How to Grow and Care for African Spear Plant

Plant Care

The African Spear Plant is famously low-maintenance. It tolerates neglect, thrives in various light conditions, and barely flinches at missed waterings. It likes indirect light indoors, but will tolerate dim rooms. Outdoors, it should be shaded from harsh direct sun to avoid sunburn.

To keep it happy, plant in a well-draining mix and don’t overwater. With a slow-growing, bushy form, it’s an excellent desk, shelf or floor plant, and it's pet-safe only if kept out of reach—its leaves can be mildly toxic if ingested.

Light

African Spear Plant is easy to grow in different lighting conditions. It wants bright, indirect light but will grow (slowly) in low-light corners too.  Avoid prolonged direct sun outdoors, which can scorch the leaves. If there is too little light for a very long time, you may notice the plant losing its upright form or becoming dull in color. Rotating the plant every few weeks helps it grow evenly.

Soil

When choosing a soil, select a sandy soil that drains well or a commercial cactus/succulent mix. It’s important to provide good drainage, since the roots will rot in too-wet soil. You can mix perlite or coarse sand into your soil for additional aeration. Try to avoid mixes with too much peat, which retains too much moisture over time.

Watering

African Spear Plant is a very drought-resistant plant. Allow the soil to dry out fully between waterings.  In summer, watering every 2–3 weeks is usually sufficient. In winter, watering even once a month is enough. Always check the soil before watering, and empty any saucers to prevent root rot. If the leaves are soft or wrinkled, it can signal underwatering—but it’s far more forgiving of neglect than excess.

Pruning

Although it is rarely necessary to prune African Spear Plant, it can help to retain its shape:

• Best time to prune: Anytime during active growth.
• What to prune: Spears that are damaged, turning yellow or that are overly long.
• Remove: Use sterilized scissors or pruning shears to snip at the base.
• Pro tip: Trimmed spears can be propagated — so don’t throw them!
• Bonus: Light grooming is a good way to keep the plant tidy and healthy.

Propagating

African Spear Plant is easy to propagate with a little patience:

• Leaf cuttings: Simply cut a healthy leaf and let it dry for 1-2 days.
• Place in water or soil: Cuttings root well in both — just don’t water too much.
• Be patient: It will take a few weeks for the roots to develop.
• Division: Divide baby plants from the base and replant in their own pots.

Growing in Pots

This plant is a container lover. 

Pick a pot with good drainage that will be quite heavy when it’s mature. 

Clay pots are great to minimize the accumulation of too much water. 

Place in a bright, indoor spot away from drafts or vents. 

Repotting is necessary every few years, when roots start to push  out of the container or growth slows significantly.

Overwintering

In USDA zones 10–12, African Spear Plant can grow outdoors year-round.Elsewhere, bring it inside before temperatures fall below 50°F (10°C). Indoors, reduce watering and avoid feeding during winter. Place it in an area with plenty of natural light. The plant may slow its growth but should remain green and firm throughout the season.

Blooming

Though rare, mature African Spear Plants can produce small, white or pale pink tubular flowers on tall spikes. Flowers commonly bloom in spring or early summer and are often fragrant. Flowering generally occurs when the plant is a bit root-bound  and thriving in its spot, but most owners never see a bloom—and that’s perfectly normal. The star of the show is the foliage.

Common Issues

African Spear Plant care is not demanding, but there are some problems that can occur:

• Root rot → It’s nearly always the result of overwatering; allow soil to dry completely.
• Wrinkled leaves → Underwatering; water it deeply.
• Faded color → Light might be too low; try a brighter location.
• Yellow leaves → Usually an indication of poor drainage or soggy roots.
• Mealybugs or spider mites → Uncommon, but you can treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Summary

The African Spear Plant is a reminder that even durability can be fashionable. The plants’ bold, upright shape and sharp green spears bring modern style to any room — in exchange for almost nothing.

Whether you’re new to houseplants or looking for a splash of color, this succulent is a great choice. It cleans the air, can take nearly any amount of light and thrives on a bit of neglect. For those who want a plant that’s beautiful and tough, look no further than the African Spear Plant.