Fauna
Plant

Ceylon Bowstring Hemp

Dracaena zeylanica

Also known as Bowstring Hemp, Zeylanica Snake Plant

Ceylon bowstring hemp grows in dense, upright rosettes of rigid, sword-shaped leaves that thrive in dry environments. The foliage displays dark green surface tones marked with prominent light green wavy cross-bands and pointed tips. Small, fragrant greenish-white flowers occasionally bloom on long nocturnal racemes, giving way to tiny globe-shaped berries.

EvergreenSucculentDrought-Tolerant
Ceylon Bowstring Hemp reference
Francisco Manuel Blanco (O.S.A.) / Public domain · cc0
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyAutotrophic (Photosynthesis)
ThreatsHabitat loss, land conversion
HabitatsDry tropical forests, rocky scrubland, coastal thickets
Life span20–50 years
Classification
  1. FamilyAsparagaceae
  2. SpeciesDracaena zeylanica
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskHigh
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is high
Toxic to dogs and cats if ingested; place out of reach of household pets.
Why it is dangerous
Saponins within the leaf tissues cause gastrointestinal upset, salivation, and nausea if chewed or swallowed by pets.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Stiff, erect sword-like leaves with light green horizontal banding and pointed leaf tips.
What to do
Keep plants out of reach of dogs and cats, and wash hands after trimming damaged leaves.
Responsible observation
  • Watering: Allow the potting medium to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot.
  • Lighting: Provide bright indirect light for fastest growth, though foliage tolerates deep interior shade.
  • Placement: Keep pots elevated or secure away from nibbling domestic pets.
Related species
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