Dracaena angolensis (Sansevieria cylindrica) 'Spaghetti'

Dracaena angolensis 'Spaghetti' – Cylindrical Snake Plant with Slender Rod-Like Leaves

Dracaena angolensis 'Spaghetti' (formerly known as Sansevieria cylindrica) is a cultivar of Dracaena angolensis (Welw. ex Carrière) Byng and Christenh. This rhizomatous succulent is recognized for its upright, cylindrical leaves that emerge in a fan-like pattern from the base. The cultivar 'Spaghetti' is particularly noted for its thinner, more delicate leaves compared to the standard species. Each leaf is stiff, tapering to a sharp point, with a ribbed texture and grey-green coloration banded by subtle darker stripes.

What Makes Dracaena 'Spaghetti' Distinct

• Leaf Form: Slim, rod-like cylindrical leaves tapering to sharp points.
• Growth Habit: Fan-shaped arrangement emerging from creeping rhizomes.
• Coloration: Greyish-green with darker bands forming striped patterns.
• Collector Value: Rarer than standard cylindrical snake plants due to its slender-leaved form.

Origin and Background

Dracaena angolensis is native to Angola and surrounding regions in Africa, where it grows in dry, rocky habitats. Long cultivated under the name Sansevieria cylindrica, it has since been reclassified into Dracaena. The 'Spaghetti' cultivar arose in horticulture, selected for its especially thin cylindrical leaves that give it a distinctive, elegant silhouette compared to the thicker-leaved forms.

How to Grow Dracaena 'Spaghetti'

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but tolerates partial sun and lower light indoors.
• Watering: Extremely drought-tolerant; water sparingly, letting soil dry completely before rewatering.
• Soil: Needs a very well-draining mineral-rich substrate, such as a cactus or succulent mix.
• Temperature: Warm-growing; best between 18 – 27 °C, protect from frost.
• Fertilizer: Feed lightly during active growth with a diluted succulent fertilizer.
• Containers: Thrives in small to medium pots; rhizomes may eventually spread sideways.

Considerations in Cultivation

• Overwatering: The main cause of decline; roots rot easily if soil remains wet.
• Slow Growth: Adds leaves gradually; patience is key.
• Pest Sensitivity: Occasionally susceptible to mealybugs or spider mites in dry, stressed conditions.
• Toxicity: Like other Dracaena, toxic to pets if ingested.

Why Collectors Value Dracaena 'Spaghetti'

Dracaena 'Spaghetti' offers a refined variation of the cylindrical snake plant, with thinner, more delicate leaves that create a lighter and more graceful profile. Its unusual form, architectural silhouette, and low maintenance requirements make it both a design element and a hardy succulent for collectors and beginners alike.

Etymology

The genus name Dracaena is derived from the Ancient Greek δράκαινα (drakaina), meaning “female dragon,” in reference to the red resin (“dragon’s blood”) produced by some species. The epithet angolensis refers to Angola, the region where the species was first described.

Add Dracaena 'Spaghetti' to Your Collection

If you’re looking for a rare, sculptural succulent with an elegant twist on the classic cylindrical snake plant, Dracaena angolensis 'Spaghetti' is an excellent choice. Order today and add this distinctive cultivar to your plant collection.