The Dracaena reflexa, or Pleomele, also known as the Candlewood, is a tropical plant emblematic of the Au Bois Vert botanical garden, located in Ivato near Antananarivo. Native to Madagascar and the neighbouring islands of the Indian Ocean, this plant captivates with its natural elegance and resilience. Its elongated, bright green leaves, sometimes edged with yellow, form dense clusters reminiscent of candles, hence its common name. In its natural habitat, it can reach a height of 4 to 5 metres, although it is often cultivated in pots or as an ornamental indoor plant, where it remains more compact.
The Pleomele stands out for its ability to purify the air, a feature that makes it a popular choice for enclosed spaces such as our lodge and restaurant. In the Au Bois Vert botanical garden, this plant plays an essential role in the landscape design, adding an exotic and soothing touch. Its tolerance to varied conditions, including low light and poor soils, makes it an easy-to-maintain species, ideal for both plant enthusiasts and professionals.
Thanks to its slow growth and perennial life cycle, the Dracaena reflexa, or Bois de Chandelle, offers lasting aesthetic appeal. Although rare in captivity, its flowering appears as clusters of small, fragrant white flowers. In its natural environment in Madagascar, this bloom attracts pollinators and birds, contributing to local biodiversity.
Plant use
Dracaena reflexa is not only a popular ornamental plant in tropical gardens but is also widely valued for its air-purifying properties. Studies have shown that this plant enhances indoor air quality by absorbing toxins and promoting a healthy environment. At the Au Bois Vert restaurant and lodge, we incorporate this plant into both indoor and outdoor spaces to create a soothing and elegant atmosphere. Traditionally, the leaves and bark of this plant have been used in folk medicine in Madagascar. They are used to prepare decoctions for treating various ailments, further highlighting its cultural and practical significance. In our botanical garden, this plant also serves as an excellent educational resource for visitors eager to learn more about Madagascar’s endemic species and their ecological roles. For horticulture enthusiasts staying at our hotel near Ivato, Dracaena reflexa is an inspiring example for designing environmentally friendly tropical gardens.
Key information
| Common name | Pleomele |
| Scientific name | Dracaena reflexa |
| Origin | Madagascar |
| Natural habitat | Tropical rainforests, dry areas |
| Life cycle | Perennial |
| Flowering period | Variable, generally in spring or summer |
