Dracaena angolensis (Dracaena angolensis)
Also known as: Sansevieria cylindrica, African Spear
Dracaena angolensis, also known as African spear or spear sansevieria, is a succulent plant indigenous to Angola in Southern Africa. Historically, this plant was categorized under the genus Sansevieria, commonly referred to as snake-plants. This name is still occasionally used synonymously. However, in the 21st century, it was reclassified under the genus Dracaena, also known as dragon-trees, due to improved testing methods, physical comparisons, and other analyses that displayed ample similarities between the two genera, justifying the reorganization. Dracaena belongs to the Asparagaceae family, which connects it with other groups such as Asparagus, Agave, Beaucarnea (pony-tail palms), Chlorophytum (spider plants), Camassia, Dasylirion (sotols), Hesperaloe (Texan or red yuccas), and Yucca (Joshua trees).
In This Article
Attributes of Dracaena angolensis
Lifespan
Dracaena angolensis, commonly known as the African Spear or Cylindrical Snake Plant, is a slow-growing succulent plant with an indeterminate growth cycle as it persists year-round in suitable conditions.
Plant Height
up to 6 feet
Leaf Color
Grayish-green with darker bands
Flower Color
White to greenish-white
Images of Dracaena angolensis
Quickly Identify Dracaena angolensis
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Identify Dracaena angolensis by its long, tubular leaves that emerge from a central rosette and have a dark green color with faint lighter bands.
Scientific Classification of Dracaena angolensis
Phylum
Angiosperms
Class
Monocots
Order
Asparagales
Family
Asparagaceae
Genus
Dracaena
Species
D. angolensis
Planting and Growing of Dracaena angolensis
Care Difficulty
Easy
Watering Schedule
Every 2 days
Sunlight Requirements
Partial sun
Sunshine Duration
4-8 hours
Ideal Temperature
70-80℉
Soil Type
Potting Mix, Peat Mix
Soil pH
6.5-7.5
Fertilizer Type
Balanced
Pruning Season
Spring, Summer
Pruning Area
Branches, Leaves
Pruning Frequency
2 times a year
Repotting Season
Spring
Pot Type
Plastic, Ceramic
How to Water Dracaena angolensis?
Dracaena angolensis prefers to be watered thoroughly until water drains out of the bottom of the pot. Ensure that the soil is completely moistened but not soggy. It's crucial to let the soil dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
What are the symptoms of an underwatered Dracaena angolensis?
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What should I do if my Dracaena angolensis is not getting enough water?
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What are the symptoms of an overwatered Dracaena angolensis?
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How to save an overwatered Dracaena angolensis?
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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Dracaena angolensis?
Dracaena angolensis thrives best under partial sun, meaning it appreciates morning sunlight or late afternoon light but requires protection from midday intensity. This balance ensures robust growth and vibrant color while avoiding light stress.
What is the optimal light level for Dracaena angolensis?
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How can I achieve the ideal lighting for my plant?
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What benefits will my Dracaena angolensis experience with ideal lighting?
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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Dracaena angolensis?
Dracaena angolensis thrives best in a temperature range of 70°F to 80°F. This range supports optimal metabolic functions, encouraging healthy growth and vivid coloration of the leaves. Maintaining this range ensures that the plant can efficiently photosynthesize and absorb nutrients.
What Soil is Best for Dracaena angolensis?
Dracaena angolensis thrives in well-draining soil, which prevents root rot by not retaining excess moisture. This type of soil ensures that the plant gets just the right amount of hydration and air at the roots. The plant doesn't require highly fertile soil but does best with moderate nutrient levels. This helps in maintaining healthy growth without the risk of nutrient burn often seen with overly rich soils. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. This simulates the plant's natural habitat and encourages healthy root development by not keeping the roots waterlogged.
How to Fertilize Dracaena angolensis?
For Dracaena angolensis, use a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer. Mix one part fertilizer with four parts water to avoid over-fertilizing. Apply this concoction ensuring the soil remains moist but not overly saturated.
How to Prune Dracaena angolensis?
Begin by disinfecting your cutting tool with rubbing alcohol to prevent contamination. Trim back any discolored or dead leaves close to the stalk. For shaping, cut just above a node where new growth is expected. Be cautious not to remove more than one-third of the plant to avoid stress.
How to Propagate Dracaena angolensis plant?
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Select a healthy stem and make a clean cut just below a leaf node. Remove the lower leaves to prevent rot and dip the cutting in rooting hormone before placing it in soil.
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Choose a well-draining soil medium to avoid waterlogging. A mix of sand and peat moss or perlite can be ideal for promoting root growth while providing optimal drainage.
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Plant the cutting in the prepared soil and water gently. Keep the soil moist but not saturated. Position the plant in a warm location with indirect sunlight for best results.
How to Repot Dracaena angolensis plant?
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Look for signs like roots growing out of the drainage holes, soil becoming compacted, or slowed growth. These are strong indicators that your Dracaena angolensis is ready for a new pot to grow better.
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Opt for a pot that is just one size larger than the current one. Ensure it has adequate drainage holes. This prevents waterlogging and promotes healthy root growth, which is crucial for the well-being of Dracaena angolensis.
3
Select a well-draining cactus mix to ensure excess water can escape easily, preventing root rot. A light, airy soil blend will mimic the plant's natural habitat, offering benefits like optimal growth and disease resistance.
Toxicity
ingestion
WARNING
The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.
