Sansevieria Stuckyi Care Guide – Snake Plant Care
Also Known As
At A Glance
Features
Origin
This species is native to equitorial and south Africa. Originally found in the regions of Kenya to Mozambique.
Size
The maximum height of the plant is 6-7 feet depending on the growing conditions. Mature leaves are 4-8 feet long and 1-2 inches thick at the base. Flower stalk is smaller as compared to the plant. It can grow up to a foot high.
Foliage
The unusual foliage has 2 kinds of life forms. The juvenile leaves are flat, green with dark green horizontal stripes. They have a C-shaped cross-section and grow to form a fountain shape. After 4-6 years, this phase ends. After that long, cylindrical leaves are created in irregular rosettes. These adult leaves are tough, waxy, fleshy, grow vertically and have circular cross-sections. They are pale green in color and have vertical channels, pointy tips and longitudinal grooves.
Flower
It is very rare for this plant to flower. When it does, it produces purple speckled greenish white flowers on an erect flower stalk. They are fragrant and smell pleasant during the night. After blossoming, the flowers create small red-orange berries.
Toxicity
S. Stuckyi can be toxic for cats and dogs. After ingestion, it can cause mild symptoms of poisoning. The symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, drooling, nausea and mouth irritation. All parts of this plant are mildly toxic for humans as well.
Growth Season
Warmer months of the year are usually best for the growth of this plant. In non-tropical regions it becomes dormant during winter time. Blooming season is spring or autumn.
Pests
The Sansevieria Stuckyi plant is rarely attacked by insects. Spider mites and mealybugs can be low-level potential threats. Most diseases can be avoided by keeping a good watering regimen.
Propagation
The fastest method of creating new plants is to divide the root-ball in parts and plant them separately. Another way of propagation is by using the leaf cuttings. You can cut 3-4 inches long sections of a healthy leaf and place them in wet soil or water until small roots develop. After the roots become 1-2 inches long, plant them in a pot or ground.
Growing Conditions
Water
Being naturally drought-tolerant, this plant doesn't demand religious watering. Water it only whenever the soil gets very dry. Depending on the environment, it can be watered once a week in the warmer seasons, and once a month during the winters.
Light
Like most Sansevieria, it grows best and flowers in bright light. This species can tolerate anything from full sun to low light conditions. However, protect the plant from direct sun in hot summer afternoons. If grown outdoors, it prefers semi-shade and shaded areas. Few hours of morning and evening sun is best for the growth.
Soil
Loose and fast-draining soil is best suitable for this plant. Mix in perlite, coir (or peat) and regular soil in equal proportions to make a home-made soil mix. You can also use a soil-less potting mix for cacti and succulents.
Environment
S. Stuckyi is very easy to grow plant. It can comfortably tolerate heat and dry conditions. Although this plant can survive low temperatures, winter frost can kill the leaves. However, rhizomes can be saved by keeping the soil dry. New leaves can emerge from such rhizomes in warmer conditions.
