Sansevieria Francisii Care Guide – Snake Plant Care

Sansevieria Francisii is a unique species that looks and grows strikingly different from many commonly known Sansevierias. It is also little known than a typical snake plant. This plant produces densely packed rows of leaves on its stem. When the stem is fully stacked, stolons are created from the stem of leaf base. The name of this plant is given in honors to the London-born succulent cultivator and collector Francis K. Horwood. This plant was earlier classified under the genus Sansevieria, like many other Sansevieria species. From 2017, it became part of the genus Dracaena from the Asparagaceae family.

Also Known As

Sansevieria Francisii Chahin, Dracaena Francisii, Dracaena Francisii Chahin.

At A Glance

Features

Origin

The plant is native to Africa, specifically it's widespread in regions of Kenya.

Size

Stem of this plant can grow up to 2 feet, while each leaf grows about 6 inches long. Flower stalks are around 1 feet tall.

Foliage

Leaves grow in 5 distinct rows on a stem that are tightly arranged in a spiral shape. They are short, round and have brownish-red and white pointed tips. The green foliage has greenish-gray horizontal wavy stripes. Each leaf has 1 shallow channel and 4-6 dark green vertical lines.

Flower

On rare occasions, this plant produces vertical flower stalks covered in small buds. The flowers are creamy white with a hint of green, and may have purple-brown spots. The small, tubular flowers are lightly fragrant.

Toxicity

All parts of the plant are mildly toxic for humans and animals. If ingested, it can cause gastrointestinal problems like vomiting, diarrhea etc.

Growth Season

This evergreen plant actively grows during the spring to summer season. Flowering usually happens in late winter or in the spring.

Pests

This plant is generally not susceptible to pests and diseases. Although it might get attacked by mealybugs or spider mites. Overwatering can cause root rot.

Propagation

Propagation is possible by plant division, leaf cuttings or rhizomes. When using leaf cuttings, take at least 3-4 inches sections and plant them in soil.

Growing Conditions

Water

No frequent watering is required for this plant. Water once every other week in the growing season, and once a month during winters. Don't let the soil remain wet for long, especially during winters.

Light

It can tolerate anything from the full sun to low light conditions. Ideally go for bright and indirect sunlight. For outdoor plants, select a shaded area to protect the plant from harsh afternoon sun.

Soil

Well-draining and sandy soil is great for most plants in Sansevieria group. Recommended mix is loam and pumice in 3:1 ratio. You can also use potting mix for succulents.

Environment

Well suited for average room temperature and humidity. It is theoretically hardy to even 28°F, if kept dry. But frosting can damage the leaves and it's better to avoid extremely low temperatures.