Metallic Sansevieria is a type of Sansevieria that is less common. Silver leafed varieties such as “Siam silver” and “Tenzan” are often called by this name. The leaves of this plant are pale green with fine grayish lines running along them.
It is extremely rare to find this Mother in laws tongue plant. Succulents of the genus Sansevieria are usually flowerless. It is believed to act as an air purifier by removing toxins from the air. Indoors, Sansevieria Metallica makes an excellent ornamental plant. If you live in a warmer climate, you can also grow it outside. Plants like this are very low maintenance and ideal for beginners.
Sansevieria Metallica belongs to the genus Dracaena (formerly Sansevieria) of the family Asparagaceae.
Also known as:
- Sansevieria Metallica Siam Silver
- Sansevieria Metallica Tenzan
- Sansevieria Manolin
- Sansevieria Guineensis Manolin
Features
Foliage
The foliage of this species is silvery metallic in color. As they grow, the leaves bend a little and stick out like swords. Their stripes are made of grey or grayish green bands of varying widths. Vertical grey bands are punctuated by faint horizontal bands of light green. Leaf edges are hardened, reddish, and slightly wavy.
Size
When grown in ideal conditions, the plant can reach a height of about 2-3 feet (60-90 cm). Plants in pots may reach a height of 2 feet. The flower stalk can also reach the same height as the plant.
Flower
On rare occasions, this plant produces vertical flower spikes containing small buds. The top one third of the spike is covered in clusters of flowers. A small, greenish white, ovoid shaped flower with a sweet fragrance. The fruits are small reddish orange berries.
Toxicity
This cultivar is mildly toxic to humans and animals, as with all Sansevierias. It can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, etc. if consumed in large amounts.
Pests
There are usually no pests or diseases that can infect Sansevieria Metallica. The plant is highly resistant to most common houseplant diseases. If the soil is not fast-draining, it may suffer from overwatering problems. When your plant is attacked by spider mites or mealybugs, wipe them off with rubbing alcohol.
Propagation
By vegetative propagation, you can grow new plants. Rhizomes can be planted or the root ball can be divided. To divide your plant, dig it out gently and clean the roots. Separate the rosette leaves from the soil and plant them. Cuttings from leaves are also a good option. Rooted cuttings grow into a new plant in approximately 3-4 months.
Growth Season
Because it is a Sansevieria, it grows best in warmer weather. Spring and summer are the active growth periods for this evergreen plant. Usually, the flowers bloom in late winter or early spring.
Growing Sansevieria Metallica
Soil
It is ideal for most plants in the Sansevieria group to grow in well-draining, gritty soil. For cacti and succulents, you can use a potting mix made for them. You can make your own potting mix by adding pumice, coco coir, or perlite to regular soil. Mixtures should not contain more than 50% pure soil. As long as the soil drains freely, the plant can grow in any type of soil.
Water
Water-tolerant Sansevieria Metallica cultivars are very rare. This plant does not require frequent watering. During the growing season, you can water once every 10 days. Once a month is sufficient for watering in winter. Water the soil only when it is dry for at least an inch and a half. Do not allow the roots to remain in standing water for too long, especially during the winter. Root rot is caused by overwatering.
Light
From bright to low light conditions, this plant can survive. It is highly adaptable to both outdoor and indoor conditions. For plant growth, moderate to bright natural light is ideal. The plant might be damaged by too much direct sunlight.
Environment
Temperature and humidity should be average for this plant. Ideally, the temperature should be between 60 and 85°F (16-29°C). If the roots are kept dry, it can survive cold weather. Frosting can damage the leaves, so it’s better to avoid temperatures below 40°F (4°C).