Blue Sansevieria, Blue Snake Plant, Samson Plant
sansevieria ehrenbergii
Also known as: ["Blue Sansevieria","Blue Snake Plant","Samson Plant"]
Overview
A hardy succulent species of Sansevieria known for its tall, narrow, blue-green leaves with sharp tips.
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 ehrenbergii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright location or outdoor in sheltered garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on selective leaf removal.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate direct morning sun but prefers filtered light in hotter parts of the day.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to direct sun to avoid scorching; place in east-facing windows for best results; shield from intense afternoon sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
bright indirect light to full sun
Rotate plant monthly for even growth; avoid direct afternoon sun; adjust light in winter if indoors.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries out fully between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy potting mix
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C). Tolerates mild frost but thrives in warm, stable conditions.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temps; protect from sudden drops.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during active growth (spring and summer)
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F), high humidity (60–70%), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix
Quick Tips
Use clean tools; keep medium moist but not waterlogged; 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
Minimal pruning to remove damaged or yellowing leaves and maintain shape.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife
Checklist
Disinfect tools; cut at base; remove debris; inspect for pests
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound, typically every 2–3 years, as Sansevieria prefers being slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; avoid overpotting
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid leaf wetting
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly 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 to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf tip browning in cold; wilting or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot due to reduced water uptake.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; reduce watering; use a space heater if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown spots; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water early morning or late evening; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 6–8 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicSimilar to dogs, cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Sansevieria ehrenbergii due to the presence of saponins.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe saponins in Sansevieria ehrenbergii can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested. The plant is not typically life-threatening but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSansevieria ehrenbergii contains saponins, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in significant quantities. The plant is generally considered non-toxic for minor contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Sansevieria ehrenbergii toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Sansevieria ehrenbergii?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Can Sansevieria ehrenbergii grow in low light?
A: Yes, it tolerates low light conditions but thrives in bright, indirect light.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light to full |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks, allowing so |
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