Sansevieria Cylindrica Snake Plant Care Guide: Everything You Need To Know
- 23 Apr, 2025

Sansevieria Cylindrica is popularly known as the African Spear Plant or the Cylindrical Snake Plant. It is a unique and sculptural house plant loved for its architectural size and low-maintenance nature. Its sleek, spear-shaped leaves grow upright and are favored by both beginner plant parents to interior design enthusiasts.
Whether you’re a total newbie or an expert gardener, our complete care guide will walk you through everything you need to know about growing and maintaining a healthy Sansevieria Cylindrical Snake Plant.
Sansevieria Cylindrica The Details:
The succulent species Sansevieria Cylindrica is native to southern Africa's Angola. Its leaves grow upright in cylindrical, spear-shaped formations rather than flat, sword-like ones, it is closely related to the more common snake plant (Sansevieria trifasciata). These leaves, which are frequently green-gray with faint stripes, can grow alone or in braided clusters.
Ideal Light Conditions:
This is extremely adaptable when it comes to light, because it’s a succulent species.
- Best Light Condition: Bright, indirect sunlight.
- Tolerates: Low light, artificial lighting, and even partial shade.
- Avoidable: Harsh direct sunlight for long hours—it can scorch the leaves.
If you want more rapid growth and vibrant coloring for your indoor space, place it near an east or south-facing window with filtered light.
Watering Requirements:
- This plant is mostly drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering.
- Water only when the top 2–3 inches of soil in the pot are completely dry.
- In the growing season (spring/summer), water every 2–3 weeks.
- In winter, cut back to once a month or even less.
- Warning: Overwatering is the number 1 killer of snake plants and causes root rot.
- Always check soil moisture and make sure the pot has a working drainage hole.
Temperature & Humidity Preferences:
- The ideal temperature range for this plant lies between 15°C to 35°C (60°F to 95°F)
- It can bear colder temperatures, but not below 10°C.
- Live well in normal household humidity. No misting is required.
- Always keep away from heaters or air conditioners.
Ideal Soil Mixture and Repotting Tips:
The right soil mix is always important for any plant, so what is the best for the sansevieria cylindrica snake plants.
Best Soil Type:
- Well-draining succulent or cactus mix.
- Mix your own: 50% potting soil + 25% sand + 25% perlite.
Repotting Tips:
- Repot every 2–3 years, or when roots start circling the bottom.
- Choose a pot just 2 inches larger than the current one.
- Use terracotta or breathable pots to prevent from water buildup or you can use self-watering pots to become hassle-free..
Pruning and Maintenance:
- This plant needs almost no maintenance, but occasional care helps keep it tidy and healthy.
- Prune damaged, dried or yellow leaves using sharp scissors.
- Gently wipe with a damp cloth to remove dust from leaves.
- If you’ve braided the leaves, ensure the braids aren’t too tight to allow growth.
Propagation Methods for African Spear Plant:
Sansevieria Cylindrica is easy to propagate, perfect for expanding your plant family or gifting.
Method 1: Division:
- Remove the plant from its pot.
- Gently separate clumps at the base where roots and shoots connect.
- Replant each section in fresh soil mixture.
Method 2: Leaf Cuttings:
- This method is slower but satisfying:
- Cut a healthy leaf into 2–3-inch sections.
- Let the cuttings dry for 1–2 days to form a callus.
- Plant them upright in moist cactus mix.
- Water sparingly and keep in bright, indirect light.
Note: Cuttings may revert to green and not retain the original variegation.
Is Sansevieria Cylindrica Toxic?
- This plant is toxic to pets and children if ingested. Keep away from your pets, they may feel irritated.
- Contains saponins, which can cause nausea, vomiting and digestive upset.
- Keep out of reach of cats, dogs, and small children.
Will this plant be beneficial for Air-Purifying?
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This plant isn’t just stylish—it’s functional.
According to NASA’s Clean Air Study, Sansevieria species can help remove harmful toxins like:
- Benzene [ C6H6 ] 2. Formaldehyde [ H₂C=O ] 3. Xylene [ (CH₃)₂C₆H₄ ] 4. Trichloroethylene [ C₂HCl₃ ]
- They also convert CO₂ to Oxygen even at night, making them ideal for bedrooms.
For Home Decor Experts: Styling & Advanced Care:
If you’re a plant lover looking to elevate your indoor decor, this plant offers endless styling potential.
Styling Tips:
- Modern Minimalists: Place in geometric pots for a sleek, stylish and clean look.
- Boho Interiors: Pair with clay or terracotta planters on natural wood stands.
- Small Spaces: Use braided versions on shelves or desks.
Advanced Care Tips:
- Fertilize with a diluted liquid cactus fertilizer during the growing season (once every 4 - 6 weeks).
- Rotate the plant occasionally for even growth.
- If leaf tips brown, check for salt buildup or fluoride in tap water—use filtered water if possible.
Why Choose Garth Greens for Your Sansevieria Cylindrica?
We deliver premium-quality Sansevieria Cylindrica plants with ultra-care packaging, ensuring they arrive fresh and thriving. Whether you’re gifting a plant or expanding your collection, you can count on us for hassle-free, healthy plant delivery every time.
Conclusion
It’s more than just a beautiful snake plant it’s a low-maintenance, air-purifying and stylish addition to any indoor decor.. With the right care, it can thrive for years and even reward you with new growth and pups.
Whether you’re just starting or have a home filled with plants, the African Spear Plant is an excellent companion for your green lifestyle.
Happy growing from all of us at Garth Greens!
Frequently Asked Questions about Sansevieria Cylindrica Snake Plant:
Q1. Is Sansevieria Cylindrica easy for a beginner gardener?
Yes, it's one of the easiest plants to grow indoors.
Q2. How often should this plant be watered?
Water every 2–3 weeks, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings in summer and spring. In winter, 1 time in a month.
Q3. Can I keep Sansevieria Cylindrica in a low-light room?
It is somewhat adaptable with low light, but prefers bright, indirect light for best growth.
Q4. Does it need high humidity?
No, average room humidity is perfect. No misting is needed.
Q5. Is this plant pet-friendly?
No, it is toxic to pets if ingested. Keep it away from curious animals.
Q6. Can I keep it in the bedroom?
Absolutely! It releases oxygen even at night, making it the best solution for bedrooms.