Sansevieria Patens Care Guide – Snake Plant Care
Also Known As
At A Glance
Features
Origin
The exact origin of S. Patens in unknown. But, it is supposed to be native to Kenya (East Africa).
Size
This plant produces 1.5-3 feet (45-90 cm) long leaves. The spread of this plant can be as wide as 4-5 feet, because the leaves might grow horizontally. Flower stalks are around 2 feet tall.
Foliage
Patens has v-shaped, curving, slightly rough leaves that spread out like a fan. Each leaf has an acute channel that extends from the base to the apex. There are longitudinal grooves and lines too. The leaves are bright green with indistinct pale-green horizontal bands.Leaf tips are hardened and white. As they become mature, the leaves turn bluish green.
Flower
Flowering habit is erratic, but may happen annually. The plant produces vertical flower spikes covered in bunches of 2 to 3 small buds. The flowers are small, tubular-shaped and grayish-white in color.
Toxicity
All parts of the plant are mildly toxic if ingested. The poison can affect humans and animals. So, keep it away from your pets and children. Consuming the plant in large amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, nausea etc.
Growth Season
This evergreen plant actively grows during the spring to summer season. Warmer climate encourages plant growth. On the other hand, plants become dormant during cold winters. Flowering usually happens in the spring.
Pests
Sansevierias are generally less likely to be bothered by pests. If it does get attacked, it's probably due to spider mites or mealybugs. If detected early, pest attacks are easy to control. Diseases like root rot or fungal infections are a result of overwatering. To avoid this, follow a good watering practice.
Propagation
S. Patens can be propagated through leaf cuttings or root division. To create new plants from leaves, use at least 3-4 inches long cuttings. Plant them in moist and porous soil until small roots develop at the end. Later a rhizome will emerge at the edge of the leaf. Mature plants can be propagated quickly by dividing the root-ball
Growing Conditions
Water
Being a drought-tolerant species, no frequent watering is required for this plant. You can water once every other week in the growing season, and once a month during winters. However, the frequency can change depending on the atmospheric conditions around the plant. Let the top 1 inch soil get dry before watering. Don't let the soil remain wet for too long, especially during winters.
Light
Sansevieria plants are famous for tolerating anything from the full sun to light shade conditions. Bright indirect sunlight is ideal for plant growth and blooming. For outdoor plants, select a shaded area to protect them from harsh afternoon sun. Also, avoid placing your plants in deep shade.
Soil
Well-draining, gritty and porous soil is great for S. Patens. Use pumice, sand, perlite or coir as additives in a regular or garden soil. You can also use potting mix made for succulents. Sansevieria can grow in any kind of soil, just make sure that the potting mix has good drainage capacity.
Environment
An average room temperature and humidity works great for this plant. It'll be happy anywhere between 60-85°F (16-29°C). S. Patens has excellent heat tolerance, but it's not frost hardy. It can survive even 50°F (10°C), if the roots are dry. But, avoid frost and extremely low temperatures, as it can damage the leaves. Wet soil and freezing temperature will kill the plant.
