4" Sans. Fernwood

Sansevieria 'Fernwood' – Care Guide

Overview

Sansevieria ‘Fernwood’ is a compact, architectural houseplant with narrow, arching, dark green leaves featuring subtle tiger-stripe banding. It's a hybrid variety of Sansevieria cylindrica, known for its upright, spear-like foliage, drought tolerance, and low-maintenance needs. Ideal for modern spaces, office desks, or as a starter plant, it brings bold texture with minimal effort.

Key Characteristics

Botanical Name: Sansevieria (now reclassified as Dracaena ‘Fernwood’)
Common Name: Fernwood Snake Plant, Fernwood Mikado
Plant Type: Evergreen succulent houseplant
Mature Height: 12–24 inches (30–60 cm)
Spread: 6–12 inches (15–30 cm)
Foliage: Narrow, cylindrical leaves, dark green with lighter striping
Growth Habit: Upright, slightly arching rosette

Light Requirements

Bright, indirect light is best
Tolerates low light conditions very well
Will grow more slowly in shade and may become more upright in lower light

Watering Needs

Low water needs — allow the soil to dry completely between waterings
Water every 2–4 weeks, depending on light and humidity
In winter, water even less frequently
Avoid overwatering — root rot is the most common issue

Soil Requirements

Use a well-draining, sandy or cactus/succulent mix
Add extra perlite or pumice to standard potting soil if needed
Pot must have drainage holes

Temperature & Humidity

Ideal temperature range: 18–27°C (65–80°F)
Can tolerate a low of 10°C (50°F), but should be protected from cold drafts
Low to average humidity is ideal — does well in dry indoor air

Fertilizer

Feed once a month during spring and summer with a diluted balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 or 20-20-20)
No need to fertilize in fall or winter

Potting & Repotting

Repot every 2–3 years or when root-bound
Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage
Grows slowly, so doesn’t need frequent repotting

Propagation

Easy to propagate via:
Leaf cuttings
Division of root clumps

• Use a sharp, clean knife and allow cuttings to callous over before planting

Toxicity

Toxic to pets and humans if ingested
Can cause nausea, vomiting, or irritation in cats, dogs, or children

Common Problems

Soft, mushy leaves = overwatering
Wrinkled or droopy leaves = underwatering
Pale or faded color = insufficient light
Pests: Rare, but watch for mealybugs or spider mites

Benefits

Air-purifying: Filters formaldehyde, xylene, and benzene from indoor air
Low-maintenance: Perfect for beginners or low-light spaces
Stylish & sculptural: Adds vertical structure and modern flair to décor