Plants / African Spear

African Spear

Dracaena angolensis

Also known as: Cylindrical Snake Plant, Spear Sansevieria

⚠ïļ Toxic to petsAsparagaceaeEasy to propagate

A complete guide to growing and propagating African Spear: its care needs, how to take cuttings and root them, how long propagation takes, and how to fix the most common problems.

African Spear care at a glance

☀ïļ Light
Bright, indirect light; tolerates lower light.
💧 Water
Water every 2-3 weeks; let soil dry completely.
ðŸŠī Soil
Fast-draining cactus/succulent mix.
ðŸ’Ļ Humidity
Tolerates dry air.
ðŸū Toxicity
Toxic to cats and dogs (saponins).

Track your african spear cuttings & propagation in SnipLog

Log when you took each cutting, set rooting reminders, and watch your propagation timeline — free on iPhone.

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How to propagate African Spear

Cutting or division

Difficulty: EasyTimeline: Cuttings root in 4-6 weeks; division is immediate.
  1. Cut a spear into sections (note which end is down) or divide the rhizome.
  2. Let cuts callus for 1-2 days.
  3. Root in soil; division keeps it true to form.

Common African Spear problems & fixes

Mushy base

Overwatering. Let soil dry fully and water far less.

Wrinkled spears

Underwatering. Give a thorough drink.

Falling over

Too little light or overwatering. Adjust both.

Track your african spear cuttings & propagation in SnipLog

Log when you took each cutting, set rooting reminders, and watch your propagation timeline — free on iPhone.

Get SnipLog →

Toxicity notes are a general guide based on ASPCA-style classifications — if a pet ingests any houseplant, contact your vet. Care needs vary with your home's conditions.