Sansevieria kirkii ‘Coppertone’, often called the Coppertone Snake Plant, is a succulent known for its distinct aesthetic. Its easy care makes it a popular choice for indoor plant enthusiasts.
Identifying Sansevieria kirkii Coppertone
Sansevieria kirkii ‘Coppertone’ has distinct visual characteristics. Its leaves display striking coppery-brown to reddish-brown hues, which become more pronounced in brighter light. These thick, succulent leaves often feature a rough or textured surface. Unlike many upright Sansevieria varieties, ‘Coppertone’ forms a compact, low-growing rosette, with leaves reaching up to 2-3 feet in length. The leaves also have wavy margins and distinct banding or mottling in shades of green, black, sand, and copper, with a thin border appearing in rose gold or cream.
Sansevieria kirkii Coppertone Care
Light
Sansevieria kirkii ‘Coppertone’ thrives in bright, indirect light, which intensifies its coppery coloration. While it tolerates lower light, prolonged dim settings can result in less vibrant leaf colors and slower growth. Placing the plant near a south-facing window or slightly away from a west-facing window is ideal.
Watering
Infrequent watering is important for Sansevieria kirkii ‘Coppertone’ to prevent root rot. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, which often takes two to six weeks depending on conditions. When watering, saturate the soil thoroughly until water drains from the bottom of the pot, and do not let the plant sit in standing water. Water less frequently during cooler winter months when growth slows.
Soil
A well-draining soil mix is important for Sansevieria kirkii ‘Coppertone’. A specialized succulent or cactus blend is ideal for aeration and drainage. Incorporating additional perlite, pumice, or coarse sand into a standard potting mix can further enhance drainage. This chunky, gritty soil allows excess moisture to escape efficiently.
Temperature and Humidity
Sansevieria kirkii ‘Coppertone’ adapts well to average room temperatures, ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (16-24 degrees Celsius). It tolerates some temperature fluctuations but needs protection from extreme cold or freezing conditions, which can damage its leaves. This plant has low humidity requirements and thrives in average household humidity without misting.
Fertilizing
Sansevieria kirkii ‘Coppertone’ does not require frequent fertilization. During the active growing season in spring and summer, apply a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer once a month. Avoid fertilizing during winter months when the plant is dormant to prevent nutrient buildup and potential root burn.
Repotting Sansevieria kirkii Coppertone
Sansevieria kirkii ‘Coppertone’ prefers to be somewhat root-bound. Repotting is necessary every two to five years, or when the plant outgrows its container, such as roots emerging from drainage holes. The best time to repot is during spring or early summer. Select a pot only slightly larger than the previous one, ensuring it has adequate drainage holes. Remove the plant from its old pot, loosen any compacted roots, and replant it using a fresh, well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix.
Propagating Sansevieria kirkii Coppertone
Propagating Sansevieria kirkii ‘Coppertone’ is most reliably achieved through division, which helps maintain its distinctive ‘Coppertone’ coloration by separating offsets or rhizomes that form around the base of the mother plant. To divide, remove the plant from its pot and identify individual rosettes with their own root systems. Using a clean, sharp knife, separate these offsets from the main plant, ensuring each new section has roots attached. Allow the cut surfaces to callus before planting the divisions in a well-draining succulent mix. While leaf cuttings can be used, they can result in new plants reverting to the greener form of the species rather than retaining the ‘Coppertone’ characteristics.
Common Issues with Sansevieria kirkii Coppertone
The most prevalent issue affecting Sansevieria kirkii ‘Coppertone’ is overwatering, leading to root rot. Symptoms include mushy, yellowing leaves and a soft base. To address this, reduce watering frequency and ensure the soil dries out completely between waterings. Stunted growth can indicate insufficient light or underwatering. Pests such as mealybugs or spider mites can affect the plant. These can be wiped away with an alcohol swab or a damp cloth. Leaf discoloration, particularly a fading of the coppery tones, suggests inadequate light exposure.