I'm interested in learning how to trim a 10' tall Dracaena draco, the "Dragon Tree", so as to induce it to form a broad, multi-branched top with many "heads". I have seen a picture of one growing in a botanic garden in Sidney, Australia that was spectacular, with perhaps a hundred heads forming a wide, impressive tree. The plant I have, grown from a seed collected on Oahu, Hawaii is now growing of the Island of Molokai, out of doors. It's currently a straight, columnar plant 10' or more tall with a single head. My guess is that the plant should be completely topped (cut off) at about 6 feet and that this will induce the extensive branching I'm seeking. Any suggestions or guidance would be appreciated.
Bernie Strehler, Molokai, Hawaii
Dragon Tree Management
I am not sure what causes them to bloom but it is the flower stalk that causes them to branch. Once the blooms finishes it will begin to branch. Then each successive bloom will cause it to branch more since the bloom comes from the end of the branch(es). Ten feet doesn't sound too tall but I would expect it to bloom soon. I wouldn't top it if it were mine.