Everything About Sansevieria Parva You Should Know

Sansevieria Parva is a flowering plant that grows in the eastern African forests. It is a slow-growing perennial with flat, succulent leaves. Commonly known as Kenya Hyacinth, this plant got its name from the lovely hyacinth-like smell of the flowers. Unlike many Sansevieras, it can bloom regularly. Sansevieria Parva was first discovered in 1915. Nicolas Edward Brown was the first to provide the description of this species. Each rosette of S. Parva has around 6-18 leaves. And, the rhizomes are brownish orange in color. Sansevieria Parva also has a variegated cultivar which has vertical yellowish-white stripes. Sansevieria Dooneri was considered as a closely related species to Sansevieria Parva. Both naturally grow in similar habitats and look almost the same. Now they are assumed to be one species having slight variation due to micro-habitat factors. (Source: plantsoftheworldonline) This plant belongs to the genus Dracaena Vand from the Asparagaceae family.

Also Known As

Kenya Hyacinth, Dracaena Parva, Sansevieria Dooneri, Kenya Hyacinth Snake Plant, Sansevieria Bequaertii, Sansevieria Bequaertii De Wild.

At A Glance

Features

Origin

The plant is native to eastern Africa. It is specifically found in Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda. In Kenya, farmers use this species as a fodder.

Size

It is a relatively smaller plant that grows to around 1-1.5 feet. The spread of this plant can be up to 1 foot. The leaves are about an inch wide. Flower stalks are maximum 2 feet tall.

Foliage

S. Parva has lance-shaped, narrow, slightly concave leaves that spread out like a fountain. Lengthwise they are folded a bit and get tapered towards the end. Young leaves are bright green with pale-green horizontal bands. As they become mature, the bands disappear to result in deep green plain leaves. A narrow green border is present to cover these smooth, flat leaves.

Flower

The plant produces vertical flower stalks covered in bunches of small buds. This may happen annually. The flowers are small, tubular-shaped and creamy-white in color. Apex can be pinkish-brown. They exude a pleasant scent of hyacinth at night.

Toxicity

All parts of the plant are mildly toxic if ingested. Keep away from pets and children. Consumption can cause vomiting, diarrhea, nausea 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 less likely to be infested by pests. Although it might get attacked by mealybugs or spider mites. Keep the leaves clean and water-free to avoid any damage.

Propagation

Propagation is possible by plant division, leaf cuttings or planting rhizomes. When using leaf cuttings, take at least 3-4 inches sections and plant them upright 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 light shade conditions. Bright indirect sunlight is ideal. For outdoor plants, select a shaded area to protect them from harsh afternoon sun.

Soil

Well-draining and sandy soil is great for this plant. Mix sand, perlite or peat in a regular or garden soil. You can also use potting mix for succulents. Make sure that the soil drains water freely.

Environment

The average room temperature and humidity works great for this plant. It is hardy to even 50°F (10°C), if kept dry. Higher temperatures are usually well tolerated. However, avoid frost and extremely low temperatures.