Sansevieria boncellensis ‘Hedgehog’ is a unique and highly decorative cultivar of the Sansevieria group (now botanically reclassified under Dracaena). Native to Africa, Sansevierias are renowned for their resilience and architectural shapes, and this form is particularly admired for its compact, hedgehog-like appearance.

Unlike the upright sword-like leaves of common Sansevierias such as Laurentii, the ‘Hedgehog’ variety features short, cylindrical leaves that fan out in a rosette. The leaves are grey-green with darker striping and may develop subtle variegation under bright light. Their stubby, radiating form resembles the spines of a hedgehog, giving the plant both its name and its quirky charm.

This cultivar stays much smaller than many snake plants, making it an ideal choice for desks, windowsills, and shelves. In maturity, the rosettes can produce offsets, forming attractive clumps.

Sansevieria boncellensis ‘Hedgehog’ – Care Guide

Light

Extremely adaptable. Thrives in bright, indirect light but tolerates medium and even low-light conditions. Avoid harsh direct sun, which may scorch the leaves, although gentle morning light is beneficial.

Watering

Very drought-tolerant. Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. In summer, watering every 2–3 weeks may be sufficient; in winter, reduce to once a month or less. Overwatering is the main risk.

Temperature and Humidity

• Temperature: Prefers 18–28°C. Avoid exposure below 10°C.

• Humidity: Tolerates dry air perfectly and thrives in centrally heated rooms.

Soil and Potting

Use a gritty, free-draining cactus or succulent compost. Ensure pots have drainage holes. Repot only every 2–3 years when clumps become overcrowded.

Feeding

Apply a diluted cactus or succulent fertiliser once a month during spring and summer. Do not feed in autumn and winter.

Pruning and Maintenance

Minimal care is needed – simply remove any damaged or old leaves at the base. Clumps can be divided during repotting to propagate new plants.

Growth and Maturity

A slow-growing, compact variety that remains around 15–20 cm tall. Produces offsets over time, creating attractive clusters of rosettes. Mature plants may occasionally produce fragrant, white-green flowers.

Common Issues

• Yellow/mushy leaves: Caused by overwatering.

• Wrinkling: A sign of underwatering – though easily remedied with a deep soak.

• Pests: Rare, but can attract mealybugs or spider mites.

Background and Benefits

Sansevierias are among the toughest of all houseplants, with NASA research highlighting their ability to filter toxins from indoor air. The ‘Hedgehog’ cultivar combines these benefits with a compact, unusual form, making it both practical and decorative for small spaces.

✅ Quick Care Summary

• Light: Bright, indirect to low light

• Water: Sparingly; allow soil to dry fully

• Temperature: 18–28°C; avoid below 10°C

• Humidity: Dry air tolerant

• Soil: Free-draining succulent compost

• Feed: Monthly in spring/summer

• Growth: Compact rosette, 15–20 cm; cylindrical grey-green leaves with darker striping