The Sansevieria cylindrica ‘Boncel’, known as the Boncel Snake Plant or Starfish Snake Plant, is a unique succulent houseplant. Its distinctive appearance features short, stubby, cylindrical leaves that spread out in a fan-like or radial pattern, resembling a starfish. This compact size and sculptural form make it a favored choice for tabletops and small spaces. The ‘Boncel’ cultivar is resilient and easy to care for, suitable for both experienced plant enthusiasts and beginners.
Boncel Snake Plant Care
Boncel Snake Plants thrive in arid conditions. Consistent attention to specific care parameters, including proper light and watering, helps them grow and maintain vibrant colors.
The Boncel Snake Plant prefers bright, indirect light, like near a sunny window. It can tolerate lower light and some direct sun, but prolonged intense sun may scorch leaves or cause color loss. A well-lit room with filtered light is recommended for optimal growth and appearance.
Watering Boncel Snake Plants carefully prevents root rot, a common succulent issue. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, as soggy soil is detrimental. Reduce watering significantly in winter, often to once a month, when growth slows. Ensure excess water drains away, as these plants are drought-tolerant.
A well-draining soil mix prevents waterlogging and root decay. A succulent or cactus mix is ideal for quick drainage. Amending standard potting soil with perlite, coarse sand, or pumice creates a gritty, aerated texture. Terra cotta pots also help soil dry faster due to their porous nature.
Boncel Snake Plants prefer warm temperatures, ideally 70-90°F (21-32°C). They tolerate typical household humidity and do not require high humidity. Protect the plant from cold drafts and extreme temperature fluctuations, especially below 50°F (10°C), as this can cause damage.
Fertilizing Boncel Snake Plants is not frequent, as they are slow-growing. During the active growing season (spring and summer), apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every four to six weeks. Some established plants may not need fertilization. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter when the plant is dormant, as over-fertilization can cause mineral salt buildup.
Repotting Boncel Snake Plant
Boncel Snake Plants are slow growers and prefer to be somewhat root-bound, so they do not require frequent repotting. Repotting is typically needed every two to three years, or when the plant has visibly outgrown its container. The best time to repot is during springtime, coinciding with the plant’s active growth.
When repotting, select a pot only slightly larger than the current one, ensuring it has drainage holes. Carefully remove the plant, gently loosening soil around the roots. Trim any dead or broken roots. Place the plant in the new pot, add fresh, well-draining succulent or cactus mix around the root ball, and water thoroughly.
Propagating Boncel Snake Plant
Boncel Snake Plants can be propagated through division. When the plant produces offsets, or “pups,” separate them from the mother plant during repotting. Carefully detach the pup, ensuring it has roots, and plant it in its own well-draining soil mix. This method yields new plants quickly.
Leaf cuttings also propagate Boncel Snake Plants, though this process takes longer. Select a healthy leaf and cut it into 3-4 inch segments. Allow the cut ends to “callous” or dry for a few days before planting to prevent rot. Once calloused, insert cuttings into a well-draining soil mix, keeping the soil lightly moist until roots develop. New plantlets will eventually emerge from the base.
Common Issues and Solutions
Boncel Snake Plants are resilient but can encounter issues, often from improper watering. Yellowing or mushy leaves frequently signal overwatering and can lead to root rot. Reduce watering frequency and ensure the soil dries completely between waterings. If root rot is severe, repot the plant into fresh, dry soil after trimming decayed roots.
Brown leaf tips can indicate underwatering, low humidity, or excess fertilizer. While drought-tolerant, prolonged dryness causes stress. Adjust the watering schedule to allow adequate drying without severe drought. If over-fertilization is suspected, flush the soil with plain water.
Pests are not a frequent problem, but mealybugs, spider mites, and vine weevils can appear. Regular inspection helps early detection. For mealybugs, apply rubbing alcohol with a cotton swab. Manage spider mites by wiping leaves with a damp cloth or using insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. Addressing plant health issues can also deter pests.