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Description
Sansevieria cylindrica, also known as African spear, cylindrical snake plant, or spear sansevieria, is a succulent plant native to West Africa. It belongs to the Asparagaceae family and is a popular houseplant due to its unique appearance and low maintenance requirements. It has long, cylindrical leaves that grow upright from the base, reaching up to 7 feet in height in the wild. The leaves are tough and rigid, with dark green bands or stripes on a lighter green background. The plant produces small white or cream-colored flowers on a long stem, but it rarely blooms indoors.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Sansevieria |
Appearance
The Sansevieria cylindrica has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other snake plants. Its leaves grow upright from the base, forming a clump of cylindrical columns that resemble spears. The leaves are typically 2-3 feet long, but they can grow up to 7 feet in the wild. The leaves are rigid and tough, with a smooth texture and pointed tips. The color of the leaves is light green with dark green bands or stripes running the length of the leaves. The plant produces small white or cream-colored flowers on a long stem that can reach up to 3 feet in height, but it rarely blooms indoors.
Care Guide
The Sansevieria cylindrica is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:
- Water: Water your plant sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. Avoid using heavy or compacted soils that can retain moisture and lead to root rot.
- Sunlight: The Sansevieria cylindrica prefers bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate low light conditions. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: The Sansevieria cylindrica is hardy in USDA zones 10-12 and is best grown indoors in cooler climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Sansevieria cylindrica is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common problems. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that can affect this plant:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. Use a miticide to control spider mites.
- Mealybugs: These insects leave a cottony residue on the plant and can cause stunted growth. Use insecticidal soap to control mealybugs.
- Fungal diseases: Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to fungal diseases such as root rot or leaf spot. Use a fungicide to control fungal diseases.
Habitat
The Sansevieria cylindrica is native to West Africa, where it grows in arid regions with sandy or rocky soils. It is well-adapted to drought and can survive long periods without water. In its native habitat, the plant is often used for medicinal purposes, including treating respiratory and digestive problems. The plant has also been used in traditional African music, where the hollow stems are used as percussion instruments.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Sansevieria cylindrica be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the Sansevieria cylindrica can be propagated from leaf cuttings. Cut a healthy leaf into sections and plant each section in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist until the cuttings take root.
Q: Can the Sansevieria cylindrica be grown outdoors?
A: The Sansevieria cylindrica is hardy in USDA zones 10-12 and can be grown outdoors in warm, dry climates. It prefers well-draining soil and bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: How tall can the Sansevieria cylindrica grow?
A: The Sansevieria cylindrica can grow up to 7 feet in height in the wild, but it typically grows to 2-3 feet tall indoors.
Q: Can the Sansevieria cylindrica be grown in low light conditions?
A: Yes, the Sansevieria cylindrica can tolerate low light conditions, but it prefers bright, indirect sunlight.
Related Plants
- Sansevieria trifasciata (Snake Plant)
- Sansevieria hahnii (Bird’s Nest Snake Plant)
- Sansevieria moonshine (Moonshine Snake Plant)
- Sansevieria zeylanica (Ceylon Bowstring Hemp)
References
- “Sansevieria cylindrica.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b599. Accessed 23 Sept. 2021.
- “Sansevieria cylindrica.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/sansevieria/sansevieria-cylindrica.htm. Accessed 23 Sept. 2021.
- “Sansevieria cylindrica.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/snake-plant-sansevieria-cylindrica-1902746. Accessed 23 Sept. 2021.
