The Starfish is named for its thick stalks that taper to a point and grow in a fan form that alternates out from the base. It is another compact Sansevieria option that is perfect for small spaces, and the novice plant parent.  

• Light – Bright, indirect light is ideal, but it can tolerate lower light conditions.
• Water – Does not like to be soggy. Water thoroughly once the top 2 inches of soil become dry.
• Difficulty – Beginners
• Pet Friendly – Mildly toxic if ingested

Grow pot plant sizes: small [4” ], medium [6”], large [8”], extra-large [10”] – All these are diameter measurements

Corresponding pot measurements: small [5-6” pot], medium [7-8” pot], large [9-11” pot], extra large [11-13” pot]

BOTANICAL NAME: Sansevieria cylindrica var. 'Patula Boncel’

COMMON NAME: Boncel Snake Plant, Spear Orchid, Skyline Spear, African Spear Plant

ORIGIN: Native to Africa

GOOD FOR: Beginner plant parents

HEIGHT: 4-6” tall and wide

LIGHT: Thrives in bright, indirect light, but can tolerate both lower light and direct sun.  Lower light placement will result in less coloration in the leaves.

WINDOW PREFERENCE: East window is ideal, though it will do well in front of any window where it receives bright, filtered, indirect light.

WATER: This plant is a succulent, so over watering can become a major issue. Wait until the top two inches of soil is dry and then water around the base of the plant until you see water draining from the bottom of the pot. At this point you can stop. Use room temperature water. SPRING/SUMMER – Water every 2-3 weeks. FALL/WINTER – Can tolerate slightly drier conditions, so water sparingly.

HUMIDITY: Basic household humidity.

TEMPERATURE: Prefers to be above 60 degrees. Keep away from drafts and heat vents.

SOIL / REPOTTING: We recommend using a succulent or cactus potting mix. While this plant doesn’t mind being slightly root bound, it will require repotting every few years, once you begin to see roots growing out of the pot.

PLANT FOOD: In spring and summer, feed once a month. We recommend using Joyful Dirt Succulent Food. Stop feeding in fall and winter due to slower growth and dormancy.

PRUNING: Sansevieria leaves scar easily. It is not recommended that you prune away leaves with brown tips for this reason. When leaves have gotten too large, cut carefully at the leaf base to avoid damage to surrounding leaves.

PESTS: Pests are rare in this plant, but they can develop vine weevils, which will eat the edges of your plant’s leaves.

TOXICITY: This plant is toxic. Keep away from children and pets!

ANGRY PLANT PROBLEMS: Mushy leaves/Brown leaf tips – Your plant is drowning. Cut back on the water. You may want to invest in a water meter to help gauge when it’s time to water. Wrinkled leaves – Your plant is thirsty. Water!