Lucky bamboo - Dracaena sanderiana (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Lucky bamboo

Also known as: Belgian evergreen, Goddess of mercy's plant

Though its name suggests otherwise, the lucky bamboo is not actually a bamboo plant. It’s a type of tropical water lily that is thought to bring good luck and prosperity to the home or office. This plant is commonly used in Feng Shui, and the correct placement impacts the flow of positive energy.

Scientific classification

Species

Lucky bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub, Herb

Plant Type

Fall

Bloom Time

All year round

Harvest Time

91 cm to 1.5 m

Plant Height

90 cm to 1.5 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Green

Fruit Color

White

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Fall, Winter

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Lucky bamboo

Distribution of Lucky bamboo

Distribution Map

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

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Tropical forest

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Environmental Protection Value

It can purify air.

Garden Use

Lucky bamboo can easily be grown in shade with moist soil or even in water, making it a perfect addition to an outdoor garden or a shallow pond. The stems on these plants can be trained to form an intricate pattern, or left alone to appreciate the bright green stems and foliage.

Symbolism

Great luck, wealth, an honorable life

Name Story

Lucky bamboo: This plant is not a bamboo species and because the stem has nodes like bamboo, its name carries the word bamboo in it. As for why it is called lucky bamboo, this is entirely based on the Asian culture that the plant brings good hope for the future. People also believed that it brings luck to people, so people tend to use it in the Chinese new year or other occasions.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Lucky bamboo, including the following common varieties :

Ribbon Plant

Toxicity

Lucky bamboo is toxic to cats and dogs. Consumption of the leaves of lucky bamboo can cause symptoms like gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy. It is crucial for pet owners to be vigilant and prevent access to lucky bamboo, seeking prompt veterinary care if ingestion is suspected.

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Quickly Identify Lucky bamboo

Segmented stems resembling bamboo, with prominent nodes

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

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

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

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

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Care Guide for Lucky bamboo

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Lucky bamboo thrives in humid, tropical conditions, preferring consistent moisture and moderate drought tolerance. Water weekly and ensure containers have drainage to prevent root rot. Typically grown indoors, it adapts well to lower light, enhancing its ornamental appeal.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, lucky bamboo thrives on a balanced, high-nitrogen liquid fertilizer at half-strength, every 4-6 weeks in spring/summer, then every 8 weeks in fall/winter. Apply sparingly to prevent root burn, particularly during dormancy to avoid nutrient overload, favoring under-fertilization for health.

Pruning: Lucky bamboo features a slender, bamboo-like structure. Prune during early to late winter to control height and encourage bushiness. Use sterilized shears to cut above a node, and remove dead leaves. Ensure adequate watering post-pruning for recovery and health.

Propagation: Lucky bamboo thrives in water or soil, making propagation easy by cutting a healthy stem with a growth node. Plant in moist soil or water to encourage root growth. Provide consistent moisture and indirect light, avoiding high chlorine or fluoride water for optimal health.

Repotting: Repot your lucky bamboo every 2-3 years during spring for optimal growth. Use a tall container to support root spread. After repotting, keep lucky bamboo in bright, indirect light with slightly moist soil, avoiding overwatering to prevent root rot and ensure healthy growth.

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Images of Lucky bamboo

Distribution of Lucky bamboo

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Lucky bamboo

Care Guide for Lucky bamboo

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