The Sansevieria, also known as the lady's tongue or snake plant, is a popular and robust houseplant valued for its strong, upright leaves and easy care. The leaves are straight and pointed, with colors ranging from deep green to light green, often with graceful stripes or spots. They are tough and leathery, which makes the plant resistant to varying conditions.
Maintenance and ideal location
The Sansevieria is particularly suitable for both active plant lovers and people who have little time for plant care. This plant can grow in both bright light and shady corners, although it prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves, so a spot near a window with filtered light is ideal. Sansevierias are very tolerant of dry conditions and only require occasional watering. It is important to allow the soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot, as the plant does not respond well to overwatering. The plant prefers well-drained soil and does well in pots with drainage holes. An annual repotting is usually sufficient to keep the plant healthy.
Scientific name and origin
The scientific name of the Sansevieria is Sansevieria trifasciata. This plant is native to West Africa, where it grows in dry, rocky environments and forests. In its natural habitat, the Sansevieria is adapted to variable water conditions and can survive extreme drought. By bringing a Sansevieria into your home, you bring a piece of African flora indoors, with a plant that is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also has a low maintenance requirement and contributes to healthy air quality by filtering air pollutants.