Striped Dracaena
Dracaena fragrans 'Massangeana' · Asparagaceae
How it looks
Striped Dracaena is the same species as the corn plant (lucky bamboo type), with long, broad leaves clustered at the tip of a thick stem. The leaves have distinct yellow to light-green striping down the center. It reaches about 20 in to 6.5 ft (50 cm-2 m) tall and is common in offices and homes.
Mild caution — stomach irritation
All parts of Striped Dracaena contain irritating compounds that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and depression if chewed. Most cats recover on their own, but as a caution-level plant it still calls for monitoring.
Guide for parents
An occasional nibble of Striped Dracaena usually doesn't lead to anything serious, but the saponins in it can irritate the stomach and mucous membranes and cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms. Make a habit of clearing away fallen leaves or broken stems the same day, and keep the pot somewhere your cat can't reach. If symptoms last more than 12 hours or your cat's appetite clearly drops, consult your vet.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Onset
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea, depression
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
Details
- Scientific name
- Dracaena fragrans 'Massangeana'
- Common name
- Striped Dracaena
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts
- Compounds
- Saponins
- Onset
- Right away to within 2 hours of ingestion
- Symptoms
- Vomiting, diarrhea, depression
- Action
- Rinse the mouth with water and monitor. Consult a vet if symptoms last more than 12 hours.
- Source
- ASPCA
Related plants
Same plant family· Asparagaceae
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