The walking snake plant, scientifically known as Sansevieria ehrenbergii and often referred to as Sansevieria pinguicula or Dracaena ehrenbergii, is a visually striking houseplant. Its distinctive appearance and relatively straightforward care make it a popular choice for those seeking an intriguing addition to their plant collection.
What Makes It a Walking Snake Plant?
The “walking” name comes from its unique growth habit. Unlike other Sansevieria species, it produces thick, stilt-like aerial stolons from the soil. New plantlets develop at the tips of these stolons, growing roots downwards. This creates the appearance of plantlets “walking” away from the parent plant, often extending beyond the edge of the pot. The stilt-like roots also hold the plant’s rosette slightly above the soil surface, enhancing its unusual appearance.
Walking Snake Plant Care
Light Requirements
Walking snake plants thrive in bright, indirect light, which promotes strong growth and leaf coloration. They can tolerate lower light, but growth may slow, and leaves might become longer and thinner. Place the plant near a window with filtered sunlight. Avoid direct, intense sunlight, as it can scorch leaves or fade their margins.
Watering Needs
These succulents are drought-tolerant, storing water in their thick leaves and roots. Overwatering is a common issue, leading to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, often checking the moisture level by inserting a finger several inches into the soil. Reduce watering frequency during cooler winter months when growth slows.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining soil mix is crucial to prevent waterlogging and promote healthy root development. A cactus or succulent potting mix is suitable, or a custom blend can be created using components like peat, perlite, gravel, or coconut coir to enhance drainage. Pots must have drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. Terracotta pots are recommended as their porous nature aids aeration and faster soil drying.
Temperature and Humidity
Originating from arid regions, the walking snake plant prefers warmer temperatures, ideally between 15°C to 35°C (60°F to 95°F). It tolerates average household humidity and does not require high humidity. Protect the plant from cold drafts and temperatures below 10°C (50°F), as prolonged exposure to cold can cause damage.
Fertilization
Walking snake plants have low fertilization needs and grow well with minimal feeding. During the active growing season (spring and summer), apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength once or twice. Over-fertilizing can harm the plant. Fertilization is not necessary during the dormant winter period.
Propagating Walking Snake Plants
Propagating the walking snake plant primarily uses its unique growth habit. Division, especially separating plantlets from aerial stolons, is effective. Once a plantlet develops its own stilt-like roots, typically around 3 cm (1.2 inches) long, it can be cut away from the parent plant. Plant the separated plantlet into its own pot with slightly moist, porous soil. Leaf cuttings are an option, but this method is slower for this species.
Common Problems and Solutions
The walking snake plant is generally hardy, but some issues can arise, often related to improper care. Overwatering is the most frequent problem, causing soft, mushy leaves and root rot. To fix this, reduce watering frequency and ensure the soil dries completely between applications. Shriveled or wrinkled leaves indicate underwatering, requiring thorough watering. Lack of new growth may stem from insufficient light; move the plant to a brighter, indirect light location.