Whale Fin Snake Plant (Sansevieria Masoniana)

Sansevieria Masoniana, commonly known as the Whale Fin Snake Plant, is a unique and exotic addition to any indoor plant collection. With its strikingly large leaves, this plant is a showstopper. Although it's not as commonly found as other Sansevieria varieties, its care and propagation are relatively straightforward. Let's dive into the world of this fascinating plant and explore how to keep it thriving.

How I Got My Whale Fin Snake Plant

Being an active member of the houseplant community on Instagram has its perks. One of them is the ability to exchange plants with fellow enthusiasts. A friend from Florida sent me a Sansevieria Masoniana, and it arrived in Ohio in excellent condition. After potting it in a terra cotta container and giving it a good soak, I placed it in an optimal location for growth.

Light Requirements for Sansevieria Masoniana

Contrary to popular belief, Sansevieria Masoniana doesn't thrive in low light conditions; it merely tolerates them. For optimal growth, place your plant near a window with Eastern or Western exposure. Even North-facing windows can work if they are large and unobstructed. South-facing windows are also suitable, but you may need to filter the light if you live in an area with intense sunlight.

Watering Your Whale Fin Snake Plant

Watering is crucial for any plant, and the Whale Fin Snake Plant is no exception. Always water thoroughly until you see excess water drain out of the pot. Make sure to empty the saucer to prevent root rot. Allow the soil to dry out almost completely before the next watering. These plants are drought-tolerant but prefer a consistent watering schedule for optimal growth.

Soil Mix and Potting Options

Sansevieria Masoniana thrives in well-draining soil. A mix of two parts succulent/cactus potting mix and one part pumice is ideal. Brands like Hoffman and Miracle-Gro offer suitable mixes that are easily available online. Terra cotta pots are recommended for their quick-drying properties and aesthetic appeal.

Fertilizing Your Plant

During the growing season, use a low-nitrogen fertilizer like Schultz 2-7-7 Cactus Plus. However, remember that fertilization is not a substitute for proper care. Always prioritize proper lighting and watering conditions.

Propagation Methods

Sansevieria Masoniana is a slow grower, so patience is key when propagating. You can propagate through division, water propagation, or soil propagation. Division is the quickest method and involves separating the plant at the roots. Water propagation involves cutting a leaf and placing it in water until roots form. Soil propagation is similar but involves planting the leaf cutting directly into soil.

Sansevieria Toxicity

Be cautious if you have pets; Sansevieria Masoniana is toxic to cats and dogs due to its saponin content, according to the ASPCA.

Troubleshooting: Why Is My Whale Fin Plant Curling?

If your plant's leaves are curling, it's likely due to soil moisture issues. If the soil has become too dry, you may need to water the plant thoroughly or even resort to bottom watering to rehydrate the soil.

Where to Buy Your Whale Fin Snake Plant

Buy it here at Plant Vault. We'll ship your perfect plant directly to your door!