Dracaena pethera 'Coppertone' – Rare Copper-Tinted Snake Plant


Dracaena pethera var. pulchra 'Coppertone' (syn. Sansevieria kirkii var. pulchra 'Coppertone') is a beautifully colored cultivar of Dracaena pethera. It forms rosettes of long, strap-like leaves with undulating margins and sharply pointed tips. Each leaf is patterned with dark green spots and lines, overlaid with a distinctive coppery sheen when grown in bright light. Pinkish tints may appear along the surface, giving the plant a unique metallic glow that sets it apart from other snake plants.
 
● What Makes 'Coppertone' Special


Leaf Color: Dark green mottling combined with bronze, copper, and pinkish tones in good light.
Growth Habit: Rosette-forming with broad, strap-like leaves up to 60 cm long.
Texture: Wavy leaf margins and pointed tips add character to its bold form.
Collector Appeal: Far rarer than standard snake plants, prized for its unusual coloration.
 
● Background and Taxonomy


This cultivar belongs to Dracaena pethera, a species once placed in the genus Sansevieria. Following molecular studies, Sansevieria has been merged into Dracaena. The name 'Coppertone' refers to its striking coppery coloration, especially pronounced under strong light conditions. Its unique coloring makes it a standout even among the many ornamental cultivars of the group.
 
● How to Grow Dracaena 'Coppertone'


Light: Best color develops in bright, indirect light; tolerates some direct sun.
Watering: Very drought-tolerant; water sparingly and let the soil dry thoroughly before watering again.
Soil: Use a mineral-rich, fast-draining succulent mix.
Temperature: Prefers warmth; keep above 12 °C.
Fertilizer: Feed lightly during the growing season with diluted cactus or succulent fertilizer.
Containers: Suited to wide pots that allow the rosettes to spread over time.
 
● Things to Keep in Mind


Color Intensity: Copper and pink hues are strongest in high light, less pronounced in shade.
Overwatering Risk: Roots rot easily if left in soggy soil.
Growth Rate: Slow-growing; develops character with age and light stress.
Toxicity: Like other Dracaena, toxic to pets if ingested.
 
● Why Grow Dracaena 'Coppertone'


This cultivar combines the toughness of snake plants with extraordinary coloration. Its metallic copper and pink overtones make Dracaena 'Coppertone' a living statement piece for design-focused interiors and serious collections alike. Hardy yet exotic-looking, it brings a rare twist to an already beloved plant group.
 
● Etymology


The genus name Dracaena comes from the Ancient Greek δράκαινα (drakaina), meaning “female dragon,” a reference to the red resin (“dragon’s blood”) produced by some species.
 
● Frequently Asked Questions


Is Dracaena 'Coppertone' the same as Sansevieria 'Coppertone'? Yes, it was formerly placed in Sansevieria but is now part of Dracaena.
How large does it get? Leaves can reach 60 cm long in rosettes up to 40 – 50 cm wide.
Does it need direct sun? Not required, but strong light brings out the copper and pink tones.
Is it easy to grow? Yes, as hardy as standard snake plants, but slower and more compact.
 
● Add Dracaena 'Coppertone' to Your Collection


For a snake plant unlike any other, Dracaena pethera 'Coppertone' delivers metallic tones and rosette structure in a truly collectible package. Order today and enjoy a bold, copper-tinged highlight for your home or greenhouse.