Dracaena hanningtonii

Common Names

Snake Plant, Mother-in-Law's Tongue, Hannington's Dracaena, Blue Sansevieria, Sword Sansevieria, East African Wild Sisal, Olduupai

Summary

Native to northeastern and eastern tropical Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, this rhizomatous subshrub features upright sword-like leaves that are dark green with lighter green cross-banding and forms dense clusters via rhizomes in desert or dry shrubland habitats.

In cultivation, bright indirect light is preferred though lower light is tolerated; moderate temperatures and low humidity are suitable; water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings in well-draining soil; fertilize monthly with a balanced 10-10-10 during the growing season; repot every 2 to 3 years or when root-bound; propagation via leaf cuttings or rhizome division; adaptable for indoor and outdoor settings.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

0.5-3 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 10

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally partial sun.

Soil Type

Well-draining soil, sandy or cactus mix.

Soil Drainage

Well-draining soil

Soil pH

6.5-6.5

Foliage Color

Dark green to bluish green, sometimes with lighter green cross-banding.

Growth Rate

Very slow; the slowest grower ever.

Seasons of Interest

Summer and Winter

Propagation Methods

Leaf cuttings, rhizome division

Attracts Wildlife

Unknown whether it attracts bees, hummingbirds, butterflies, other pollinators, or birds