African Spear
Also known as
Cylindrical Snake Plant, Spear Sansevieria, Skyline Spear, Dracaena cylindrica
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
Get the appAbout African Spear
Dracaena angolensis, formerly known as Sansevieria cylindrica, is a drought-tolerant, rhizomatous succulent prized for its architectural, upright, cylindrical leaves. Native to arid regions of Angola, it grows in fans or solitary spears from underground rhizomes, each leaf smooth, dark to grey-green with subtle, transverse banding. Mature plants can produce tall, slender inflorescences carrying greenish-white, tubular flowers that are strongly fragrant in the evening, a trait linked to pollination by nocturnal insects. Adapted to high light and poor, fast-draining substrates, it uses CAM photosynthesis to conserve water, making it exceptionally forgiving indoors. Its tough, fiber-rich leaves and tolerance of neglect suit minimal-care homes and offices, where it serves as a sculptural accent or living “spear” arrangement (often braided when young). With proper drainage, infrequent watering, and moderate feeding during the growing season, it will slowly clump and fill its container. It is moderately long-lived, resists most pests, and thrives across a broad humidity range typical of conditioned interiors.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for African Spear
Water
Allow the mix to dry thoroughly between waterings; aim for nearly dry to the pot’s bottom. Then water deeply until excess drains, emptying the saucer. In bright, warm conditions this may be every 2–3 weeks; in lower light or cool rooms, extend to 4–6+ weeks. Avoid letting water sit in leaf bases. Use room-temperature water, and reduce frequency in winter. Chronic overwatering, not drought, is the main risk.
Light
Thrives in bright, indirect light and tolerates a few hours of gentle direct sun (east or west exposure). It also survives low light, but growth slows and leaves may elongate. Avoid harsh, unacclimated midday sun in hot climates, which can scorch. Increase light gradually if moving from shade. Rotate the pot occasionally to keep the fan symmetrical and prevent leaning toward the brightest source.
Nutrients
Feed sparingly. During spring and summer, apply a balanced, dilute fertilizer (e.g., 1/4–1/2 strength 10-10-10 or a low-nitrogen cactus/succulent formula) every 4–6 weeks. If using a slow-release granular product, reduce or skip liquid feeds for 2–3 months after application. Always water lightly before fertilizing to avoid root burn, and flush the pot with clear water every few months to remove salts. Withhold fertilizer in fall and winter when growth slows.
Temperature
Best at 65–85°F (18–29°C) with good air movement. Short dips to 55°F (13°C) are tolerated, but growth stalls; below 50°F (10°C) risks cold injury. Protect from frost and cold drafts, especially after watering. Outdoors, give shelter from heavy rain and bring inside before nights consistently drop under 55°F. Gradually acclimate plants moved between indoor and outdoor conditions to prevent stress.
