The Whale fin plant is a snake plant variety. It is a succulent that is native to the tropical regions of Congo and Central Africa. Sansevieria whale fin plants belong to the Agavaceae family. They are grown as ornamental plants.
Unlike the snake plant, the whale fin plant grows as a single leaf. This leaf is dark green and has a leathery feel to it. It is riddled with a dark silver to green variegation that has a zig-zag pattern.
They can be toxic to both people and pets. So do be careful when growing them at homes with kids or pets around.
| Botanical Name | Sansevieria masoniana |
| Common Names | Whale fin plant, Whale fin snake plant, whale tail plant |
| Origin | Congo, Central Africa |
| Family | Agavaceae |
| Plant Type | Perennial succulent plant |
| Full Size | Ranges from 2 feet to 4 feet tall |
| Sun Exposure | Bright, filtered sunlight |
| Soil Type | Light, well-draining succulent soil mix |
| Toxicity | Can be toxic to both pets and people when ingested. |
Whale Fin Sansevieria Care
This snake plant variety would require some attention. They do have a few similarities with the snake plant but their lighting needs might be demanding. Having a detailed understanding of their basic needs would be helpful.
Whale Fin Sansevieria Lighting Requirements
The variegated whale fin does well in bright filtered light. They can tolerate a bit of both direct sun and full shade but not excess of both. With excess exposure to direct sunlight. The foliage might suffer from being scorched.
However, too little sunlight does limit growth and its variegation. You can give them the best of both by providing access to both light intensities. Grow them in a room with an east-facing window.
There, they can receive the sunlight that comes with the morning sun. And at noon, they get less intense but bright sunlight. To further help, you can make use of a light curtain or cloth. This would help filter the harsh rays of the afternoon sun.
Another option would be to move the plant a few inches from the window. This is helpful when you can’t get a curtain.
Whale Fin Sansevieria Watering Requirements
Watering should be done once every month. They are drought tolerant, so they can survive long hours without water. But they do need water in hot regions with high temperatures.
Avoid overwatering them as you risk them suffering root rot. Their roots hate soggy soil, which can lead to the build up of harmful fungi. Before watering, check the moisture level of the soil to be sure it is almost dry.
You can make use of a moisture meter for this. If you don’t have this, try feeling the soil with your finger. If it feels dry then proceed to watering. Some cases might need you to lift the pot up. If it does feel heavy, then it contains excess moisture and should not be watered.
Always use clean tepid rainwater. Tap water has chlorine so avoid using it unless you filter it with a filtration system.
Whale Fin Sansevieria Soil Requirements
A proper soil type would be regular succulent soil. It should be well-draining but have moisture-retaining abilities. It should also be light with enough aeration. They do not require soil with organic compost. It can promote the growth of fungi.
For your soil mix. Add one part potting soil to one part perlite. Add one part of peat moss or coconut coir. The soil pH should be kept between acidic and neutral. A value between 6.3 and 7.0 is perfect.
Whale Fin Sansevieria Temperature and Humidity Requirements
The whale tail sansevieria is a sturdy plant. It can survive most temperature and humidity requirements they are placed in. Temperature levels should be kept between 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Keep them away from very cold areas though. And provide adequate protection from frost that is brought by the winter.
Humidity levels can be kept at moderate levels. They can grow in most humidity levels so you shouldn’t worry about this.
Whale Fin Sansevieria Fertilizer Requirements
Do not fertilize the Whale fin sansevieria. Doing this causes more harm than good. They can grow without the need for fertilizer.
Whale Fin Sansevieria Propagation
The whale’s tail plant can be propagated through two methods. These are;
- Propagation through leaf cuttings
- Propagation through rhizome cuttings.
Both methods of propagating the sansevieria are effective. But propagating through leaf cuttings is faster. Wear protective gloves before doing this. And always sterilize all cutting tools before use.
Common Health Problems of The Whale Fin Plant
- Root rot
- Spider mites
- Mealybugs
Frequently Asked Questions
This is because they grow at a slow rate. This is why they are expensive.
Most problems suffered by snake plants come from overwatering.
Yes, they are rare plants. This is part of the reason why they are expensive.
They do have a slow growth rate. It can take 2 to 3 years before repotting them.
The whale fin plant is the rarest sansevieria variety.
