Scientific Name — Sansevieria cylindrica 'Boncel', also Dracaena angolensis 'Boncel'

Common Name(s) — Spear Orchid or Starfish Sansevieria

Plant Family — Asparagaceae

Background

Sansevieria cylindrica 'Boncel' is a fan-shaped species that grows spikes from the central point of the plant.

This Sansevieria is native to Angola. The Boncel prefers bright sun, warm temperatures, and low humidity.

Growth Requirements

Sun

Sansevieria ‘Boncel’ is an extremely tolerant and adaptable plant. It thrives in bright indirect light or dappled sun, and can even acclimate to a few hours of direct sun. Morning or evening sun is best, as intense afternoon sun can burn or bleach the leaves.

Though these plants will grow best in bright light, they are quite tolerant to low light. Because of this, they are commonly found in offices and other spaces where there is not an abundance of light.

Temperature/ Humidity 

Sansevieria plants prefer warm temperatures; between 70 and 90 ºF is ideal. They will decline in consistent temperatures below 50 ºF.

Hailing from a native tropical environment, Sansevieria cylindrica can tolerate a moderate amount of humidity, though they do not require it. Plants that are given plenty of humidity will need less frequent watering.

Water

Sansevieria cylindrica is an extremely drought-tolerant plant. They prefer to be watered thoroughly but infrequently.

When you water your plant, fully saturate the soil and be sure to let it dry out entirely between waterings. If you are unsure whether or not your Sansevieria soil has dried out, wait a few days before watering.

These plants thrive on neglect, and overwatering is the easiest way to kill them. If you are forgetful or a frequent traveler and away from home for long periods of time, Sansevieria cylindrica is a great plant for you!

Soil/Roots

Sansevieria plants grow best in a loose, sharply draining mix. A good quality cactus or succulent mix is perfect.

You can also use regular potting soil, but bear in mind this type of soil is more moisture retentive. You’ll want to adjust your watering schedule depending on how well your soil holds moisture.

Pumice stone, perlite, and orchid bark are excellent amendments to improve soil drainage and can be added up to 50%.

Flowering

Sansevieria cylindrica is a flowering plant, though it rarely blooms when grown indoors. The inflorescence is a long stalk that bears several small, greenish-white, sweet-smelling flowers.

Fertilization

Sansevierias do not require much fertilization. They will benefit from a light boost of nutrients during the spring and summer seasons when they are actively growing. Feed them with a balanced fertilizer diluted at a quarter to half strength. 

Propagation

Sansevieria reproduces asexually via underground rhizomes. These offsets, or pups, can be:

• Separated using a clean knife or garden spade.

• Allowed to callous over for a few days.

• Potted into their own containers.

Keep the soil lightly moist or provide a humid environment to encourage rooting.

Health

Diseases and Pests

Sansevieria cylindrica is a very robust plant and rarely falls victim to diseases or pests. The most common infestations experienced by these plants are scale.

Scale can be an aggressive pest, but it can be controlled effectively by treating the plant with a diluted neem oil solution two to three times a week until the scale is eradicated. Small-scale infestations of scale pests can be physically removed using a Q-tip dipped in rubbing alcohol.

Leaf spot is another issue that can plague Sansevieria. This disease is typically brought on by a fungus and sometimes by bacteria. It manifests as brown-colored spots along the stem that can be soft or mushy. Affected leaves should be removed to prevent the spread of the disease.

Maintenance (pruning, legginess, repotting)

Very little maintenance is required to keep these plants happy and thriving. They prefer to be root-bound and so can live in their pot for several years before repotting.

As a rule of thumb, Sansevieria cylindrica plants should be repotted in a new container that is 2”-3” wider in diameter, once every two to three years.

Toxicity 

All parts of the plant are toxic to humans and pets. If ingested, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can occur.

Keep this plant out of reach of small children and pets.

FAQs

Why do the limbs of my Sansevieria cylindrica feel soft?

If the leaves feel soft and you see some brown spots, your plant may have leaf spot disease. Don’t wait to remove the affected leaves, as the problem can spread quickly. Because excess moisture can contribute to this problem, it’s always best to let the soil of your Sansevieria cylindrica dry completely before watering.

Why isn’t my Sansevieria cylindrica flowering?

Although this is a flowering plant, Sansevieria cylindrica rarely blooms indoors. Even in ideal conditions with perfect care, it is unlikely yours will flower.

How do I know if my Sansevieria cylindrica is getting enough light?

This plant is extremely tolerant of poor light conditions. However, low light often results in slow growth. If you can provide it with bright indirect light or dappled sun, it will grow best.