Dracaenas are the plants we reach for when someone wants height and structure without fuss, and Dracaena fragrans 'Burley' is a good example of why. Broad, strap shaped leaves arch out from an upright stem in glossy green, building into a loose rosette that gives a room a bit of vertical lift. The overall effect is clean and slightly architectural rather than busy.

It is genuinely forgiving, which makes it a sound choice for a first plant, a hallway, an office or any corner that does not get much sun. Wipe the leaves now and then to keep them glossy and to help the plant make the most of the light it does get.

Care at a glance

Light: Bright indirect is ideal, though it copes well with a shadier spot. Keep it out of direct sun, which scorches the leaves.

Water: Let the top third of the compost dry out before watering again. It far prefers being a little dry to being wet, so err on the side of less.

Humidity: Average rooms are fine. Brown leaf tips usually mean the air is dry or the tap water is heavily treated, so filtered or stood water helps.

Feed: A balanced houseplant feed every six weeks or so through spring and summer.

Note: Dracaenas are toxic to cats and dogs if chewed, so best kept out of reach of pets.

As a living plant, size and leaf shape vary from one to the next, so yours will be one of a kind.