Whalefine in 8″ Pot

A striking, slow-growing semi-succulent in the Asparagaceae family, native to the Democratic Republic of Congo. It’s usually grown as a single huge, upright paddle-shaped leaf that looks like a whale’s fin—thick, stiff, and waxy, 60–120 cm (2–4 ft) tall and 15–25 cm (6–10 in) wide. Color is deep green mottled with lighter green spots; a purple-banded sheath sits just below the soil line. Over time rhizomes can produce additional leaves/pups, forming a clump 0.9–1.5 m (3–5 ft) tall and 0.3–0.6 m (1–2 ft) wide. Rarely, mature plants send up a spike of fragrant white flowers.

Quick care: thrives in bright, indirect light (tolerates medium to low light; avoid harsh direct sun that can scorch). Water sparingly—let the soil dry out completely, then water thoroughly; typically every 2–3 weeks in warm months, less in winter. Use a gritty, fast-draining succulent/cactus mix (2 parts mix + 1 part perlite/pumice) in a pot with drainage. Temps 18–27 °C (65–80 °F); average household humidity is fine (no misting). Feed lightly 1–2 times in spring–summer with diluted fertilizer (optional). Repot only when root-bound (every 2–3 years). Propagate by dividing rhizomes/pups (leaf cuttings work but are slow). Toxic if ingested—keep away from pets/kids.