Metallica Snake Plant
sansevieria metallica
Also known as: ["Metallica Dracaena","Metallic Sansevieria"]
Overview
A striking succulent with metallic-blue foliage and a compact growth habit, native to tropical regions.
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 metallica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–32°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix, such as cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense midday sun; place near east-facing windows for optimal light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright indirect light to partial shade
Rotate plant monthly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid dark corners.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy potting mix
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; ensure soil dries between waterings.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C). Tolerates a range of 50–90°F (10–32°C) but thrives in moderate warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain moderate warmth year-round.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during active growth
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy stem cutting.
- Let it callus for a day.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent rot; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut leaves at the base with a clean, sharp tool.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning to remove damaged or unsightly 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.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; avoid oversized containers.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Sansevieria prefers being slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil base until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even saturation of the root zone. Avoid wetting the foliage. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to once every 4–6 weeks, depending on conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress); brown leaf tips or stunted growth (heat stress).
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root rot due to reduced metabolic activity and water uptake.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or dry out; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water early in the day.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse tools after use.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 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 Sansevieria metallica. The saponins present in the plant can cause discomfort but are not life-threatening in small amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe saponins in Sansevieria metallica can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested. While not highly toxic, ingestion may lead to discomfort and mild symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSansevieria metallica contains saponins, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in significant quantities. The plant is generally considered safe for handling but may cause mild irritation if ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Sansevieria metallica toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Sansevieria metallica?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Does Sansevieria metallica require bright light?
A: It tolerates low to bright indirect light, but avoid direct sunlight.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light to parti |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks |
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