Sansevieria Trifasciata Care Guide – Snake Plant Care

Sansevieria Trifasciata Prain is a perennial succulent. It is commonly known as mother-in-law’s tongue plant. The green irregular stripes pattern on the leaves makes it look like a snake’s skin. Thus, it’s called a snake plant. It is a very hardy plant that can thrive in just about any environmental conditions. You can easily grow snake plants indoors or outdoors. Outdoor plants tend to get more light and space to grow rapidly. This plant belongs to the genus Dracaena from the Asparagaceae family. Some beautiful cultivars of Sansevieria Trifasciata include Sansevieria Laurentii, Hahnii, Bantel’s Sensation etc.

Also Known As

Dracaena Trifasciata, Snake Plant, Mother-in-law’s Tongue, Dracaena Trifasciata Prain, Viper’s Bowstring Hemp, Saint George’s Sword, Bowstring Hemp, Sansevieria Trifasciata Prain. Snake’s Tongue African Bowstring Hemp Sansevieria Jacquinii Devil’s Tongue

At A Glance

Features

Origin

Indigenous to tropical west Africa, from Nigeria east to the Congo. It's also found in India, Madagascar, Indonesia and other tropical regions.

Size

The plant can generally grow up to 5 feet tall in ideal growing conditions. Mature leaves are almost 1-3 inches in width. Flower stalks can get 2.5 feet high.

Foliage

The sword-shaped, flat leaves grow upright from a basal rosette. Foliage is whitish green with horizontal irregular bands of deep green. Leaf venation is parallel. The stemless succulent leaves are channeled at the base.

Flower

Small, greenish white flowers bloom on an upright flower stalk. Mature plants can bloom annually during spring. The flowers are tubular-shaped and have a pleasant fragrance. After the bloom, it produces small orange-red berries.

Toxicity

All parts of the snake plant are mildly toxic. They can cause poisoning when ingested. Particularly, it causes mouth and gastrointestinal irritation. Some of the symptoms are vomiting, nausea, diarrhea. Keep away from children and pets.

Growth Season

Snake plant is a slow growing species. Its active growing season is spring and summer. Flowering period is usually spring. During winters, the plant remains dormant.

Pests

Mealybugs and spider mites are possible threats to Sansevieria Trifasciata. A snake plant is a hardy plant with tough leaves. And, it's less likely to get infected. Infection can be cured by tackling the root cause. However, it may leave permanent marks on the plant.

Propagation

Snake plants can be propagated by dividing the plant from its roots. Another method is cutting off rhizomes and planting them in soil. Sections of a healthy leaf can also be used to create new plants.

Growing Conditions

Water

This plant doesn't demand frequent watering. Let the soil dry off completely before each watering, and allow it to drain freely. Don't let the plant sit in the drenched soil. Water the plant once a week in the growing season. During winters it needs water once a month.

Light

Optimal conditions are moderate to bright filtered sunlight. However, it can easily adapt to low light conditions as well. But avoid extremes like deeply shaded areas, and direct sun during hot summers

Soil

A loose and well-draining soil is best for snake plants. Mix in sand, perlite or mulch to increase drainage capacity of a regular soil. A succulent and cacti potting mix also works well.

Environment

Mild to tropical climates are best for the plant growth. If kept outdoors, keep them in a partial shade or full shade. Avoid any frost during winter. Don't keep it below 40°F for long. 60-80°F (15-27°C) temperatures are easily suited.