm) long, 1-1.5 inches (2.5-4 cm) wide, pointed tips

Lucky bambooLucky bambooLucky bambooLucky bambooLucky bamboo

Detailed Traits of Lucky bamboo

Leaf Features

The leaves of lucky bamboo are bright green to gray-green and have a strappy, lanceolate shape. They are typically 6 to 10 inches (15 to 25 cm) long and about 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5 to 4 cm) wide. The leaves are arranged alternately and widely spaced along the upright stems. Their texture is smooth, with a slightly glossy surface, and they possess a prominent central vein. Each leaf tapers to a pointed tip, distinguishing them from other similar plants.

Leaf Shape

Lanceolate ,
Ensiform

Lucky bamboo Leaf Shape image
Leaf Type

Simple

Leaf Base

Attenuate

Leaf Arrangement

Alternate

Lucky bamboo Leaf Arrangement image
Leaf Apex

Acuminate

Leaf Margin

Entire

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Flower Features

The flowers of lucky bamboo are small, delicate, and white, forming in clusters. Each flower measures around 0.2 inches (5 mm) in diameter. The petals are slender and star-shaped, creating a visually enchanting display. Although rarely blooming as a house plant, when they do, their subtle yet sweet fragrance adds to the charm. The blooming period is irregular, but when it occurs, it offers a brief, delightful sight.

Corolla Type

Tubular

Inflorescence Type

Raceme

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Stem Features

The stem of lucky bamboo is thick and fleshy, exhibiting a vibrant green color that closely resembles bamboo. It typically grows to a diameter of about 0.5 to 1 inch (1.3 to 2.5 cm), and its texture is smooth, providing a sturdy structure. Branching occurs occasionally, creating a layered appearance. Notably, the stem has a segmented look, marked with nodes and internodes, which enhances its bamboo-like appearance and aids in its identification.

Lucky bamboo Stem image
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Fruit Features

Fruit Type

Berry

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Key Facts About Lucky bamboo

Attributes of Lucky bamboo
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Shrub, Herb
Plant Height
91 cm to 1.5 m
Spread
90 cm to 1.5 m
Leaf Color
Green
Flower Size
2.5 cm
Flower Color
White
Fruit Color
Green
Stem Color
Green
Leaf type
Evergreen
The Toxicity of Lucky bamboo
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Scientific Classification of Lucky bamboo

Family
Asparagus
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Species
Lucky bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)
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Distribution Map of Lucky bamboo

Lucky bamboo originates from western Central Africa to northeast Angola, where it grows below the canopy of tropical rainforests. It's an accepted plant that isn't considered invasive.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
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