Sansevieria Masoniana is now known as Dracaena Masoniana. Commonly called Mason’s Congo or Whale Fin Sansevieria. Native to the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Hence the name Mason’s Congo. Additionally, Masoniana is nicknamed Whale Fin Snake Plant. Of course because of the unique shape of its unusually wide, paddle-like leaves. Although slow-growing, the Whale Fin Sansevieria reaches impressive size compared to other members of the genus.
Water
Occasional – Drought Tolerant. Only needs watering once or twice a month
Light
Bright indirect light to shade
Humidity
Prefers lower humidity in the air
Temp
Hardy in Zones 10-11. Performs best in temperatures between 59-74°F (15-23° C) but will survive short periods of temps at 50°F (10° C)
Soil
Prefers a well-draining soil
Fertilizer
Fertilize plants twice a month at 1/2 strength during the growing season.
Pronunciation
san-se-VEER-ee-uh mas-oh-nee-AH-uh
Common Name
Whale Fin Sansevieria, Mason’s Congo, Congo Snake Plant
Scientific Name
Dracaena Masoniana or Sansevieria Masoniana
Toxicity
Mildly toxic if eaten. Keep away from children and animals.
Snake plants are one of the easiest and most adaptable houseplants around. In fact, Sansevieria Masoniana (san-se-VEER-ee-uh mas-oh-nee-AH-uh) is one of over 70 different species falling under the heading snake plant.
Sansevieria Masoniana’s have long leaves beautifully mottled with patterns of dark and light green. The leaf margins are often a pinkish red. Stiff, waxy, leaves grow about 8 to 10 inches (20-25 cm) wide and are usually 3 to 4 feet (.91-1.22 M) in height. Although, some have been reported as growing up to 6 feet (1.8 M) tall. However, young nursery plants that are regularly divided often remain around 2 feet (61 cm). And not vertically inclined for several years before new taller leaves emerge.
Like all Snake Plants, Sansevieria Masoniana is known for its air-purifying abilities. Indeed, a great plant for beginners as it requires very little maintenance. Especially since it tolerates a wide range of environmental conditions as well as infrequent watering. Additionally, it makes an interesting tall ground cover in shady areas. Surprisingly, it can be a little hard to find and a bit pricey.
This low maintenance succulent only needs watering about once or twice a month. Water thoroughly from below or at the base of the plant. Specifically, only when the soil becomes dry. During the growing season, water regularly. However, be sure not to overwater. In fact, leaves will pucker slightly when the plant is in need of water. Significantly reduce watering from fall through winter.
If in doubt about watering, then wait. Specifically because it is a drought-tolerant plant. Less is more. Furthermore, if you really want to be sure, use an inexpensive moisture meter. It’s my fool proof way of watering. Also, do not allow water to stand on the leaves. Be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. Additionally, always plant in a pot with a drainage hole.
Whale Fin Sansevieria grows well in high humidity levels and dry conditions. However, keep it away from air vents or drafts. Indeed this can dry out your plant. Additionally, it will need very little water in the winter.
Sansevieria Masoniana is tolerant of a wide range of light conditions. Certainly, it prefers warm locations with plenty of bright, indirect light. However, it tolerates some shade. Additionally, protect it from the hot afternoon sun as it may sunburn. In fact, it tolerates low light and partial shade, making it a popular office plant. Furthermore, it is one of the top plants that grow in fluorescent lights.
Whale Fin Sansevieria is an indoor air purifier. Specifically removing toxins from indoor environments. This rhizomatous, succulent perennial, is best grown in well-draining soil. Although, they tolerate many soil conditions. I prefer a soil amended with gravel, perlite, pumice or coarse sand to allow good drainage. Additionally, a standard succulent or cactus mix combined with perlite is also an excellent choice for snake plants. In fact, it is not too picky about pH requirements and does well in soil ranging from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline.
Use a fertilizer diluted at half strength if needed. Sansevieria are low maintenance plants and do not require a lot of supplementary feeding. Additionally, this plant is sensitive to over fertilizing so only use sparingly.
The Sansevieria Masoniana naturally propagates from underground rhizomes. In fact, they run on top of or just beneath the surface of the soil. Propagation can be done by dividing the rootball. Separate and place each division in a new pot with a drainage hole.
See related Article: Propagating Snake Plants
Sansevieria Masoniana have thin, upright leaves that are succulent to leathery in texture. Oblanceolate in shape, reaching up to 3 to 4 feet (.91-1.22 M) tall and 8 to 10 inches (20-25 cm) wide. Mature plants will slowly form small, 2 foot (61 cm) wide colonies. Specifically by spreading underground rhizomes. In fact, each rhizome produces one or two leaves. Additionally, clumps tend to grow wider before producing larger foliage.
On occasion, if grown in bright light, Sansevieria Masoniana forms a stalk of flower clusters. Specifically coming from the center of the plant. The inflorescence is an upright stalk bearing one inch (2.54 cm) long, greenish-white flowers. Although, flowering is rare if grown as a houseplant.
Indeed, mildly toxic if eaten. Therefore, keep away from children and animals as pets. Not to mention all parts of the plant are toxic.
Keep Sansevieria Masoniana leaves shiny and glossy by dusting them with a soft damp cloth. I like to use a clean microfiber towel. Although, do not mist your snake plant because it can leave unsightly water spots on the leaves.
Many Snake Plant lovers allow their Sansevieria to become root bound. And, only transplanting them once every two to five years. This will not necessarily hurt the plant. However, once the plant outgrows its current pot, repotting your Whale Fin Sansevieria will allow it to continue to thrive and grow. Furthermore, add fresh soil every spring if not transplanting.
Shallow, clay pots are recommended because roots of Sansevieria Masoniana are not very deep. Additionally, larger leaves can make pots top-heavy and prone to tipping over. Furthermore, indoor plants may be taken to shady spots outdoors in summer.
There are over 70 varieties of snake plants. In fact, to learn more about different snake plant varieties such as Sansevieria Trifasciata ‘Laurentii’, Futura Robusta, Futura Superba, Sansevieria Trifasciata ‘Cylindrica’, and more, visit here.
Snake Plants rarely are affected by pests. However, it can happen. The major pests that affect the Snake plants are mealybugs, thrips, spider mites and aphids. Consequently, these pests feed off the plant by sucking sap from the leaves. Eventually, this causes wilting and eventual drying of the plant if you don’t control them.
See related Article: Mealybug and Pest Eradication
Related Articles:
Sansevieria Hahnii – Bird’s Nest Snake Plant
Silver Hahnii Sansevieria – Bird’s Nest Snake Plant
Sansevieria Black Star Hahnii – Bird’s Nest
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