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Stressed Dracaena #924453

Asked February 11, 2026, 12:01 PM EST

My plant has wide leaves. Not sure what kind but has some yellow spots, leaves curling, some tips drying. I started using distilled water and put it in a window with more light. Temps may have been too cool-60s however because it didn't seem to respond positively. Moved it again to indirect lighting in patio door window facing west. Any suggestions on what else I might try?? Thanks so much!

Dakota County Minnesota

Expert Response

Good Evening, 

Thank you for contacting the U of M Extension Service. 

Please click on the following link from the U of M Extension Yard and Garden website: 

https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/lighting-indoor-plants

This link discusses light levels for indoor plants. Dracaena is listed as a low level plant. 

Here is another link about houseplants, but does not specifically address your plant: https://extension.umn.edu/find-plants/houseplants

I would assume the plant is in a pot with drainage holes in the bottom. This is important to not have the roots sitting in water.  Yellowing leaves may be a sign of overwatering. Houseplants need much less water in the winter months. Have you repotted the plant in the last year or two? Fresh soil always makes a difference. 

Here is another link that discusses your plant specifically: https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/dracaena/

The tips browning could be the result of tap water with fluoride in it, so using distilled water or rain water would be best. This could also be the result of low humidity in the house in the winter. 

Good Luck!


Maureen Graber Replied February 11, 2026, 9:24 PM EST

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