The Different Types of African Spear Plant

The African spear plant, also known as the cylindrical snake plant, is an interesting and eye-catching houseplant. With its long, cylindrical, spear-shaped leaves, it definitely makes a statement in any indoor garden.

This plant is known by many names, including African spear, skyline spear, cylindrical mother-in-law’s tongue, spear orchid, and spear sansevieria. Its scientific name is Dracaena angolensis.

While most people are familiar with the common African spear plant, there are actually a few different cultivars to choose from. Each has its own distinct characteristics.

Overview of African Spear Plant Types

Here is an overview of some of the most popular African spear plant varieties:

Dracaena cylindrica ‘Spaghetti’

This cultivar is named for its especially thin, spaghetti-like leaves. The leaves are more slender than other varieties. They emerge light green and then mature to a darker green. The leaves can grow up to around 4 feet tall.

‘Spaghetti’ makes a great tabletop or desktop plant. It does well in bright, indirect light. The slim leaves give it a tropical, whimsical look.

Dracaena cylindrica ‘Skyline’

‘Skyline’ has wide, thick leaves that grow vertically, reaching up to 7 feet tall The leaves emerge a lime green and darken as they mature. This variety makes a dramatic statement plant.

‘Skyline’ does best in bright light. It tolerates low light, but may get leggy and sparse without enough sun. The huge vertical leaves look amazing in large planters or floor pots.

Dracaena cylindrica ‘Patula’

This variety has arching recurved leaves. The leaves emerge upright but then bend downward. ‘Patula’ has wider leaves than ‘Spaghetti’ but slimmer than ‘Skyline’. The leaves can reach about 3 feet long.

‘Patula’ appreciates bright, indirect light. It will tolerate low light but grows leggier. The cascading leaves give it a fountain-like or weeping effect.

Grow Care for African Spear Plant Types

While the different African spear plant cultivars vary in appearance, their care is quite similar. Here are some tips for growing these plants successfully:

• Plant in a well-draining potting mix formulated for cacti and succulents. They prefer a sandy, loose soil.

• Water infrequently, allowing the soil to fully dry out between waterings. They are drought tolerant.

• Give bright, indirect light indoors. Low light is tolerated but can cause sparse growth. Direct hot sun will scorch leaves.

• Fertilize lightly in spring and summer, if desired. Look for a balanced liquid fertilizer.

• Maintain temperatures above 50°F. Cooler temps can damage the plant.

• Allow the plants to become rootbound in their pots. Repot every 2-3 years in spring.

• Wipe leaves with a damp cloth occasionally to remove dust. Trim off any damaged leaves.

Displaying Different African Spear Varieties

One fun idea is to display two or more African spear varieties together for an interesting contrast. Here are some suggestions:

• Plant ‘Spaghetti’ and ‘Skyline’ side by side to show the difference in leaf size.

• Grow ‘Patula’ behind ‘Skyline’ for a layered look.

• Interplant ‘Spaghetti’ and ‘Patula’ for slim and curvy leaves.

• Cluster three varieties in one large pot for a bold combo planting.

• Alternate cultivars in different pots down a shelf or windowsill.

The slender ‘Spaghetti’ variety does well in hanging planters, with the long leaves trailing down attractively. The upright ‘Skyline’ makes a better floor plant. ‘Patula’ looks great on elevated plant stands.

propagate with African spear plant pups

African spear plants will occasionally produce pups or offsets. These are smaller versions of the mother plant that emerge from the soil around the base. The pups can be carefully removed and propagated in their own pots once they reach 6 inches tall.

To remove a pup, use a clean, sharp knife to detach it from the main plant’s root system. Plant the pup in a small pot using cactus/succulent soil. Keep it in bright, indirect light while it establishes roots and begins growing.

Pups are easier to propagate than African spear seeds, which can be difficult to germinate. Removing pups also helps control the size of the mother plant.

An Architectural Houseplant

With their sculptural shapes and bold leaves, African spear plants make a striking addition to indoor plant collections. They add height, drama, and architectural interest to shelves, tabletops, and other displays.

The different varieties available give plant parents options when incorporating these plants in their homes. Grow one cultivar or mix several for contrast.

Their relatively easy care and drought tolerance also makes African spear plants a great choice for beginners or anyone who tends to neglect their houseplants. Give them the warm, bright conditions they prefer, and these succulents will reward you with their exotic, tropical elegance.