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COMMON NAME Mother-in-law’s tongue, bowstring hemp, devil’s tongue
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SCIENTIFIC NAME Sansevieria trifasciata
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FAMILY NAME Asparagaceae
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ORIGIN West Africa and Asia
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HEIGHT 40 inches maximum
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LIGHT Indirect light, artificial light, filter harsh light
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WATER Moderate
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FERTILIZER Weak liquid fertilizer.
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TEMPERATURE 40-85 degrees Fahrenheit
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SOIL/GROWING MEDIUM Well-drained
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HUMIDITY Average
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PROPAGATION Seeds, cuttings, division in water
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POISONOUS FORM Mildly toxic. Stay away from pets, babies
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PESTS Mealybugs, spider mites
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There are about 70 different species of Sansevieria, native to Africa, Madagascar, and southern Asia. For many years they have been a very important part to both Asian and African culture. In Africa, It is believed that the plant brings spiritual protection. In fact, it is used in rituals to remove the evil eye (a malevolent stare that casts a curse on its victims). This succulent has also been associated with African gods, such as the god of war, which is ironic considering that this plant is nick named the “bowstring hemp”.
In Asian culture, this plant brings good luck. It is believed that the gods will grant their caretakers the eight virtues, which include long life and prosperity. The snake plant holds great history and up to this day provides so much in our wonderful homes.
Sansevieria trifasciata is one of the most common snake plants and it is recognized mainly by its green-yellow leaves. However, there is such an immense variety of cultivars to choose from. They are distinguished based on the leaf color and shape.
Here are a few cultivars to choose from:
Fun FACT: It is very rare to find these plants blossoming, but this usually tends to happen when the plant is mildly stressed. Their white or cream-colored flowers resemble lilies. They have an amazing aroma but unfortunately attract pests with the scent.
5 reasons why you must have a snake plant in your home!
Written by: Yolanda M. Pineda
