Sansevieria Trifasciata Black Dragon, also known as the Snake Plant, Black Dragon is the common name for Sansevieria Trifasciata ‘Midnight Future’, as well as for plants grown through leaf propagation of Sansevieria Trifasciata ‘Sheri’.
‘Sheri’ is a variegated snake plant, but its leaf propagation does not retain its variation and grows the dark green leaves known as ‘Black Dragon’.
| Botanical Name (Latin Name/Scientific Name): | Sansevieria Trifasciata ‘Future Midnight’, Sansevieria Trifasciata ‘Sheri’ |
| Common Name: | Snake Plant, Black Dragon |
With its dark green leaves and unique texture, the Black Dragon adds an elegant touch to any indoor space.
In this comprehensive care guide, we will explore everything you need to know about caring for this beautiful plant, from light and water requirements to propagation, pruning, and common problems.
Sansevieria Black Dragon Care Guide
Light Requirements
Sansevieria Black Dragon thrives in medium indirect light, which is equivalent to around 750 lux or 75 foot candles. It can tolerate up to 5-6 hours of direct sunlight per day, but too much direct sun can cause the leaves to burn.
If you are unable to provide these light levels, the plant can still survive in lower light conditions of around 50 lux.
However, keep in mind that in low light, the new growth may be thin and elongated. Therefore, it is best to provide as much light as possible for a healthier and more vibrant plant.
– Can Sansevieria Black Dragon Tolerate Very Low Light?
Yes, Sansevieria Black Dragon has a remarkable ability to tolerate very low light conditions, as low as 50 lux. However, while it can survive in low light, it may not thrive and the new growth may become weak and spindly.
To ensure the best growth and overall health of the plant, it is recommended to provide it with medium indirect light, preferably over 750 lux.
Water Needs
Sansevieria Black Dragon is a drought-tolerant plant and should be watered only when the soil has completely dried out. To determine if it’s time to water your plant, insert a chopstick into the soil and pull it out.
If the chopstick comes out clean and dry, it’s time to water. On the other hand, if it comes out with soil residue or feels wet, hold off on watering for another week.
Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues, so it’s better to underwater than overwater this plant.
– Humidity Needs
Sansevieria Black Dragon is adaptable to various humidity levels, but it thrives in humidity ranging from 5% to 25%. However, it can tolerate higher or lower humidity levels without any major issues.
Unlike some other plants, maintaining specific humidity levels is not crucial for the well-being of this plant. As long as it is provided with proper light and water, it will thrive in a variety of humidity conditions.
Temperature Requirements
Sansevieria Black Dragon prefers temperatures between 18 to 24 degrees Celsius (65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit).
It can tolerate slightly lower temperatures, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below 16 degrees Celsius (60 degrees Fahrenheit) can slow down foliage and root growth.
Avoid placing the plant in drafty areas or near cold windows during the winter months.
Fertilizing
Fertilizing Sansevieria Black Dragon is not necessary if you repot the plant annually. By repotting, the plant will receive nutrients from the fresh soil.
However, if you choose to fertilize, use a succulent fertilizer with low nitrogen content once every 2 to 4 weeks.
A suitable option is Espoma Succulent and Cacti Fertilizer, which has an N-P-K ratio of 1-2-2. Follow the instructions on the packaging to avoid overfertilizing, as excess nutrients can harm the plant.
Soil
The ideal soil for Sansevieria Black Dragon is a well-draining succulent or cacti potting mix. These mixes are designed to dry out quickly between waterings, preventing waterlogged conditions that can lead to root rot.
You can create your own potting mix by combining one part store-bought potting mix with one part perlite, pumice, or coarse sand.
Alternatively, you can purchase a high-quality succulent and cacti soil from a garden center or online retailer.
Repotting
Sansevieria Black Dragon generally requires repotting once a year to provide it with fresh nutrients and space for growth. When repotting, follow these steps:
- Remove the plant from its current container, gently loosening the root ball.
- Examine the root ball and trim any soft, mushy, or dead roots.
- Fill one-third of the new container with fresh well-draining soil.
- Place the Sansevieria Black Dragon into the new container and fill the remaining space with soil.
- Press the soil gently around the plant, ensuring that it is stable and well-supported.
- Allow the soil to fully dry out before watering the newly repotted plant.
Toxicity To Humans and Pets
It is important to note that Sansevieria Black Dragon is toxic to both humans and pets if ingested. The plant contains compounds that can cause gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Additionally, the sap of the plant can cause skin irritation or rash if it comes into contact with the skin. Keep the plant out of reach of children and pets, and wash your hands thoroughly after handling it.
Pruning Snake Plants
Pruning Sansevieria Black Dragon is generally not necessary unless there is dead or diseased growth. However, if you wish to propagate the plant or maintain its shape, you can prune the leaves.
Use sharp, sterilized pruning shears to remove any unwanted or damaged leaves. Be cautious while handling the plant, as the sap can cause skin irritation.
After pruning, you can use the cuttings to propagate new plants, as we will discuss later in this guide.
Propagation
Sansevieria Black Dragon can be propagated through various methods, including leaf cuttings, division, and rhizome cuttings.
Each method has its own unique steps and requirements. Let’s explore each propagation method in detail.
– Leaf Cutting In Water
To propagate Sansevieria Black Dragon through leaf cuttings in water, follow these steps:
- Cut off a whole leaf or divide a single leaf into several sections.
- Place the cuttings in a propagation dish filled with water, ensuring that the same leaf orientation is maintained.
- Position the dish in a bright location with at least 10,000 lux of light.
- Replace the water every week to maintain oxygen levels and prevent the growth of damaging bacteria.
- Once the cuttings develop 2-3 inches of roots, transfer them to well-draining soil.
- Water the soil only when it has fully dried out.
- In a few months to a year, new leaves will begin to grow from the cuttings, resulting in new Black Dragon plants.
– Leaf Cutting In Soil
To propagate Sansevieria Black Dragon through leaf cuttings in soil, follow these steps:
- Cut off a whole leaf or divide a single leaf into several sections.
- Use a shallow pot filled with a well-draining soil mix (1 part soil, 1 part perlite).
- Place the cuttings in the pot, ensuring that the same leaf orientation is maintained.
- Put the pot in a warm spot with bright light, preferably over 10,000 lux.
- Water the soil only when it is completely dry.
- If the soil remains wet for longer than a few days, increase the light levels and consider repotting the plant in a terra cotta pot for better drainage.
- With proper care, new leaves will emerge from the cuttings within a few months to a year.
– Division
Sansevieria Black Dragon can be propagated through division when it has multiple crowns in the container. Follow these steps to propagate through division:
- Remove the Black Dragon plant from its container.
- Gently remove enough soil to expose the rhizome connecting the two plants.
- Use a sterilized knife to cut the rhizome in the middle, separating the two plants.
- Let the cut rhizomes dry out for 1-2 days.
- Pot each plant separately in well-draining soil.
- Water the plants only when the soil has fully dried out.
- In time, each plant will grow independently, resulting in two individual Black Dragon plants.
– Rhizome Cuttings
To propagate Sansevieria Black Dragon through rhizome cuttings, follow these steps:
- Remove the plant from its pot and gently remove the soil to expose the rhizomes (fleshy thick roots).
- Sterilize a knife with rubbing alcohol to prevent the spread of diseases.
- Cut off a piece of the rhizome, preferably a larger section.
- Let the cut rhizome sit for a couple of days to allow the wound to heal.
- Place the rhizome in a shallow dish filled with a well-draining soil mix (1 part soil, 2 parts perlite).
- Keep the dish in a warm location and water the soil every 2-4 weeks, ensuring that the soil fully dries out between waterings.
- Within a few weeks, the rhizome will develop roots, and in a few months to a year, new leaves will emerge from the rhizome.
Common Problems
Sansevieria Black Dragon is generally a resilient plant, but it can still encounter a few common problems. Here are some issues you may come across and how to address them:
– Shriveled Leaves
Shriveled leaves are usually a sign of underwatering. To remedy this, water your Sansevieria Black Dragon thoroughly and ensure that the soil is completely saturated. Within 1-2 days, the leaves should regain their normal appearance.
– Soft and Mushy Leaves
Overwatering can lead to root rot, resulting in soft and mushy leaves. If you notice this issue, gently remove the plant from its container, remove all the soil, and trim any mushy or soft roots.
Repot the plant in fresh well-draining soil and provide it with proper care, ensuring that the soil fully dries out between waterings.
– Pests
While Sansevieria Black Dragon is generally resistant to pests, scale and thrips can occasionally infest the plant.
To treat scale, apply horticultural oil, insecticidal soap, or neem oil, making sure to thoroughly cover both the topside and underside of the leaves.
Repeat the treatment as needed. For thrips, systemic insecticides are often more effective. Dissolve 1 teaspoon of systemic insecticide in a gallon of water and water the plant, allowing it to absorb the insecticide through the roots.
Conclusion
Sansevieria Black Dragon is a beautiful and low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of light and humidity conditions. By providing it with the proper care, including the right amount of light, water, and well-draining soil, you can enjoy the beauty of this stunning houseplant for years to come.
Whether you choose to propagate it through leaf cuttings, division, or rhizome cuttings, the Black Dragon will continue to add a touch of elegance to your indoor space. Remember to be cautious with its toxicity to humans and pets, and address any common problems promptly to ensure the plant’s overall health and longevity.