Stuckyi Snake Plant
sansevieria stuckyi
Also known as: ["Stuckyi Mother-in-law's Tongue"]
Overview
A hardy succulent with upright, sword-like leaves, 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 stuckyi |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or outdoor in a sheltered spot
- 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 coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when dead leaves appear.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or yellowing leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement seasonally to avoid excessive heat or cold.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
bright indirect light to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; move outdoors in spring/summer for brighter light.
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, sandy potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; ensure soil dries between waterings.
Temperature
Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C). Tolerates a range but thrives in moderate warmth with slight cooling in winter.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes. Stem cuttings are the most common method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy stem cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity until rooted.
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 soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use sterilized tools; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture for rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools to avoid tearing.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed. Focus on removing damaged or dead leaves to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Pruning shears or sharp scissors, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Identify dead/damaged leaves; sterilize tools; cut cleanly at base; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer before the active growth period.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh well-draining soil, water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Sansevieria stuckyi prefers slightly crowded roots.
Checklist
Check root boundness; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; 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 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, coarse sand, or pumice to commercial potting mix to enhance drainage and aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf spotting in excessive heat; limp, waterlogged leaves in cold stress; slow growth in suboptimal temperatures.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf discoloration if prolonged below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Keep away from drafty windows or cold surfaces; provide a warm microclimate; reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can scorch leaves, cause dehydration, or lead to wilting if humidity is too low.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; ensure adequate ventilation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding; flush periodically.
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
ToxicCats are sensitive to the saponins in Sansevieria stuckyi, which can lead to gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting and diarrhea. The plant may also cause mild oral irritation if chewed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe saponins in Sansevieria stuckyi can cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs, leading to vomiting and diarrhea. Ingestion may also result in mild oral irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicSansevieria stuckyi contains saponins, which can cause gastrointestinal distress and irritation upon ingestion. The plant's sap may also cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Sansevieria stuckyi toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Sansevieria stuckyi?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Does Sansevieria stuckyi purify air?
A: Yes, it is known for its air-purifying qualities, removing toxins like formaldehyde from indoor air.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light to parti |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks, allowing so |
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