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Sansevieria cylindrica

Accession Count: 109
Common Name: African spear
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Family Name: Asparagaceae
Botanical Name: Sansevieria cylindrica
Synonyms:
Family Synonyms: Agavaceae
Sub Species:
Variety:
Forma:
Cultivar:
Characteristics: S. cylindrica is an evergreen succulent that develops strap-shaped, stiff leaves from a basal rosette. The leaves are rounded and sharp tipped, growing up to 7 feet (2.1 m) in height. Underground, the plant spreads via rhizomes, developing numerous aggregations close to and far from the parent plant. From winter to spring, pink buds may emerge from a spiked raceme, followed by greenish-white flowers, tubular and tinged pink. While younger plants are more likely to bloom, long flower spikes may appear erratically on mature plants, occasionally followed by orange berries.
Compound: San cyl
Geographic Origin: Southeast Africa
Ecozone Origin:
Biome Origin:
Natural History: Sansevieria cylindrica originates from Angola, Southern Africa, and commonly forms dense colonies in the wild. 
The species was first named by Wenceslas (Wenzel) Bojer, when it was included within Hortus Mauritianus 349 (1837). The genus, Sansevieria, was named for Raimondo di Sangro, the Prince of Sanseviero, Italy (modern day Sansevero). The specific epithet, cylindrica, was likely derived from "cylinder", for the cylindrical leaves.
Cultivation Notes: When young, the stalks of the African spear plant can be braided and tied together to create an interesting design.
Water moderately during the summer growing season, about once every two weeks. During the winter, limit irrigation to once a month. Ensure that the soil is allowed to completely dry in between waterings, and do not allow the leaves to become wet, as this can lead to rot. At the same time, prevent root rot by siting in a sandy, well-draining cactus soil, supplemented with peaty compost. Maintain a pH between 6 and 7.
The African spear plant prefers bright and direct sunlight, but care should be taken to avoid overly intense light, which can lead to yellowing leaves. 
While, this species can tolerate partial to complete shade, plants will suffer reduced growth in dark conditions. Specimens must also be prevented from frost, as S. cylindrica is only hardy to 40°F, USDA hardiness zone 11.
Feed during the growing season with a succulent fertilizer diluted to half strength, and cease feeding in winter. Sansevieria cylindrica should be repotted as necessary during the spring, and cultivated in a wide pot, as plants are top-heavy. Given these cautions, S. cylindrica is a tough species and will grow readily if overwatering and freezing are avoided.
Underground rhizomes are the main method of propagation, but S. cylindrica can also be propagated by dividing tubers, corms, or bulbs; through leaf cuttings; and by planting seeds.
Ethnobotany:
Culturally, a fiber can be made from the African snake plant’s leaves and is useful for creating deep sea dredging ropes. Medicinally, the species exhibits pharmaceutical ability, possessing antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
At the same time, however, S. cylindrica is mildly toxic if ingested and should be kept away from children and pets. Despite their toxicity, some Sansevieria species can be used as air purifiers, acting as a cure for “sick building syndrome”.
Height: 0 - 5 feet
Width: 0 - 5 feet
Growth Rate: Slow Growing
Grow Season: Spring
Flower Season: Winter
Color: Pink
Function: Accent
Spread: Spreading
Allergen: Non-allergenic
Invasive: Benign
Toxicity: Benign
Hardy: Tender
Water Use: Low water Use
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Sansevieria cylindrica