Sansevieria lavranosii ‘Blue Clone’ is a rare and highly collectable form of Sansevieria (snake plant), native to arid regions of East Africa. This clone is prized for its distinctive blue-grey foliage, which gives it a unique, metallic look compared to the more common green cultivars.

The plant forms tight rosettes of thick, cylindrical to slightly flattened leaves, with a smooth, glaucous surface and faint darker banding. The subtle bluish tones are most prominent when grown in strong, bright light. Over time, the rosettes produce offsets, forming attractive clumps with a striking architectural quality.

Compact and sculptural, this plant typically reaches 20–30 cm tall, making it ideal for display on shelves, desks, or as part of a succulent collection. Its slow growth and unusual colouration make it a prized specimen for collectors of rare Sansevierias.

Sansevieria lavranosii ‘Blue Clone’ – Care Guide

Light

Thrives in bright, indirect light, where its blue-grey colouring is most vibrant. Tolerates medium light and even low-light conditions but may lose some of its bluish tones. Avoid strong direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.

Watering

Extremely drought tolerant. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. In summer, water every 2–3 weeks; in winter, once a month or less. Overwatering is the most common cause of problems.

Temperature and Humidity

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

• Humidity: Tolerant of dry air – thrives in centrally heated homes.

Soil and Potting

Plant in a gritty, free-draining cactus or succulent compost. Shallow pots suit its rosette growth. Repot every 2–3 years in spring, or when clumps outgrow the pot.

Feeding

Feed once a month in spring and summer with a diluted cactus or succulent fertiliser. No feeding is required in autumn and winter.

Pruning and Maintenance

Minimal pruning is needed – simply remove old or damaged leaves at the base. Wipe leaves gently to maintain their blue sheen.

Growth and Maturity

A slow-growing cultivar, usually reaching 20–30 cm tall. Produces offsets over time to form decorative clusters. Mature plants may occasionally produce slender flower spikes with clusters of fragrant, white-green blossoms.

Common Issues

• Mushy/yellow leaves: Overwatering.

• Wrinkled foliage: Underwatering – water deeply, then allow soil to dry again.

• Pests: Rare, but mealybugs or spider mites may appear in very dry homes.

Background and Benefits

Sansevieria lavranosii is named after John Lavranos, a renowned plant collector and botanist. The ‘Blue Clone’ selection is especially sought after for its unusual, glaucous-blue tones, setting it apart from the greener standard species. Like all snake plants, it is also valued for its air-purifying properties, filtering toxins from indoor air and producing oxygen even at night.

✅ Quick Care Summary

• Light: Bright, indirect preferred; tolerates medium–low

• Water: Sparingly; allow soil to dry fully

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

• Humidity: Thrives in dry air

• Soil: Gritty, free-draining succulent mix

• Feed: Monthly in spring/summer

• Growth: Compact rosette, 20–30 cm; thick blue-grey cylindrical leaves with faint banding