Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana) is a beginner-level aquarium plant. Sold as a houseplant, lucky bamboo is not a true aquatic plant: its stalks rot if fully submerged. Keep the leaves above the water with the base and roots in the tank, where it absorbs nutrients. It is toxic to cats and dogs if chewed.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Dracaena sanderiana |
|---|---|
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Origin | West Africa (cultivated worldwide) |
| Height | 12-24 in above the water |
| Light | Low |
| CO2 | Not needed |
| Placement | Emersed: roots in water, leaves above |
| Growth rate | Slow |
| Temperature | 65-82°F |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Propagation | Stem cuttings |
Quick tips
- Keep the leaves out of the water.
- Use dechlorinated water.
- Keep away from pets that chew plants.
San Diego water
Captive-bred stock usually adapts to San Diego tap water with slow acclimation. For best color and health, many keepers blend tap with RO/DI water. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
New to planted tanks? Start with our beginner planted tank guide and the plant fertilizer guide.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi