The Dragon Tree in Tenerife—one of the island’s most important symbols

If there is one plant that best captures the mysterious character of the Canary Islands, it is undoubtedly the dragon tree. Its extraordinary appearance and history make you wonder, when you see it for the first time, if you’ve stepped into a fantasy world. Its distinctive features include a crown resembling a giant umbrella, a massive trunk, and red sap known as “dragon’s blood.” For centuries, this tree has captured the imagination of locals and travelers alike who spend their vacations in Tenerife.

For many people, seeing a dragon tree is just as important as seeing Mount Teide or the majestic cliffs of Los Gigantes. It’s no coincidence that the drago—as it’s called in Spanish—has become the island’s official symbol.

There are many dragon trees in Tenerife, but the most famous one is located in Icod de los Vinos —the legendary Drago Milenario. You can see it on sightseeing tours led by a Polish guide:

• from the south of Tenerife — see details and book 👉 here
• from Puerto de la Cruz – see details and book 👉 here

What is a dragon tree?

The dragon tree (Dracaena draco) is a remarkable plant that occurs naturally in the Canary Islands, Madeira, Cape Verde, and certain regions of northwestern Africa. Despite its name, it is not a classic tree in the botanical sense, but belongs to the genus Dracaena. However, its distinctive appearance has led it to be treated as a full-fledged tree for centuries.

The most remarkable feature of the dragon tree is the way it grows. For many years, the plant develops only a single trunk. It is only after its first flowering that it begins to branch out, forming a distinctive crown resembling a giant candelabra. Each subsequent flowering leads to the formation of new branches, giving older specimens an exceptionally monumental appearance.

Dragon trees grow very slowly, but they can live for hundreds of years. It is precisely this longevity that has made them a symbol of endurance, strength, and the enduring bond between the people and nature.

Where does the name “dragon tree” come from?

The name is no coincidence. When the bark is cut, a thick, red resin resembling blood oozes from the trunk. Since ancient times, it has been known as “dragon’s blood.”

For centuries, people believed that the red sap was the actual blood of mythical dragons. The resin was used as a natural dye, an ingredient in medicines, varnishes, and cosmetics, and even as a substance used in religious rituals. In the past, it was so valuable that the mass harvesting of the resin led to a significant decline in the population of dragon trees in the Canary Islands.

Today, resin harvesting is strictly regulated, and dragon trees are protected.

The Legend of the Dragon and the Birth of the Dragon Tree

As befits a plant with such an extraordinary appearance, the dragon tree has given rise to many legends.

The most famous story dates back to ancient mythology associated with the Garden of the Hesperides. According to legend, the garden was guarded by a mighty dragon. When it was slain during one of the heroes’ expeditions, its blood fell to the ground. In the places where it touched the ground, the first dragon trees sprouted. That is why their resin is the color of blood.

For centuries, the inhabitants of the Canary Islands have developed their own versions of this story. In many local tales, the dragon tree symbolizes the triumph of life over death, rebirth, and the power of nature. The islands’ ancient inhabitants believed that the plant possessed magical protective properties and could ward off evil spirits.

Drago Milenario – the most famous dragon tree in the world

When talking about dragon trees, it’s impossible not to mention the most famous of them all—the Drago Milenario. It is located in the town of Icod de los Vinos in the north of the island and is one of Tenerife’s biggest tourist attractions. The tree stands over 16 meters tall, and the circumference of its base is about 20 meters. For over a century, it has been considered one of the archipelago’s most important symbols. In 1917, it was designated a national monument of Spain.

For many years, it was claimed that the tree was over a thousand years old, hence the name “Drago Milenario,” or the Thousand-Year-Old Dragon Tree. However, modern research indicates that its actual age is likely around 800–1,000 years. Regardless of the exact number, it remains the most important and recognizable representative of its species.

Icod de los Vinos – the town of the dragon tree

For many tourists, Icod de los Vinos is one of the most beautiful towns in northern Tenerife. In addition to the famous dragon tree, you’ll find historic streets, colonial architecture, and numerous wineries here. If you’re looking for an authentic Canary Islands experience, this is the place to go.

A visit to the Drago Milenario is not just an opportunity to take beautiful photos. A botanical garden has been created around the tree, showcasing many plant species endemic to Tenerife. There’s also a café there where you can enjoy, among other things, the famous barraquito coffee.

Where can you find dragon trees in Tenerife?

Although the most famous dragon tree is located in Icod de los Vinos, it is not the only one of its kind on the island. Dragon trees can be found in many places throughout northern Tenerife. You can even see them along major roads and the highway.

The natural habitats of dragon trees are found mainly at elevations ranging from about 100 to 600 meters above sea level, where climatic conditions are ideal.

Why is the dragon tree so important to the people of Tenerife?

For the island’s residents, the dragon tree is much more than just an interesting plant. It is a symbol of local identity, history, and Tenerife’s uniqueness. The image of the dragon tree appears in promotional materials, travel guides, souvenirs, and local art. It is officially recognized as one of the symbols of Tenerife’s natural heritage. For Canarians, it represents resilience, longevity, and the ability to survive in harsh conditions.

Many residents also view them as a bridge between the present day and the culture of the island’s ancient inhabitants—the Guanches. The dragon tree serves as a reminder of a time when life on the islands was closely tied to nature and local beliefs.

Dragon’s Blood – An Extraordinary Resin with Many Uses

One of the reasons dragon trees have become so famous is their distinctive sap.

“Dragon’s blood” was already used by the ancient Romans and the peoples of the Mediterranean region. It was used as:

• natural dye,
• an ingredient in medications,
• preservative,
• cosmetic additive,
• an ingredient in musical instrument varnishes.

For centuries, it was also believed to possess magical and healing properties. It was precisely this immense interest in the resin that caused the number of dragon trees on the islands to begin declining. It was only through conservation efforts that this process was halted.

The Dragon Tree and Excursions in Tenerife

It’s hard to imagine a trip to the island without seeing the dragon tree.

For many visitors to Tenerife, it’s a must-see attraction. Its distinctive appearance means that photos taken at the Drago Milenario are immediately associated with the Canary Islands.

When you go on a sightseeing tour with OleTenerife, you can see, among other things, the most famous dragon tree in Icod de los Vinos. It’s a convenient way to explore the island that will save you a lot of the stress associated with driving and looking for parking. The guide will tell you interesting facts about Tenerife and the Canary Islands while you relax and enjoy the views.

If you’re staying in Puerto de la Cruz, you can see the Drago Milenario on the Teide & Masca tour departing from Puerto de la Cruz. This popular tour covers Tenerife’s top attractions—the Teide volcano, the village of Masca, and a visit to the picturesque town of Icod de los Vinos, home to the famous dragon tree.

🎟️ Details and ticket reservations: here

For those staying in the south of Tenerife, we recommend a sightseeing tour that will take you to Los Gigantes, the charming town of Garachico, Icod de los Vinos with its dragon tree, and then head to the north of the island, where you can visit one of the most beautiful zoos—Loro Park.

🎟️ Details and ticket reservations: here

If you’re interested in the best Tenerife tours, you should definitely include a visit to this unique symbol of the island in your itinerary.

Is the Dragon Tree worth seeing?

Definitely yes.

Even if the photos online seem impressive, it’s only when you see Drago Milenario in person that you can truly appreciate its uniqueness. Its monumental trunk, hundreds of branches, and the realization that the plant may have lived through the Middle Ages are truly awe-inspiring.

The Dragon Tree is one of those places that perfectly blend nature, history, and local culture. It is a symbol of Tenerife just as important as Mount Teide, the Los Gigantes cliffs, or the picturesque village of Masca.

Summary

The dragon tree is one of the most precious natural treasures of the Canary Islands. Its extraordinary appearance, mysterious red resin, and numerous legends have made it a symbol of the entire island. The most famous specimen is located in the town of Icod de los Vinos, where it has been delighting locals and tourists from around the world for hundreds of years.

While on vacation in Tenerife, it’s worth taking the time to learn about this remarkable plant. You can see it on the Teide Masca tour departing from Puerto de la Cruz or as part of a private tour. It’s a unique opportunity to learn about the island’s history, legends, and culture, and to see one of the archipelago’s most remarkable symbols.

If you’re planning your trips in Tenerife, be sure to add the famous Dragon Tree in Icod de los Vinos to your list of places to visit. And if you need help planning your vacation, contact us!