Dracaena angolensis (Sansevieria cylindrica)
Also known as: African spear, cylindrical snake plant
The African spear: round spear-like leaves in a fan, sometimes braided by growers. It belongs to the Dracaena genus, comes from Angola, stays around Stems 60–100 cm, and tolerates USDA 10–12; protect below 5 °C. Individual plants vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Key facts
- Genus: Dracaena
- Origin: Angola
- Mature size: Stems 60–100 cm
- Hardiness: USDA 10–12; protect below 5 °C
- Toxicity: Mildly toxic to pets
Succulent at a glance
- Genus
- Dracaena
- Origin
- Angola
- Mature size
- Stems 60–100 cm
- Growth habit
- Cylindrical blunt-tipped leaves emerging in fans
- Leaf colour
- Grey-green cylindrical speared leaves, sometimes braided
- Flower colour
- Pink-white flower spikes (rare)
- Hardiness
- USDA 10–12; protect below 5 °C
- Toxicity
- Mildly toxic to pets
- Other names
- African spear, cylindrical snake plant
About the Dracaena angolensis (Sansevieria cylindrica)
The African spear: round spear-like leaves in a fan, sometimes braided by growers. Same indestructible care as the snake plant, with a modern sculptural look.
Care and cultivation
Grow in a fast-draining cactus mix with at least 50% mineral grit (pumice or perlite). Water deeply only when the soil has dried completely, then pour away any water left in the saucer. Full morning sun keeps the rosette tight and colours vivid; in very hot climates give light afternoon shade. Remove spent flower stalks and dried lower leaves to discourage mealybugs. Light: Bright light with a few hours of direct morning sun; colours deepen with more sun. Water: Soak-and-dry; about every 10–14 days in spring and fall, less in winter. Use a Fast-draining cactus/succulent mix, 50% mineral grit.
Description
Dracaena angolensis (Sansevieria cylindrica) is a Dracaena succulent from Angola. The African spear: round spear-like leaves in a fan, sometimes braided by growers. Same indestructible care as the snake plant, with a modern sculptural look.
Identification
Look for: Grey-green cylindrical speared leaves, sometimes braided leaves in a Stems 60–100 cm form. Also answers to African spear, cylindrical snake plant. The genus is Dracaena, which already narrows down the care requirements considerably. Nickname: 'African spear'.
Common problems
Mealybugs in leaf axils (wipe with alcohol swab) • Etiolation (stretching) in low light • Powdery farina smudges if touched — it does not grow back • Crown rot if water pools in the rosette •
Frequently asked questions
How often should I water my Dracaena angolensis (Sansevieria cylindrica)?
Soak-and-dry; about every 10–14 days in spring and fall, less in winter. Always let the soil dry completely between waterings, and water less in winter when growth slows.
How much light does Dracaena angolensis (Sansevieria cylindrica) need?
Bright light with a few hours of direct morning sun; colours deepen with more sun. If the plant stretches or loses colour, it needs more light.
Related succulents
Succulent information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the Dracaena angolensis (Sansevieria cylindrica), supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.