Dracaena fragrans is a slow growing shrub, mature specimens reaching 10m. Stems may reach up to 30 cm diameter on old plants; in forest habitats they may become horizontal with erect side branches. The leaves are glossy green, lanceolate, 20–150 cm long and 2–12 cm wide; small leaves are erect to spreading, and larger leaves usually drooping under their weight. they are highly fragrant. The fruit is an orange-red berry 1–2 cm diameter, containing several seeds.