Discover how to care for the resilient and attractive Sansevieria Fernwood. This guide provides all the essential information to help your plant thrive.
Sansevieria Fernwood, also known as Snake Plant Fernwood, is a popular houseplant known for its upright, cylindrical leaves and low maintenance needs.
Perfect for beginners and experienced plant enthusiasts, this plant adds a touch of low maintenance greenery to any home.
Quick Look
- 🌞 Lighting needs: Low to bright, indirect light
- 💧 Watering needs: Low, allow soil to dry completely
- 📏 Mature Height: Up to 2 feet indoors
- 🌱 How to propagate: Leaf cuttings or division
- 🚫 Toxic/non-toxic: Toxic to pets
- 🌸 Flowering: Rarely indoors
Sansevieria Fernwood Care Guide
Sansevieria Fernwood is an evergreen succulent native to South Africa, South Asia, and Madagascar.
It features elongated, thick leaves with pointed ends that arch outwards slightly as the plant grows.
The leaves are patterned with a faded snakeskin pattern and have a thicker, tube-like structure compared to other snake plants, resembling aloe leaves.
Its unique appearance and contemporary look make it a standout in any plant collection.
Lighting Needs
Sansevieria Fernwood can tolerate a range of lighting conditions, from low light to bright, indirect light.
While it can survive in low light, providing it with ample bright, indirect light will promote faster growth.
Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause dry, brown tips or spots on the leaves.
If placing it near a window, use a light curtain to diffuse the light.
Watering Needs
This plant is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering. Water only when the soil is completely dry, typically every 1-2 weeks depending on humidity and temperature.
Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Always water the soil directly, not the leaves, and ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent pooling water.
Potting and Soil Requirements
Sansevieria Fernwood prefers well-draining soil, such as a cactus or succulent mix. Use a pot with drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom.
Re-potting is necessary only when the roots begin to grow out of the drainage holes or the pot is completely filled with leaves.
Choose a pot just one size larger and re-pot in the spring for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
Fertilize your Sansevieria Fernwood once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a specially formulated snake plant fertilizer.
Do not fertilize during winter when the plant is dormant, and avoid fertilizing if the plant has been recently re-potted or is experiencing health issues.
Pruning
Pruning is generally not necessary for Sansevieria Fernwood. However, you can remove any damaged or yellow leaves by cutting them at the base with clean, sharp scissors.
How to Propagate
Propagate Sansevieria Fernwood by removing and replanting baby pups, dividing the underground rhizomes, or using leaf cuttings.
Leaf cuttings can be placed in water, though this method takes longer.
Dividing the rhizomes is quicker and ensures successful propagation.
Temperature & Humidity
Sansevieria Fernwood prefers temperatures between 60°F (15°C) and 85°F (29°C). It can tolerate a wide range of humidity levels but thrives in average indoor humidity.
Avoid exposing the plant to cold drafts or temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Toxicity
Sansevieria Fernwood is toxic to pets and humans if ingested, causing diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea.
Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets to prevent any potential health issues.
Common Pests and Problems
- Mealybugs: Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: Increase humidity and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control.
- Root Rot: Prevent by using well-draining soil and avoiding overwatering.
With these care tips, your Sansevieria Fernwood should thrive, adding a touch of green and elegance to your indoor space. Enjoy the simplicity and beauty of this easy-to-care-for plant!