Rocket Snake Plant - Sansevieria cylindrica

Scientific Name
Sansevieria cylindrica (Cylindrical San Severo plant)

Recently, the Genus Sansevieria has been moved into the Genus Dracaena, so this is now more properly Dracaena cylindrica

Common Name
African Spear Plant, Rocket Snake Plant

Origin
Originates from Angola, in Southern Africa

Description
This Snake Plant's leaves shoot straight up out of the soil, reaching for the stars like the rocket they are named for. Their leaves are an unusual shape; unlike the more common Snake Plant, this species has cylindrical, fleshy leaves which are adapted to hold water during drought conditions in its native Africa. These unique leaves ripple with several shades of green, bringing a truly unusual look to your home. While Snake Plants are known for being able to survive in a variety of light levels, they will thrive best in bright light, and when you ensure that the soil can totally dry out between waters.

Light
Snake plants are flexible with lighting, as the positioning of their leaves allows them to maximise any light. While they can survive even in the dimmest of rooms, they will thrive best in bright, indirect light, but you can even place them in direct sun as long as you let them build a tolerance gradually!

Water
Allow the soil to totally dry out between waters. Be especially careful if your Snake Plant is in a darker spot as it will need much less frequent watering there than on a sunny windowsill.

Humidity
Low humidity is ideal for Snake Plants, though an occasional hose down to keep the leaves dust-free will be appreciated. Just make sure they thoroughly dry out afterwards!

Soil
Use a well-draining soil; a blend for cacti and succulents (with sand and grit) would work well here. For an extra boost you can mix in bark as well which the plant will appreciate! Repot every three years in Spring as the plant grows. It doesn't mind being pot-bound for a while but will put out more new growth when it has more space!

Food
Feed every two months using a diluted fertiliser; one designed for cacti or just for houseplants generally will work fine. Make sure to water first to avoid burning the plant's roots.

Temperature
Temperatures of about 12-32°C are great- make sure it doesn't drop below 10°C in winter.

Pet-safe
No, this plant is toxic to pets and small humans.

Sprouts Top Tips
Snake Plants are great at growing in a variety of light levels, but make sure you tailor both your expectations and your watering schedule to the light level. You will need to water more in a bright location, and the plant will probably grow better too; in a dimmer location, water less and expect slower growth!