Sansevieria: The Versatile Houseplant
Sansevieria, commonly called Snake Plant or Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, is a genus of blooming plants native to tropical regions of Africa. With its sturdy structure and low maintenance requirements, it has actually become a popular houseplant all over the world.
Here are some of the reasons why Sansevieria is a terrific houseplant:
Easy to take care of: Sansevieria is an exceptionally low-maintenance plant that can survive in a variety of environments. It requires really little watering and can even survive for long periods of time without water. In addition, it can endure low light levels and can be placed in areas where other plants may have a hard time growing.
Air Purifying: Sansevieria is known for its capability to eliminate toxic substances from the air, making it an excellent plant to have in your home. NASA research has shown that snake plants can efficiently eliminate typical contaminants such as benzene, nitrogen, and formaldehyde oxides from the air.
Wide variety of ranges: Sansevieria is a genus of over 70 types, each with its own special form and foliage patterns. Whether you prefer high, upright varieties or much shorter, compact types, there is a Sansevieria plant to match everyone’s tastes.
Long-lasting: Sansevieria plants can live for decades, making them a long-lasting addition to your home. With correct care, they can even outlive their owners!
In conclusion, Sansevieria is an appealing and versatile houseplant that is simple to care for and offers a range of advantages. Whether you’re a skilled gardener or a beginner, Sansevieria is an excellent choice for a low-maintenance and attractive addition to your house.
In this Sansevieria pictorial guide, we cover the following popular Sansevieria types:
- Sansevieria: The Versatile Houseplant
- Sansevieria Angolensis
- Sansevieria Trifasciata
- Sansevieria Cylindrica
- Sansevieria Patens
- Sansevieria Gracilis
- Sansevieria Suffruticosa
- Sansevieria Masoniana
- Sansevieria Kirkii
- Sansevieria Metallica
- Sansevieria Ballyi
- Sansevieria Concinna
- Sansevieria Aethiopica
- Sansevieria Boncellensis
- Sansevieria Braunii
- Sansevieria Pinguicula
- Sansevieria Trifasciata Laurentii
- Sansevieria Pearsonii
- Sansevieria Dawei
- Sansevieria Roxburghiana
- Sansevieria Pfisteri
- Sansevieria Cincta
- Sansevieria Robusta
- Sansevieria Francisii
- Sansevieria Aubrytiana
- Sansevieria Ehrenbergii
- Sansevieria Golden Hahnii
- Sansevieria Liberica
- Sansevieria Raffillii
- Sansevieria Elliptica
- Sansevieria Sayuri
- How To Grow And Care For Sansevieria
- How To Propagate Sansevieria Succulent
- Top 5 FAQ And Answers For Sansevieria
- Top 10 Interesting Facts About Sansevieria
Sansevieria Angolensis
Sansevieria Angolensis is a species of flowering plant native to Angola in southern Africa. It is commonly known as the Angola snake plant and is part of the Asparagaceae family. This species is a succulent and can grow up to 3 feet tall, with thick, fleshy leaves that have a distinctive dark green color and diamond-like pattern.
Sansevieria Angolensis is an extremely low-maintenance plant that can survive in a variety of lighting conditions, making it a popular choice for indoor gardens. It is also known for its ability to purify the air and improve air quality in homes and offices.
Sansevieria Trifasciata
Sansevieria Trifasciata also known as snake plant or mother-in-law’s tongue. It is native to tropical West Africa but has become a popular houseplant due to its ability to thrive in low-light conditions and its air-purifying properties.
The plant is known for its tall, stiff, sword-like leaves that are often variegated with green and yellow stripes. It is a slow-growing, drought-tolerant species that is relatively easy to care for, making it an ideal choice for novice gardeners.
Sansevieria Cylindrica
Sansevieria Cylindrica, also known as the round snake plant, is a type of succulent plant belonging to Africa. It is a slow-growing plant that is commonly utilized for decorative purposes due to its special round leaves.
The plant is known for its tolerance to a vast array of ecological conditions, making it an easy-to-care-for houseplant. Additionally, it has actually been proven to purify the air and improve indoor air quality, making it a great option for those who want to develop a healthy indoor environment.
Sansevieria Patens
Sansevieria Patens, also known as “Dwarf Sansevieria,” is a species of flowering plant in the Asparagaceae family. It is native to the tropical regions of West Africa and is known for its unique, curling leaves that grow upward. It has a low growth habit and is often used as an indoor plant due to its ability to thrive in low light and its tolerance for neglect.
Its leaves are a deep green color with light green cross-banding and grow up to 10 cm tall. Sansevieria patens is a popular choice for air purification and is considered a low-maintenance plant for both homes and offices.
Sansevieria Gracilis
Sansevieria Gracilis, typically referred to as the Slender Snake Plant, is a species of succulent plant native to West Africa. It is a slow-growing plant with long, slim green leaves that are greatly banded in silver.
This type is treasured for its ability to endure low light and neglect, making it an ideal choice for amateur garden enthusiasts or those who have a hard time keeping plants alive. Sansevieria gracilis is also known for its air-purifying properties, making it an excellent addition to any office or home.
Sansevieria Suffruticosa
Sansevieria Suffruticosa, commonly known as the dwarf mother-in-law’s tongue, is a succulent plant type native to Africa. It is known for its rosette of stiff, upright leaves that are usually green with horizontal yellow bands.
This species is a perfect choice for low-light conditions, making it a popular houseplant for those who have problems maintaining brighter rooms. It also has the credibility of being low-maintenance, with just occasional watering and very little pruning needed. Sansevieria Suffruticosa is not only visually pleasing but also air-purifying, making it a terrific addition to any indoor environment.
Sansevieria Masoniana
Sansevieria Masoniana, also known as the Whale Fin Snake Plant, is a succulent type belonging to Africa. It is known for its large, upright leaves that have a dark green color and a glossy texture.
The plant matures to 4-6 feet high and is treasured for its low upkeep and capability to cleanse the air. Sansevieria masoniana is a great choice for those who want to bring a touch of the outdoors into their home and is likewise a great present for plant enthusiasts.
Sansevieria Kirkii
Sansevieria Kirkii is a species of succulent plant commonly known as the African spear or the Kirk’s spear. It is native to tropical regions of Africa and is prized for its attractive green leaves that are long and narrow with a pointed tip.
Due to its low maintenance requirements and capacity for air purification, it is a well-liked houseplant. The plant grows in a rosette pattern and produces small flowers on tall spikes, making it a unique addition to any indoor or outdoor garden.
Sansevieria Metallica
Sansevieria Metallica, likewise called the metal snake plant, is a species of succulent belonging to Africa. This plant is prized for its striking, metallic-looking foliage, which adds a contemporary touch to any indoor space. Its leaves are thin and high, with a distinctive metallic silver color that can alter with various lighting conditions.
This plant is low maintenance, requiring minimal watering, and can endure in a range of light conditions, making it a popular choice for busy plant owners. Sansevieria Metallica is not just visually pleasing but is also known for its air-purifying abilities, helping to clean the air and enhance indoor air quality.
Sansevieria Ballyi
Sansevieria Ballyi is a species of succulent plant in the Asparagaceae family. It is native to West Africa and is commonly known as Bally’s Snake Plant. This plant is prized for its long, dark green leaves that are lined with silver markings.
It is a low-maintenance plant and is known for its ability to survive in low-light conditions, making it a popular houseplant. Sansevieria Ballyi is also known for its ability to purify the air, making it a great addition to any indoor space.
Sansevieria Concinna
Sansevieria Concinna, commonly known as the African spear plant, is a species of succulent plant native to Africa. This plant has long, narrow leaves that grow vertically from the base, giving it a tall and slender appearance. Its leaves are green with light yellow or cream-colored stripes running along their length.
Sansevieria Concinna is known for its ability to purify the air and remove toxic pollutants, making it a popular choice for indoor gardens and homes. Additionally, it is also low-maintenance and can survive in a wide range of conditions, making it a great option for beginner gardeners.
Sansevieria Aethiopica
Sansevieria Aethiopica, also known as the African spear plant or snake plant, is a species of succulent plant native to Africa. It is known for its sturdy, upright leaves that can grow up to 2–3 feet tall. The leaves are a green-yellow color with darker green stripes.
The plant is hardy and requires very little maintenance, making it an ideal houseplant for busy individuals. Sansevieria Aethiopica is also known for its air-purifying properties, making it a great addition to any indoor space.
Sansevieria Boncellensis
Sansevieria Boncellensis is a type of plant in the Sansevieria genus, commonly known as the Boncel snake plant. It is a slow-growing plant that includes stiff, sword-like leaves with a silver-grey color and dark green stripes.
It is an exceptionally low-maintenance plant that can grow in a wide variety of growing conditions, making it an excellent option for amateur and knowledgeable garden enthusiasts alike. With its striking look, Sansevieria Boncellensis adds a touch of sophistication to any exterior or interior space.
Sansevieria Braunii
Sansevieria Braunii, also known as the African spear plant, is a slow-growing succulent native to West Africa. It is a member of the Asparagaceae family and is commonly grown as a houseplant for its attractive, stiff leaves that grow upwards from a rosette base.
The leaves are a distinctive blue-green color with creamy-yellow stripes, and the plant can grow up to 60 cm tall. Sansevieria Braunii is a low-maintenance plant that can tolerate low light conditions, making it a great choice for indoor gardening. It is also known for its air-purifying qualities, making it a popular choice for homes and offices.
Sansevieria Pinguicula
Sansevieria Pinguicula, likewise referred to as “Majesty” or “Paddle Plant,” is a species of succulent belonging to West Africa. It is a low-growing plant with long, stiff leaves that look like paddles, hence its typical name. Its leaves are dark green with white horizontal stripes and a pointed tip.
It is a hardy plant that is simple to care for and can endure low light and irregular watering. It is also known for its air-purifying properties, making it a popular indoor plant choice.
Sansevieria Trifasciata Laurentii
Sansevieria Trifasciata Laurentii, also known as the snake plant or mother-in-law’s tongue, is a durable succulent plant type that is native to West Africa. This plant is popular due to its ability to survive in low-water and low-light conditions.
It has distinct, high, green leaves with yellow margins, making it a popular ornamental plant. Sansevieria trifasciata Laurentii is likewise understood for its air-purifying residential or commercial properties, making it a great addition to indoor spaces.
Sansevieria Pearsonii
Sansevieria Pearsonii is a type of the genus Sansevieria, also called the snake plant or mother-in-law’s tongue. It is a succulent plant that is native to West Africa and has long, thin leaves with a distinct green and yellow striped pattern.
This plant is simple to take care of and requires low upkeep, making it a popular option for indoor gardens. It is also understood for its ability to purify the air by removing contaminants and improving the quality of indoor air. Sansevieria Pearsonii is a distinct and attractive addition to any collection of houseplants.
Sansevieria Dawei
Sansevieria Dawei is a species of the genus Sansevieria, commonly known as the snake plant. It is native to Africa and is widely cultivated as a houseplant. This species is popular for its ability to tolerate low light and infrequent watering. The leaves of Sansevieria Dawei are green, long, and narrow, growing upright in a rosette pattern. This plant is also known for its air-purifying qualities, making it a great addition to any indoor environment.
Sansevieria Roxburghiana
Sansevieria Roxburghiana, also known as the snake plant, is a species of evergreen perennial plant native to tropical regions of Africa and southern Asia. It is characterized by its tall and stiff leaves that grow upright from a rosette base.
The leaves are green with gray-green cross-banding and can grow up to 3 feet in height. This species is popular for its ability to adapt to a wide range of growing conditions, including low light and infrequent watering, making it a popular choice for indoor and outdoor gardening.
Sansevieria Pfisteri
Sansevieria Pfister is a species of flowering plant native to Africa. It belongs to the Asparagaceae family and is also known as the Pfister’s snake plant. The plant is characterized by its distinctive sword-shaped leaves with a green and yellow striped pattern.
Sansevieria Pfisteri is known for its ability to thrive in a variety of conditions, including low light and infrequent watering. It is a popular houseplant due to its ease of care and air-purifying qualities.
Sansevieria Cincta
Sansevieria Cincta is a species of Sansevieria native to Africa. It is frequently called the snake plant or the mother-in-law’s tongue. The plant is known for its long, sword-shaped leaves that grow up to 2-3 feet high and are covered in a yellow-green variegation.
It is a low-maintenance plant that can survive in a variety of conditions, making it a popular houseplant. Sansevieria Cincta is also known for its air-purifying properties and its capability to soak up contaminants from the environment.
Sansevieria Robusta
Sansevieria Robusta is a type of succulent plant that is native to West Africa. It is frequently referred to as the “ribbon plant” or “stout mother-in-law’s tongue.”
It has long, fleshy, green leaves that are vertically oriented and mature to 90 cm high. Sansevieria Robusta is a low-maintenance plant that requires little water and can endure low light conditions. It is an excellent choice for those who are brand new to indoor gardening or are trying to find a plant that can flourish in extreme conditions.
Sansevieria Francisii
Sansevieria Francisii, typically referred to as the Whirlpool or Spiral Snake Plant, is a type of succulent plant native to West Africa. It is known for its special, spiral-shaped leaves that grow upwards in a tight rosette. The leaves are dark green with lighter green cross-bands and can grow up to 18 inches long.
Sansevieria Francisii is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to take care of, making it a popular option amongst indoor garden enthusiasts. It is also understood for its air-purifying capabilities and ability to grow in low-light conditions.
Sansevieria Aubrytiana
Sansevieria Aubrytiana, also known as the African spear plant, is a species of the Sansevieria genus native to Africa. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its distinctive appearance and low maintenance requirements. The plant grows tall, fleshy leaves that are green with brown stripes, making it an attractive addition to any home or garden.
Sansevieria Aubrytiana is a hardy plant that thrives in low light conditions and can survive in a variety of soil types. It is also known for its air-purifying qualities and is often used to improve indoor air quality.
Sansevieria Ehrenbergii
Sansevieria Ehrenbergii, also known as African spear, is a species of plant that belongs to the Asparagaceae family. It is native to the tropical regions of West Africa but is widely cultivated in other parts of the world for its ornamental value.
This species is known for its distinctive, pointed leaves that are green in color and have a yellowish-white border. It is an easy-to-care-for plant, making it a popular choice for homes and offices. Sansevieria Ehrenbergii is also known for its air-purifying properties, as it has the ability to absorb harmful toxins from the air.
Sansevieria Golden Hahnii
Sansevieria Golden Hahnii, also referred to as the dwarf snake plant, is a popular houseplant known for its appealing golden yellow leaves and its capability to flourish in a large range of conditions. With low light and water requirements, this plant is easy to care for and adds a touch of tropical beauty to any room.
The leaves are long and thin, forming a rosette pattern that creates a striking visual effect. Sansevieria Golden Hahnii is also known for its air-purifying residential or commercial properties, making it a terrific addition to any indoor area.
Sansevieria Liberica
Sansevieria Liberica is a species of succulent plant that belongs to the Asparagaceae family. It is commonly referred to as the “African spear” or “Liberian hemp.” This species is native to tropical West Africa and is highly prized for its unique, tall, and narrow leaves that can reach up to 3 feet in height.
The leaves have a distinctive mottled pattern and are known for their durability and ability to survive in low-light conditions. Sansevieria Liberica is an easy-to-care-for houseplant that is a great addition to any home or office.
Sansevieria Raffillii
Sansevieria Raffillii, also known as the “African spear plant,” is a species of succulent native to West Africa. It is a slow-growing plant with thick, cylindrical leaves that grow vertically, reaching up to 3 feet tall. The leaves are deep green with a slight sheen, and the edges are lined with small white teeth.
Sansevieria Raffillii is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in bright, indirect light and can tolerate drought conditions. It is also considered a natural air purifier, making it a great addition to any home or office.
Sansevieria Elliptica
Sansevieria Elliptica is a species of flowering plant native to West Africa. Also known as the African spear plant, it is a hardy and easy-to-care-for succulent that thrives in low light conditions.
The leaves are long, narrow, and have a unique elliptical shape, making it a popular choice for indoor plant enthusiasts. Sansevieria Elliptica has been proven to improve indoor air quality by removing harmful pollutants and producing oxygen, making it an ideal choice for a green and healthy home.
Sansevieria Sayuri
Sansevieria Elliptica is a type of flowering plant native to West Africa. Known as the African Spear Plant, it is an easy-to-care-for succulent that thrives in low light conditions. The leaves are long, narrow, and have a unique elliptical shape, making it a popular option for indoor plant enthusiasts.
Sansevieria Elliptica has been proven to improve indoor air quality by producing and removing damaging pollutants, making it an ideal choice for a green and healthy house.
How To Grow And Care For Sansevieria
Sansevieria, also known as Snake Plant or Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, is a resilient and low-maintenance succulent that is known for its air-purifying properties. Here are some tips on how to grow and care for Sansevieria:
- Light: Sansevieria can grow in a variety of light conditions, from low indirect light to bright direct light. However, they do not tolerate direct sunlight exposure.
- Watering: Sansevieria are drought-tolerant and only need to be watered when the soil has completely dried out. Overwatering can cause root rot, so make sure the soil is well-drained.
- Soil: Sansevieria prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH between 6.0 and 7.5. A mixture of potting soil and sand or perlite works well.
- Humidity: Sansevieria does not require high humidity, but it can be beneficial to mist the leaves once a week to prevent spider mites and other pests.
- Fertilizer: Sansevieria only needs to be fertilized once a month during the growing season (spring to fall) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
- Propagation: Sansevieria can be propagated through division or by taking leaf cuttings and rooting them in water or soil.
- Pruning: Pruning is not necessary for Sansevieria, but if desired, the yellow or brown leaves can be removed to keep the plant looking tidy.
With proper care, Sansevieria can thrive and make a beautiful addition to any indoor or outdoor garden.
How To Propagate Sansevieria Succulent
Sansevieria, also known as Snake Plant or Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, can be propagated in a few different ways:
- Division: This is the most common and easiest method of propagation. Simply remove the offsets (small plants growing at the base of the parent plant) and repot them into new containers.
- Leaf Cuttings: Cut a healthy leaf from the parent plant, making sure to cut it near the base of the plant. Allow the cuttings to callus over for a few days, and then plant them in well-draining soil. Water sparingly until new roots have formed and the new plant is well established.
- Rhizome Cuttings: Cut a section of the rhizome (the thick, underground stem) from the parent plant and plant it in well-draining soil. Water sparingly until new roots have formed and the new plant is well established.
No matter which method you choose, make sure to provide bright, indirect light and well-draining soil for the best results. Sansevieria are slow-growing and can take several months to a year to fully establish, so be patient and avoid overwatering.
Top 5 FAQ And Answers For Sansevieria
Q: What type of soil is best for Sansevieria?
A: Sansevieria prefers well-draining soil that is slightly on the dry side. A mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand works well.
Q: How much light does Sansevieria need?
A: Sansevieria is a low-light plant and can thrive in low to medium light conditions. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to scorch.
Q: How often should I water my Sansevieria?
A: Sansevieria is a drought-tolerant plant and can go for several weeks without water. When the top inch of soil seems dry to the touch, water it. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Q: What is the ideal temperature for Sansevieria?
A: Sansevieria can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and can thrive in normal room temperatures of 65-75°F.
Q: How can I get my Sansevieria to flower?
A: Sansevieria rarely flowers indoors, but they can bloom if they receive bright light and are kept at a slightly cooler temperature. Flowers can also be induced by placing the plant in complete darkness for several week.
Top 10 Interesting Facts About Sansevieria
- Sansevieria is a succulent plant native to West Africa and is also known as the Snake Plant, Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, or simply as Snake Tongue.
- It is one of the easiest plants to care for, as it can survive with very little water and can tolerate low light levels.
- The leaves of the Sansevieria are long, stiff, and pointed, and can grow up to several feet tall, giving it a dramatic appearance.
- It is believed to have air-purifying qualities, as it can remove toxins such as benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, and xylene from the air.
- Sansevieria is a slow-growing plant, and in ideal conditions, it can live for several decades.
- The plant is also believed to have positive effects on one’s mental and physical health. It is said to improve air quality, reduce stress and fatigue, and boost overall well-being.
- In ancient times, Sansevieria was used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, such as headaches, skin irritations, and snake bites.
- The plant is also a popular housewarming gift in many cultures, symbolizing good luck and protection for the home.
- Sansevieria has a unique way of reproducing itself. It can grow new shoots from its base, or it can produce seeds, but it rarely flowers indoors.
- There are over 70 species of Sansevieria, each with its unique characteristics, including different leaf shapes, colors, and patterns.
