Sansevieria Zeylanica

Image source: Photo by David J. Stang / CC BY-SA

Sansevieria Zeylanica is often misrecognized as Sansevieria Trifasciata. Both these species look closely similar and are difficult to tell apart. However, there is a subtle difference in their leaf patterns. Although this variety is less well-known as compared to Sansevieria Trifasciata (commonly known as snake plant or mother in law’s tongue), it is equally tough and hardy.
This plant belongs to the genus Dracaena of the Asparagaceae family.

Also known as

Ceylon Bowstring Hemp
Bowstring Hemp
Acyntha Zeylanica
Aloe Zeylanica
Aletris Zeylanica
Sansevieria Indica
Aloe Hyacinthoides var. Zeylanica

At a glance

Features

Origin

Sansevieria Zeylanica is native to the area of southeast Asia. It is specifically found in dry and rocky areas of SriLanka and southern India.

Foliage

Leaves are long, sword-shaped and erect. They are dark olive green in color and have pale green wavy horizontal stripes. Overall the foliage has tough, rugged look and pointy tips.

Size

The plant can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and can spread almost 1 foot across. Individual leaves are 1 inch wide. The flower stalk can grow over 2 feet long.

Flower

The plant rarely blooms, but can blossom once a year. Flower stem grows clusters of delicate, tubular flowers. They are 1-1.5 inches long, lightly fragrant and have a greenish-white color.