Whale Fin Snake Plant
sansevieria masoniana
Also known as: ["Whale Fin Plant","Mason's Congo"]
Overview
A striking succulent with large, paddle-shaped leaves that are dark green with light green stripes.
Benefits & Perks
["air purifying","low maintenance","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Genus: | Sansevieria |
| Botanical Name: | Sansevieria masoniana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright room with indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–32°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining mix of cactus soil, perlite, and a small amount of organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only damaged or overgrown parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense afternoon sun; place in east-facing windows for optimal light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
bright indirect light to partial shade
Rotate plant monthly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid low-light areas.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries out completely between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–85°F (18–29°C). Tolerates mild fluctuations but prefers stable conditions year-round.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut below node.
- Apply hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F), humid, and bright indirect light with good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, propagation tray, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools; avoid cutting into the rhizome.
Pruning Plan
Remove damaged or leggy leaves to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized knife.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut at base; remove debris; disinfect cuts if necessary.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid leaf wetting; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to once every 4–6 weeks.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress); leaf tips browning (heat stress); stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; causes leaf discoloration; increases susceptibility to root rot due to reduced evaporation.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid drafty areas; reduce watering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch; wilting; dehydration; reduced vigor due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water early in the day; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring–summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to the saponins in Sansevieria masoniana. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal irritation and discomfort, potentially leading to more serious health issues if not addressed promptly.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe saponins in Sansevieria masoniana can cause significant gastrointestinal upset in dogs, leading to discomfort and potential dehydration. While not usually life-threatening, ingestion should be treated seriously.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSansevieria masoniana contains saponins, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in significant quantities. The plant is not typically considered highly toxic to humans, but ingestion may lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Sansevieria masoniana toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Sansevieria masoniana?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Can Sansevieria masoniana grow in low light?
A: Yes, it tolerates low light conditions but thrives in bright, indirect light.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light to parti |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks, allowing so |
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