The snake plant, also known as Sansevieria, has a rich history and versatile uses.
Its Latin name is Sansevieria Trifasciata, which is a species of flowering plant in the family Asparagaceae.
This plant is native to West Africa, where it grows in the wild, and has been cultivated for centuries for its ornamental and medicinal value.
The snake plant is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of lighting conditions, making it a popular choice for indoor spaces.
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What is it Called?
The snake plant, also known as Mother-in-law's Tongue, has several common names including Golden Birds Nest and Good Luck Plant.
It's worth noting that snake plants are also known by many cultivar names, each with its unique characteristics.
Some popular cultivars include 'Bantel's Sensation', 'Black Gold', and 'Laurentii', which are known for their striking foliage patterns.
Here are some examples of snake plant cultivars and their characteristics:
The snake plant is a versatile plant that can thrive in different conditions, and its various cultivars offer a range of options for gardeners and indoor plant enthusiasts.
Sansevieria Trifasciata
Sansevieria trifasciata is a type of plant that's known for its striking yellow margin.
This variegated type, specifically Sansevieria trifasciata var. laurentii, received the Royal Horticultural Society Award of Garden Merit.
The genus Dracaena Vand. ex L. was described by Carl von Linnaeus in 1767, and it includes the species that were previously listed under Sansevieria.
Dracaena trifasciata, the same species as Sansevieria trifasciata, likes a crowded root system.
They should be grown in clay pots and not repotted until their roots break the pot.
After propagating Sansevieria trifasciata by division or leaf cuttings, be aware that the offspring of variegated cultivars will lack the variegated margin if propagated by leaf cuttings.
Dracaena trifasciata are easy to grow and there are only a few basic rules to follow: part shade or a north-facing window is best, don't overwater, and never allow the pot to sit in water.
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Cultivation and Uses
The snake plant is a low-maintenance houseplant that's perfect for beginners.
It's surprisingly adaptable to low light levels and irregular watering, making it a great choice for busy people or those new to indoor gardening.
You can water it as little as once every couple of months during winter, but be careful not to overwater, as it will rot easily.
The NASA Clean Air Study found that the snake plant has the potential to filter indoor air, removing four of the five main toxins involved in sick building syndrome.
However, its rate of filtration is a bit too slow for practical indoor use.
You can propagate the snake plant by cuttings or by dividing the rhizome, but keep in mind that the variegation will be lost with the first method.
It's also worth noting that the snake plant contains saponins, which are mildly toxic to dogs and cats and can cause gastrointestinal upset if consumed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What did NASA say about snake plants?
NASA found that snake plants are highly effective at removing toxins from the air, including formaldehyde, xylene, and nitrogen oxides. This makes them a great choice for improving indoor air quality.
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