Sangre de drago (Jatropha dioica)
Care, watering, light and tips for Sangre de drago on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Euphorbiaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 15 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 10–38 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Sangre de drago
Jatropha dioica, commonly known as dragon's blood, is a shrubby succulent native to Mexico and the Southern United States, valued for its reddish sap and resilience. It develops thick, fleshy stems, often leafless during dry periods, and produces small reddish or yellowish flowers. It is ideal for xeriscapes, rock gardens, or as an accent plant in pots where its uniqueness and low maintenance are appreciated.
Native range
Northwestern Mexico and Southwestern United States (Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico)
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal development and abundant flowering. Watering should be sporadic and deep, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings, especially in winter. Use a very well-draining substrate, preferably sandy or for cacti and succulents. Avoid overwatering, as it is the most common cause of root rot in this drought-tolerant species.
How to save a dying Sangre de drago
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or abundant leaf drop, soft or wrinkled stems, lack of growth.
- First aid
- Check drainage. If potted, consider repotting to one with better drainage. Reduce watering. Protect from cold.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and low temperatures. It's very sensitive to constant root moisture.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act fast. It's resilient, but prolonged waterlogging is fatal.