Rhaphidophora decursiva 'Dragon's Tail'

Rhaphidophora decursiva, commonly known as Dragon’s Tail, is a stunning tropical climbing aroid known for its dramatic foliage and vigorous growth. Young plants feature glossy, elongated green leaves, while mature plants develop large, deeply divided leaves that resemble a dragon’s tail. Native to tropical regions of Asia, this impressive climber makes a beautiful statement plant and thrives when given a moss pole or other vertical support.

Key Features:

Dragon’s Tail is a fast-growing climbing plant that can reach 1.5–3 metres (5–10 feet) or more indoors with proper support. Its leaves become larger and develop more dramatic divisions as the plant matures. Providing a moss pole or trellis encourages healthy climbing and mature foliage.

Pet Friendliness:

Not pet-friendly.  It contains calcium oxalates, which can be toxic to cats, dogs, and other pets if ingested. Keep it out of reach of pets and small children.

Care Instructions:

Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate medium light, but growth may slow and leaves may remain smaller. Avoid prolonged direct afternoon sunlight, which can scorch the foliage.

Watering: Water when the top 2–5 cm (1–2 inches) of soil feels dry. Water thoroughly and allow excess moisture to drain. Avoid keeping the soil consistently soggy, as this can lead to root rot.

Humidity: Enjoys moderate to high humidity, ideally 50–70% or higher. It can adapt to average household humidity but will appreciate additional moisture during Edmonton’s dry winter months.

Temperature: Thrives in temperatures between 18–29°C. Protect from cold drafts, heating vents, and temperatures below 15°C.

Soil: Use a chunky, well-draining aroid mix containing orchid bark, perlite, coco coir, and potting soil. Good aeration helps maintain healthy roots.

Fertilizer: Feed with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Reduce or stop fertilizing during winter when growth slows.

Pruning: Trim leggy or damaged growth to maintain shape and encourage fuller growth. Healthy stem cuttings containing at least one node can be propagated.

Repotting: Repot every 1–2 years or when roots become crowded. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has drainage holes.

Pro-tip: Give your Dragon’s Tail something to climb! Its spectacular split leaves develop as the plant matures, especially when it can climb a moss pole or sturdy support. Juvenile leaves may look completely different from mature foliage, so patience and vertical growth are the secrets to unlocking its dramatic appearance.

*Please note that color may differ slightly from how it appears on your screen due to varying monitor settings. 

**Please note that you will receive the exact plant shown in the photos for the option you select.