Cylindrical Snake Plant (specifically 'Fernwood' or 'Mikado' cultivar)
Dracaena angolensis (formerly Sansevieria cylindrica)
A unique succulent featuring upright or arching, smooth, dark green cylindrical leaves with light green horizontal banding. This specific 'Fernwood' variety often grows in clusters and has thinner, more numerous leaves than the standard species.
- Light
- Thrives in bright indirect light but is highly adaptable to low light or full sun (avoid harsh afternoon sun which can scorch leaves).
- Water
- Low watering needs. Water every 2-4 weeks depending on environment, allowing the substrate to dry out fully. Drought-tolerant; over-watering is the primary cause of death.
- Growth
- Perennial succulent forming dense clusters. Can grow 1-3 feet tall depending on variety and pot size. Relatively slow growth rate.
Care instructions
Provide bright indirect light and water only when the soil is completely dry. Use a well-draining cactus mix and avoid overwatering, which leads to root rot. Feed sparingly during the growing season.
Growing details
Sunlight
Thrives in bright indirect light but is highly adaptable to low light or full sun (avoid harsh afternoon sun which can scorch leaves).
Watering
Low watering needs. Water every 2-4 weeks depending on environment, allowing the substrate to dry out fully. Drought-tolerant; over-watering is the primary cause of death.
Soil
Well-draining, sandy or gravelly succulent/cactus potting mix with a pH between 4.5 and 7.0.
Hardiness zone
USDA zones 10-11; not frost-tolerant (keep above 50°F / 10°C).
Growth habit
Perennial succulent forming dense clusters. Can grow 1-3 feet tall depending on variety and pot size. Relatively slow growth rate.
Bloom season
Rarely blooms indoors. When it does, it produces long stalks of small, greenish-white or pinkish fragrant flowers, usually in late spring or summer.
Propagation
Easily propagated through leaf cuttings or by dividing the rhizomes when the plant becomes root-bound.
Common pests & issues
Root rot from overwatering, mealybugs, and spider mites. Yellowing leaves usually indicate too much water.
Similar species
Sansevieria bacularis (thinner leaves with a purple sheath at the base) and Dracaena trifasciata (flat-leaved snake plant).
Interesting facts
Unlike most plants, snake plants perform a type of photosynthesis called CAM, which allows them to release oxygen at night, making them popular bedroom plants.