African Spear Plant Plant Care
Dracaena angolensis (Welw. ex Carrière) Byng & Christenh.
Dracaena angolensis, commonly known as African spear or the spear sansevieria, is a succulent plant native to Angola in Southern Africa. For years, it was placed within the genus Sansevieria (snake-plants), a specific name which is still used synonymously by some; in the 21st century, Sansevieria became part of Dracaena (dragon-trees), after improved testing methods, physical comparisons, and other analyses found sufficient commonalities between the two genera to warrant subsumption.
Every 7–14 days
Bright indirect to low light
65–80°F
40–60%
What Is the African Spear Plant?
African Spear Plant (Dracaena angolensis) belongs to the Asparagaceae family within the Dracaena genus. African Spear Plant is native to Angola in Southern Africa. African Spear Plant is also known as African bowstring hemp, Horn of plenty, Elephant's trunk.
African Spear Plant displays an upright, tree-like growth habit, reaching up to 6 inches tall with a spread of approximately 3 inches. African Spear Plant produces rarely flowers indoors, small white blooms in clusters.
Leaf size: approximately 18 inches.
How Often Should You Water a African Spear Plant?
Dracaena angolensis requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–14 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the African Spear Plant Need?
African Spear Plant thrives in bright indirect to low light light conditions. The optimal light range is 50–250 lux. Avoid placing African Spear Plant in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Bright indirect to low light
50–250 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the African Spear Plant Prefer?
Dracaena angolensis grows best at temperatures between 65°F and 80°F. African Spear Plant prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.
Temperature
65–80°F
Humidity
40–60%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a African Spear Plant?
Well-draining, peat-based potting mix with perlite for aeration. Good drainage is essential for African Spear Plant to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a African Spear Plant?
Repot every 2-3 years in spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a African Spear Plant?
African Spear Plant can be propagated through stem cuttings, air layering. Similar propagation techniques also apply to corn plant plant care, which shares the same genus.
Fertilizing
Every 4 months
During the growing season
Is the African Spear Plant Toxic to Pets and Children?
Toxic to Pets & Children
Toxic to cats and dogs, can cause mild gastrointestinal issues if ingested by humans
What Pests and Diseases Affect the African Spear Plant?
African Spear Plant is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, scale insects. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the African Spear Plant Need?
African Spear Plant grows outdoors in USDA Zone 10b – 12b. Native to Angola in Southern Africa, African Spear Plant is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow African Spear Plant as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 10b – 12b
Keep exploring plants
African Spear Plant is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Dracaena genus — compare its care with other Dracaena species on PlantoScan.
African Spear Plant thrives in bright light and direct sun — see other bright-light plants.
More Dracaena Species
Other Dracaena species in PlantoScan's care catalogue share similar watering, light, and soil preferences:
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