Sansevieria intermedia N.E.Br.
Sansevieria intermedia N.E.Br. is a plant species in the Asparagaceae family, native to East Africa. Also known as the African spear, this plant has many common names such as Spear Sansevieria, East African Wild Sisal, and Bowstring Hemp. This species is quite popular as houseplants due to their distinct look and hardiness.
Appearance
The Sansevieria intermedia has long, upright, and sword-shaped leaves with pointed tips that grow up to three feet tall. Its leaves are a beautiful deep green color with a series of light green bands that run across them horizontally. While its leaves are rigid, they are slightly fleshy and can store water, making them drought-resistant. When this plant blooms, it produces a spike-like structure with tiny white flowers that are small and star-shaped.
Uses
This plant has many uses both in and outdoors. As a houseplant, it can be grown in pots and on hanging baskets, completing any interior/exterior decoration while adding an exotic touch. Although its uses go beyond aesthetic value; it also has medicinal properties, with the plant juice of some species used in treating wounds, cuts, and skin diseases traditionally. Extracts from the Sansevieria intermedia have been found to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It is also an air purifying plant, removing harmful toxins in the air and improving indoor air quality, making it a perfect addition to any environment.
Its leaves produce strong fibers that can be used in making ropes and cords, and in the past, it was also used in making bowstrings hence the name Bowstring Hemp. In East Africa, the leaves are also used in making baskets and other woven goods.
Overall, this is a fascinating and versatile plant species that has found a place in many cultures and environments. It is easy to see why the Sansevieria intermedia has remained a popular houseplant and a natural miracle for many generations.
Light Requirements
The Sansevieria intermedia N.E.Br. plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight to grow properly. They tolerate low-light situations but may not thrive in them. Keep the plant out of direct sunlight, which can burn its leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Sansevieria intermedia N.E.Br. is between 60-80°F (15-27°C). Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can stunt growth and cause leaf damage, while temperatures above 85°F (29°C) can cause wilting and sunburn. Avoid placing the plant near drafts or heating vents.
Soil Requirements
Sansevieria intermedia N.E.Br. thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix of loam, sand, and peat moss is suitable for this plant. Keep the soil slightly moist but not waterlogged, as the plant is susceptible to root rot. A general-purpose potting mix is recommended for this plant.
Cultivation of Sansevieria intermedia N.E.Br.
Sansevieria intermedia N.E.Br. is an easy-to-grow plant. It can be grown both outdoors and indoors. If you want to grow it indoors, make sure that it is placed close to a window where it can get sufficient sunlight. The plant prefers a temperature range of 16°C to 32°C and can survive in harsh drought conditions.
Watering needs of Sansevieria intermedia N.E.Br.
The plant can tolerate dry periods, so it is essential not to overwater it. Watering once every two weeks is enough for the plant to thrive. Ensure that the soil is completely dry before watering, as the roots of the plant are susceptible to rot if overwatered.
Fertilization of Sansevieria intermedia N.E.Br.
Sansevieria intermedia N.E.Br. requires minimal fertilization as it prefers poor soil. Fertilize once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength. Avoid fertilizing during dormant periods (fall and winter).
Pruning of Sansevieria intermedia N.E.Br.
Pruning eliminates any dead or damaged leaves in the plant. As Sansevieria intermedia N.E.Br. is slow-growing, pruning is typically not necessary. However, if you want to keep the plant in a specific shape or size, you can cut the leaves using sharp, sterile scissors or pruners. Be sure to remove any dead or damaged portions of the leaves to keep the plant healthy.
Propagation of Sansevieria intermedia N.E.Br.
Sansevieria intermedia N.E.Br. can be propagated by division, leaf cuttings, and rhizome cuttings.
Division
The easiest way to propagate Sansevieria intermedia N.E.Br. is through division. Gently remove the plant from its container and use a clean, sharp knife to separate the rhizomes. Each division should have at least one healthy rhizome with roots. Plant the divisions in separate containers with well-draining soil and water thoroughly.
Leaf cuttings
Leaf cuttings are another way to propagate Sansevieria intermedia N.E.Br. Choose a healthy leaf and cut it into 3-4 inch sections with a clean, sharp knife. Allow the cuttings to dry for a day or two to prevent rotting. Plant the cuttings vertically in a well-draining soil mix with the cut end inserted into the soil. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in bright, indirect light. The cuttings should root and begin to grow within a few weeks.
Rhizome cuttings
Rhizome cuttings involve taking a section of the plant's underground stem, which already has buds, and planting it directly into soil. Gently remove the plant from its container and use a clean, sharp knife to cut a section of the rhizome with at least one healthy bud. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and water thoroughly. Place the pot in bright, indirect light and keep the soil moist. The cutting should root and begin to grow within a few weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Sansevieria intermedia N.E.Br.
Sansevieria intermedia N.E.Br. is generally a low maintenance plant that is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it is still vulnerable to a few common problems that can affect its health and appearance. Here are some potential issues and ways to manage them:
Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Sansevieria intermedia N.E.Br. is root rot. This is typically caused by overwatering, which leads to waterlogged soil and root suffocation. To manage this, make sure not to overwater the plant and use a well-draining soil mix. If the plant is showing signs of root rot, such as wilting, yellowing leaves, or foul-smelling soil, consider repotting it into fresh, dry soil.
Another potential disease is leaf spot, which is caused by bacteria or fungi. This typically appears as small, circular spots on the leaves that expand over time and turn brown or black. To manage this, remove infected leaves and discard them, making sure not to spread the disease to other plants. Additionally, avoid getting water on the leaves when watering to reduce the chances of fungal growth.
Pests
One of the most common pests that can affect Sansevieria intermedia N.E.Br. is spider mites. These small insects are difficult to see with the naked eye but can cause significant damage by sucking sap from the leaves and causing them to turn yellow or brown. To manage this, use a miticide spray or wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth to remove the mites.
Another potential pest is mealybugs, which appear as small, white, cottony masses on the plant. These insects also suck sap from the leaves, leading to yellowing and wilting. To manage this, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove the mealybugs from the plant.
Overall, Sansevieria intermedia N.E.Br. is a hardy plant that is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it's essential to keep an eye out for any potential issues and address them promptly to maintain the health and appearance of the plant.
