The snake plant (Sanseveria trifasciata), also referred to as “mother in law’s tongue”, is a member of the lily family and native to Asia and the tropical regions of central and southern Africa. This hardy succulent is a wonderful houseplant for those lacking a green thumb. Not only is it easy to care for, it actually thrives on neglect.
Snake plants can be identified by their smooth, fibrous spear-like foliage which grows from a rhizome. Stalks can reach heights of 4 1/2 feet, and many boast marble-like horizontal silver-green stripes on a background of dark green. These showy variegated bands vary in intensity, depending on the amount of sun exposure the plant receives. Plants in sunny locations will have more contrast in the foliage. The foliage is often bordered by a narrow golden hue.
Repotting Snake Plant
Although they are easy to care for, snake plants require soil which is highly alkaline. This can be achieved by adding a handful or two of perlite or sand to the soil. Established plants will benefit from replacing the top layer of soil with a fresh mixture annually. A low-nitrogen fertilizer can be applied according to package directions approximately every three months.
Snake plants should be kept in a location that is moderately warm. However, they can tolerate temperatures as low as 45 degrees Fahrenheit for a short while. Since they are tolerant of low-light conditions, a snake plant is an excellent choice for a dimly lit corner or an office.
Avoid Overwatering your Snake Plant
Too much water can cause root rot and kill the plant. It is fine to let the soil become dry between waterings, especially during winter months. This is where being neglectful is a plus.
People are often surprised when a beautiful creamy yellow or celery green bloom appears. Such was the case with my mother’s plant that she inherited from her mother. This decades-old plant produced lovely, sweetly fragrant flowers. It is older or root-bound snake plants that are more likely to produce blooms, so if you want to encourage your snake plant to bloom, let it outgrow its pot. Heavy clay or ceramic pot with plenty of drainages is recommended.
Because of their sturdy, thick foliage, snake plants do not usually have a problem with pests. However, they can be invaded by mealybugs. This can be remedied by cleaning the affected areas with rubbing alcohol.
Types of Snake Indoor Plants
There are around 70 different species of Snake Indoor Plants, all native to tropical and sub-tropical regions of Europe, Africa, and Asia. they’re all evergreen and may grow anywhere from 8 inches (20 cm.) to 12 feet (3.5 m.) high. the foremost commonly used species for gardening is Snake Indoor Plants, often referred to as mother-in-law’s tongue. However, if you’d like something a touch different, the subsequent species and cultivars are worth searching for:
Sansevieria ‘Golden Hahnii’ –
This species has short leaves with yellow borders. Cylindrical Snake Indoor Plants.
Sansevieria cylindrical –
This mother-in-law’s tongue has round, dark green, striped leaves and may grow to 2 to three feet (61-91 cm.).
Sansevieria trifasciata ‘Twist’ –
As the name suggests, this cultivar has twisted leaves. it’s also striped horizontally, has yellow variegated edges, and grows to a few 14 inches (35.5 cm.) tall. Rhino Grass,
Sansevieria desertii –
This one grows to around 12 inches (30+ cm.) with succulent red-tinted leaves.
White, Sansevieria trifasciata ‘Bantel’s Sensation’ –
This cultivar grows to around 3 feet tall and has narrow leaves with white vertical stripes.
Hopefully, this text has helped to elucidate the way to grow a Snake Indoor Plants. They really are the simplest of plants to seem after, and can happily reward your lack of attention by giving clean air to your home and a touch cheer within the corner of any room.