Lucky Bamboo

Dracaena sanderianaAlso known as: Ribbon Plant, Chinese Water Bamboo, Goddess of Mercy Plant

Lucky Bamboo is a resilient houseplant often grown in water and associated with feng shui. Despite its name, it's not actually bamboo but a member of the Dracaena family native to Central Africa. Its flexible stalks can be trained into spirals, towers, and intricate shapes, making it a popular decorative plant.

Easy Care

Low to Medium Light

Perennial

Quick Care Summary

Light
Low to Medium Light

Temperature Range
60-85°F (16-29°C)

Ideal Temp
70°F (21°C)

Toxic to Pets

This plant is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Keep it out of reach of pets, or consider pet-safe alternatives. Symptoms of ingestion may include drooling, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing.

Seasonal Care Schedule

Adjust your care routine based on the season for optimal plant health.

Watering Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Change water weekly if in water; water soil when top inch (2.5 cm) is dry
Summer	Change water every 5-7 days; more frequent soil watering
Fall	Weekly water changes; soil watering every 7-10 days
Winter	Weekly water changes; reduce soil watering to every 10-14 days

Use filtered or distilled water - sensitive to chlorine and fluoride. Keep roots submerged if grown in water.

Fertilizing Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Single drop of liquid fertilizer monthly if in water; monthly for soil
Summer	Single drop monthly for water; monthly for soil
Fall	Every 6-8 weeks
Winter	No fertilizing

Very light feeder - too much fertilizer causes yellowing.

Pruning

Frequency: As needed to control size and shape

Best Season: Any time

Cut offshoots near the main stalk. New shoots will emerge from cut points.

Repotting

Frequency: Every 1-2 years if in soil; refresh water/pebbles annually

Best Season: Spring

Can grow in water indefinitely or transition to soil.

Propagation Methods

Stem cuttings - cut below a node
Root in water or moist soil
Offshoots from main stalk

Common Problems

Yellow leaves: Too much light, chlorinated water, or fertilizer buildup
Brown leaf tips: Fluoride in water or dry air
Soft, mushy stalks: Root rot from stagnant water or overwatering
Algae growth: Too much light on water - use opaque container

Pro Tips

Keep away from direct sunlight - can burn easily
Change water weekly to prevent bacterial growth
Different stalk numbers have feng shui meanings (3=happiness, 5=wealth, etc.)
Can live in water for years without soil

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