In this episode we are going to talk about the Sansevieria plant – Also known as mother-in-law’s tongue or snake plant. We are going to discuss lighting, watering, care, benefits, and propagation.
If you have never grown a house plant before and are looking for something that is virtually indestructible, then look no further. The Sansevieria is perfect for the forgetful gardener and a great starter plant. This is probably the toughest and most tolerant houseplant you can find, as it is able to survive many unsuitable growing conditions.
According to NASA’s Clean Air Study, the Snake Plant is considered an air purifying plant as it removes toxins from the air. It releases nighttime oxygen, so it’s ideal to have in your bedroom. It filters indoor air pollution, particularly benzene, formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, xylene, and toluene. Snake Plant Plants are mildly toxic if eaten. Keep away from children and animals.
Mother-in-Law’s Tongue is commonly known as Snake plant, while its full scientific name is Sansevieria trifasciata laurentii. It is a succulent from West Africa and a popular choice for indoor gardens and interior design. It is called Mother-in-Law’s Tongue for their long, sharp, pointed leaves and because it lasts so long. These are long-lived, easy-care houseplants. It is also called Snake Plant as their pattern resembles the scales of a snake.
I like to place it in an area with plenty of bright light and mild temperatures to help the plant flourish. Although Mother-in-law’s Tongue is tolerant of low light. Variegated forms need more light and can be more difficult to grow. The pattern in the leaves tends to be more bright when exposed to light. But bright direct light may be too intense for the plant and may cause leaf dropping. A north facing window is acceptable but Long periods of Northern exposure may cause drooping leaves.
If you did place the plant in full sun without a gradual transition, remove it to a shadier place and slowly transition it back to the sunnier area over a period of time.
I also like to turn the pot a quarter turn every week for even light exposure.
Water the soil, taking care not to get water on the leaves, which will cause them to rot. I like to water along the sides of the plant. Try to keep water out of the center of the leaf clump. Water until the water drains from the bottom and empty drained water from trays promptly.
Any problems with growing Sansevieria are usually related to watering. Allow the top 2-3 inches of soil to dry out between watering during the growing season. Every 2-3 weeks is typically adequate.
In winter months only water when leaves begin to look slightly wilted. Once a month is usually sufficient depending on your humidity. If your snake plant is near a heat vent or sunny window you will need water more frequently.
If the leaves turn yellow, or get soft and mushy at their base, it’s overwatered. If this happens, stop watering immediately, and rub a small amount of vegetable oil on the leaves. The vegetable oil will force water out of the mushy spot and turn it green again.
While the natural yellow outline on the edges of the variegated snake plant is normal, yellowing across the entire leaves is a sign the plant is either being overwatered or has been transitioned too quickly to an area with bright sunlight.
The snake plant is one of the few plants that can be propagated with cuttings taken from cross-sections of their long spear-shaped leaves. The Sansevieria will produce roots when placed in soil or water. Be sure to let the cuttings callus over for 3-7 days first though. If not they are more subject to rotting.