It is with no doubt that a Sansevieria plant is the ideal choice if you’re new to plant ownership or want a houseplant that requires little maintenance. Among the many varieties and species of Sansevieria available, Sansevieria cylindrica, also known as Dracaena angolensis or African spear plant, is one of the all-time favorite house plants due to how simple yet attractive and tolerant they are in a range of environments.
The optimal light for Sansevieria cylindrica is bright indirect light, and best thrives in ideal watering of every two to three weeks. The temperature range good for their growth is 68 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Succulent and cactus soil should be provided as their potting soil, along with some perlite and pumice. Moreover, there should be about 40% humidity. In the spring and summer, fertilize your indoor plants no more than twice, and avoid fertilizing in the fall and winter.
Let’s take a detailed look at the care and maintenance requirements of this lovely Snake Plant variety. We will also give you important growing tips that you will surely need if you bring this plant to your own gardens.
The Sansevieria cylindrica, commonly called the African Spear Plant, is a kind of evergreen perennial succulent that is native to Angola. They frequently form thick stands in the wild and are spread by underground rhizomes. These plants are excellent for beginners since they are adaptable and resilient to neglect.
Sansevieria cylindrica is distinguished by its cylinder-shaped leaves. That is reflected in one of its popular names, the “cylindrical snake plant”. These smooth, tubular leaves have a dark green tint with green-grey variegation on some of them.
Sansevieria boncel, sometimes referred to as spear orchid or skyline spear and having plump, short, cylindrical leaves, is another stunning variant of the Sansevieria cylindrica.
The plant is commonly called the African Spear, Cylindrical Snake Plant, Spear Sansevieria, Saint Barbara Sword, and Elephant’s Toothpick.
Since the recategorization of the genus Sansevieria to Dracaena, Sansevieria cylindrica is now just a synonym for Dracaena angolensis.
The genus name Sansevieria was given in honor of the Italian scientist and inventor Raimondo di Sangro, Prince of San Severo. However, Vincenzo Petagna gave the genus its original name, Sanseverinia, in honor of his patron Pietro Antonio Sanseverino, Count of Chiaromonte, in whose Petagna garden had seen the plant.
The Cylindrical Snake Plants are flowering plants. Even though they are seldom seen in cultivation, the flowers that do occur are typically cream-white in color and have a light aroma. They usually bloom during summer or fall.
The African spear plant, also known as Sansevieria cylindrica or cylindrical snake plant, is gaining popularity among houseplant enthusiasts for its striking upright foliage and easy care requirements. With its long, cylindrical leaves that resemble upright green spears, this succulent plant can lend a dramatic, tropical look to both indoor and outdoor spaces.
While African spear plants are low-maintenance and quite resilient providing proper care is essential to keeping them healthy and looking their best. In this comprehensive care guide, we will walk through everything you need to know to successfully grow African spear plants, from ideal lighting conditions and watering needs to propagation techniques and troubleshooting common issues.
An Overview of African Spear Plant Characteristics
Before we dive into care and cultivation tips, let’s look at some quick facts about these amazing plants:
-
Botanical Name: Sansevieria cylindrica, also Dracaena angolensis
-
Common Names African spear plant spear sansevieria cylindrical snake plant
-
Native Region: Angola, Africa
-
Mature Size: 4-6 feet tall, 1-2 feet wide
-
Growth Habit Clumping rosette form with upright. cylindrical leaves
-
Flowers: Small white flowers bloom on long stalks, but rarely indoors
-
Light Needs: Bright, indirect light to partial sun
-
Watering Needs: Allow soil to dry out between waterings
-
Hardiness Zone: 10-11
-
Toxicity: Toxic to pets if ingested
With their upright, architectural shape and subtly variegated gray-green and white striped leaves, African spear plants make excellent accent plants in home and office environments. Their minimal care needs also make them ideal for beginner gardeners.
Now let’s look at how to provide the ideal growing conditions for your African spear plant.
Providing the Right Light for Your African Spear Plant
When it comes to lighting for your African spear plant, bright indirect light is ideal. This succulent prefers 4-6 hours of morning or late afternoon sun if grown outdoors. Indoors, place your African spear plant near an east, west, or north facing window where it will get ample ambient brightness but avoid hot, direct afternoon light which can scorch its leaves.
You’ll know your plant is getting too much light if the leaf tips turn brown or yellow. If your plant’s growth becomes leggy and stunted, with spaces between leaves, it likely needs more sunlight. Rotating your plant periodically allows all sides to get sufficient light exposure and encourages even, upright growth.
Watering Your African Spear Plant Properly
African spear plants are drought-tolerant and actually prefer being on the dry side, so take care not to overwater. Wait until the top inch or two of soil is completely dry before watering. The frequency will vary based on factors like sunlight exposure and temperature, but you will likely only need to water every 1-2 weeks.
When watering, pour water slowly until it drains freely from the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. Never allow your African spear plant to sit in water, as wet feet can lead to root rot. Always dump out excess water from the saucer after watering.
The fleshy, succulent leaves of the African spear plant act as a reservoir, storing water for future use. If the leaves start to wrinkle or droop slightly, it’s a sign your plant needs a drink. But take care not to overcompensate, as too much water is far more dangerous than underwatering for these plants.
Providing the Right Soil
African spear plants need fast-draining soil to prevent soggy conditions that can lead to root rot. A cactus or succulent potting mix works perfectly, as these are formulated to drain quickly while still retaining some moisture. You can also make your own mix using equal parts potting soil, perlite or pumice, and horticultural sand or pea gravel.
If planting in a conventional garden bed, amend heavy clay garden soil with sand, perlite, and organic compost to improve drainage. Just take care not to use compost or fertilizers that are too rich, as African spear plants are adapted to lean, mineral soils in their native habitat.
Terracotta pots are an excellent choice for African spear plants, as the porous material helps excess moisture evaporate. Choose a container with drainage holes and make sure your plant isn’t sitting in water.
Humidity and Temperature Needs
As tropical succulents, African spear plants prefer warm and dry conditions. Ideal temperatures are between 60-80°F. While they can tolerate short drops to around 50°F, extended exposure to cold can damage the plant.
Humidity is not a major concern for these plants, just avoid overly soggy soil. In dry environments, you can occasionally mist the leaves with room temperature water, but take care not to overdo it. Stagnant moisture can lead to fungal issues.
Fertilizing Your African Spear Plant
This low-maintenance succulent is adapted to thrive in nutrient-poor soils. But to encourage vibrant growth and strong foliage, light fertilization is recommended when actively growing in spring and summer. Use a balanced houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength, or choose a specialized cactus/succulent formula.
Fertilize monthly during the growing season and reduce to every other month in fall and winter. Excess fertilizer can burn the tips of the leaves, so more is not better. Always water deeply after applying fertilizer to flush out any buildup in the soil.
Repotting Your African Spear Plant
African spear plants have relatively small root systems compared to their long strappy leaves. They actually prefer being somewhat pot bound and only need repotting every 2-3 years.
When roots start growing out of the drainage holes or the lower leaves get crowded, move your plant to a container just one or two inches larger. Too large of a pot can hold moisture for too long. Use fresh succulent/cactus soil and avoid burying any part of the spears, as some of the leaves are photosynthetic and need exposure to light.
Propagating Your African Spear Plant
One of the easiest ways to propagate African spear plants is through division. This simply involves dividing the rhizomatous root mass, ensuring each division has some roots and growth buds. African spear plants also produce pups or offshoots that can be separated and potted up once they reach 4-6 inches tall.
You can also propagate from 3-4 inch leaf cuttings. Allow the cut end to dry or callous over for a few days, then stick into moist propagating mix leaving about an inch exposed. New roots and rosettes will eventually emerge.
For a more unusual look, try braiding or looping the long spear-shaped leaves before replanting. This gives the leaves an interesting twisted appearance as they continue growing.
Seeds are harder to come by and have poor germination rates, so propagation from cuttings or division is recommended.
Common Pests and Diseases
Overall, African spear plants are not prone to many pest or disease issues when provided with proper care. Here are a few potential problems to look out for:
-
Mealybugs – Cottony white insects that suck plant juices. Wipe off with alcohol or use insecticidal soap.
-
Fungus gnats – Harmless but annoying small black flies. Let soil dry out completely between waterings.
-
Root rot – Caused by overly wet soil. Allow soil to dry out before watering.
-
Leaf spot – Small brown spots on leaves. Increase airflow and reduce watering frequency.
Isolate any infected plants to prevent pests and diseases from spreading. Remove severely damaged leaves or plants to improve overall health.
Caring for Your African Spear Plant in Winter
African spear plants enter a dormancy period in winter when grown indoors. Water much less frequently, waiting until the soil is bone dry to water. Hold off on fertilizer over winter as well.
Reduce watering if your plant is near a drafty window, as cold air accelerates moisture loss. But don’t let temperatures dip below 50°F, as prolonged cold can damage your plant. A location a few feet back from a sunny window is ideal in winter.
With the right care and conditions, the African spear plant is sure to be an eye-catching addition to your indoor plant collection. Just be sure to provide plenty of bright, indirect light and minimal watering, and your African spears will continue growing into beautiful botanical sculptures.
Frequently Asked Questions About African Spear Plant Care
How often should I water my African spear plant?
- Water deeply only once the top inch of soil has completely dried out. This is usually every 1-2 weeks but may vary. Rely more on the soil dryness than a set schedule.
What type of soil does an African spear plant need?
- A fast-draining cactus/succulent mix is ideal. You can also amend regular potting soil with perlite or pea gravel to improve drainage.
Where should I place my African spear
Snake Plants Meaning And Symbolism
Snake plants are seen as representations of positivism, purity, and good fortune. Although their sharp leaves may seem a little sinister, they are believed to ward off ill luck and evil spirits. In addition, they are highly prized for their sturdy fibers and air-purifying properties.
The snake plant presents some feng shui symbolism. They shield your area from undesirable influences rather than bringing them inside. As a result, they are frequently regarded as lucky and valued plants.
Furthermore, the snake plant is used in ceremonies by some people in West African nations to ward off the evil eye. The capacity of snake plants to stave off attacks is another reason why people value them.
Despite not being native to Asia, humans have been cultivating snake plants there for more than a century. People in China highly value snake plants for their capacity to offer the eight beneficial qualities. These plants are therefore regarded as priceless houseplants and suitable presents.
The snake plant is valued in Korea as well. When someone starts a new company or moves into a new house, potted snake plants are a common present.
| General Meaning | Positivity, good fortune, purity |
| Symbolism | Good luck, protection from evil, offer 8 beneficial qualities |
Landscaping And Gardening Ideas
Due to their tall, linear shape, snake plants provide strong vertical accents when utilized alone, flanking an entryway, or in groupings with other foliage plants.
In addition, they are great plants to move about the house if a dramatic architectural element is required because they can withstand relocation well and don’t have particular lighting requirements.
The Spear Sansevieria is well suited to low-light environments where few other plants will flourish. In addition, they grow slowly and are tiny, making them ideal for terrariums or dish gardens.
Moreover, tall sansevierias placed on a chic plant stand may also be used to spruce up dull corners. These areas make for the best havens for these plants that tolerate shadows.
| What to plant with | Other Aroids, Bird of Paradise, Areca Palms, Fire Spike, Heliconia, Variegated Arboricola, Croton, Chenille Plant, Pentas, Most Tropical Plants |
| What NOT to plant with | Basically nothing |