Dracaena fragrans is a slow-growing shrub, usually multistemmed at the base, with mature specimens reaching 15 m (49 ft) or taller with a narrow crown of usually slender erect branches. They make good houseplants because stems may reach up to 30 cm (12 in) in diameter on old plants; in forest habitats, they may become horizontal with erect side branches. They grow fairly slowly, from thick canes or stems that produce long, narrow leaves like stalks of corn, growing upward. This growth habit also makes them look a lot like palm trees, which is why they’re sometimes called “false palms.”

These plants aren't high maintenance once you get their growing conditions right. Springtime is ideal for starting new plants, though you can typically pot nursery plants indoors any time of year. if you have cats or dogs, pass on this plant as dracaena is toxic to both.