Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden, South Africa

Common name: Drakeboom, Canary Islands dragon tree

Family: Asparagaceae subfam. Nolinoideae

Distribution: Spain

Habitat: Rocky slopes, ledges on cliffs, slopes of ravines

IUCN Red list: Vulnerable

National red list: Endangered

Life form: Tree

Comments: This long-lived species reaches maturity after 30 years. When cutting bark or leaves they secrete a reddish resin, known as dragon’s blood, which has a wide range of uses as a medicine, for staining violins and for embalming the dead. Traditionally, it was taken internally to treat diarrhea, and is also used externally to heal wounds. Taken to prevent scurvy. Its similarity to human blood also caused it to be used in traditional rituals and magic, Dried, it was burnt as incense for a spiritual cleansing effect. The leaves and fruit are collected for animal fodder. Grazing pressure from livestock impacts seedling regeneration and juveniles. Although, the primary threat is landslides impacting steeper areas of its habitat.