Chinese Medicinal Herb "Dragon Bone": Alternative Names and Potted Cultivation Key Points Explained

Dragon Bone is a succulent plant in the genus Euphorbia of the family Euphorbiaceae. Because its shape somewhat resembles a spine, it is called by this name. Besides its unique appearance, which makes it suitable for potted ornamental growing, its flowers and stems also have certain medicinal value. The flowers can treat cough and coughing up blood, and the stems can effectively relieve cardiovascular diseases, mumps and other diseases. So what are the alternative names of the Chinese medicinal herb Dragon Bone? What are the key points for potted cultivation?

1. What are the alternative names of the Chinese medicinal herb Dragon Bone?

The alternative names of Dragon Bone include Bawanghua (Lingnan Caoyao Lu), Longgu Hua (Guangdong Zhongyao II), Tanhua (Guangzhou Zhiwu Zhi), Qixing Jianhua, Bawang Bian (Guangzhou Air Force Common Chinese Herbal Medicine Manual), and others. It is widely used in the Guangdong region of China, where it is often used to make soup; paired with candied jujube or monk fruit, it can have a certain dietary therapy effect.

The flowering period of Dragon Bone is in summer and autumn, and the color is white; after blooming during the day, it closes at night. Generally, after harvesting at this time, it is cut lengthwise, lightly steamed, then sun-dried, after which it can be stored for medicinal use. It is worth noting that potted Dragon Bone generally does not bloom.

2. What are the key points for potted Dragon Bone?

Besides being a common medicinal material, Dragon Bone also has a certain ornamental value. Grown in pots at home, it can help purify the air. Let us take a look below at the key points for potted Dragon Bone.

1. Soil selection

The planting soil for potted Dragon Bone is very important; choose a sandy loam with good air permeability, strong looseness and rich humus. Then mix in a certain amount of decomposed chicken manure or cow manure to make a growing medium.

2. Light conditions

Although the growth of Dragon Bone requires appropriate light, do not place it under strong light, otherwise the plant is prone to yellowing, especially when the light is relatively strong in summer. In winter, place it appropriately in a sunny indoor spot, maintaining the temperature while also providing appropriate diffused light.

3. Watering

Potted Dragon Bone does not need much water for growth, because it is very drought-tolerant. If watered too much, it is very easy for water to accumulate, causing root rot and yellowing of the plant, and in severe cases it may even die. In spring, generally watering once every half a month is enough; you can use a spray bottle to mist water and increase air humidity. In summer, the number of waterings needs to be increased, once a day, choosing morning or evening. In winter, the temperature is low and the water demand is not much, so keeping the potting soil on the dry side is enough. To help it overwinter smoothly, you can cover it with plastic film for insulation.

4. Fertilizing

For potted Dragon Bone, besides providing sufficient base fertilizer, you also need to decide whether additional topdressing is needed according to its growth condition. If topdressing, do not apply too much at one time; remember the key points of frequent fertilizing and light fertilizing. Fertilizer that is too concentrated can easily burn the leaves and cause yellowing of the leaves.