Dracaena angolensis (Sansevieria cylindrica) 'Straight' – Sculptural Simplicity for Modern Spaces



Dracaena angolensis 'Straight', also known under the trade synonym Sansevieria cylindrica 'Straight', is a cultivar prized for its vertical, rod-like leaves and clean, modern form. Native to the dry savannas of Angola, this slow-growing, rhizomatous succulent stores water in its cylindrical foliage and adapts easily to life indoors. Whether used as a stand-alone accent or in minimalist groupings, 'Straight' delivers elegance with almost no upkeep.


Distinctive Features of Dracaena angolensis 'Straight'

  
Leaf Shape: Thick, cylindrical and upright, with pointed tips and subtle longitudinal grooves.
  
Coloring: Grey-green with fine horizontal bands; striking even from a distance.
  
Space-Saving Size: Grows vertically to around 50–60 cm indoors; perfect for small spaces.
  
Maintenance Level: Incredibly tolerant of neglect, inconsistent watering, and low light.


Natural Habitat and Botanical Details

Dracaena angolensis is native to Angola, where it grows in arid, rocky habitats. It was originally described as Sansevieria angolensis by Élie-Abel Carrière in 1875 and reclassified into the genus Dracaena in 2018 by Byng & Christenhusz. Most nursery plants labeled as Sansevieria cylindrica 'Straight' belong to this species or similar cylindrical-leaved hybrids. These plants share identical care needs and morphology.



Dracaena angolensis (Welw. ex Carrière) Byng & Christenh., published in Phytotaxa 336: 37 (2018).


Care Instructions for Dracaena angolensis 'Straight'

  
Light: Best in bright, indirect light but survives in lower light. Avoid intense, direct sunlight.
  
Watering: Only water when the soil is completely dry. Infrequent deep watering is better than frequent shallow watering.
  
Soil Type: Use a fast-draining mix with sand or perlite to prevent root rot.
  
Fertilizer: Apply diluted, balanced houseplant food like Pokon every 6–8 weeks when actively growing.
  
Temperature: Thrives between 15–29 °C. Keep away from cold windows or drafts below 10 °C.
  
Humidity: Prefers dry indoor air. No misting or added humidity required.
  
Potting: Repot only when roots outgrow the pot or soil becomes compacted. Use breathable pots with drainage holes.


Propagation and Semi-Hydro Use

  
Offsets: Produces basal pups. Separate once mature and allow callusing before replanting.
  
Rhizome Division: Can also be divided with a sterile blade; ideal for propagation during routine repotting.
  
Semi-Hydro Compatible: Adapts well to LECA and other passive hydro systems. Follow our LECA setup guide for success.


Is It Safe? – Toxicity Note

Like most Dracaena species, 'Straight' contains saponins, which are toxic to cats, dogs, and humans if ingested. Keep out of reach of pets and children.


Troubleshooting Common Issues

  
Root Rot: Almost always due to overwatering or compacted soil. Use airy mixes and never let roots sit in water.
  
Yellow Leaves: Often caused by excess moisture or insufficient drainage.
  
Brown Tips: May indicate prolonged drought, low humidity, or salt buildup.
  
Pests: Susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and thrips. Wipe leaves with microfiber gloves and treat with insecticidal soap or beneficial insects.


Good to Know – Additional Notes

  
Flowering: May bloom with slender, fragrant flowers under stress or long-term rootbinding, though this is rare indoors.
  
Leaf Resilience: Stores water in its thick leaves, allowing survival through long dry periods.
  
Historic Uses: In its native range, fibrous leaves were used for rope or weaving.


Origin of the Name

The genus name Dracaena comes from the Greek “drakaina,” meaning “female dragon,” referencing the red resin found in some species. The epithet angolensis simply refers to its origin in Angola. The name “Sansevieria cylindrica 'Straight'” remains common in horticulture but is no longer botanically valid.


Q&A – Commonly Asked About 'Straight'
→ Will it grow in a north-facing room?
Yes, but slower. Rotate periodically toward better light to maintain symmetry.


→ How often do I water?
Water only when the soil is bone dry. Typically every 2–3 weeks, less in cooler rooms.


→ Is it toxic to pets?
Yes. Dracaena species are toxic to cats and dogs. Best kept out of reach.


Add Dracaena angolensis 'Straight' to Your Collection

This bold, upright cultivar brings architectural interest and resilience to any space. Order now and enjoy modern greenery with minimal upkeep.