The Snake Plant is one of the most intriguing plants due to its name and foliage. It usually serves for ornamental purposes in homes and offices as it effortlessly provides a fresh ambience.
About Snake Plant
Scientifically this plant is known as Sansevieria trifasciata, but commonly it is called Mother-in-law's tongue. It is a very popular indoor plant native to Asia and Africa. Its sharp and edgy leaves are the actual show stopper that many assume to be artificial.
The Different Varieties of Snake Plant
• Sansevieria trifasciata Hahnii, aka bird's best snake plant, because the leaves resemble a bird's nest.
• Sansevieria cylindrica, aka cylinder snake plant, whose leaves curve outward from the centre.
• Sansevieria trifasciata Laurentii, aka variegated snake plant, has yellow margins on the leaves.
• Sansevieria trifasciata Twist, has leaves sprouting in twisted forms.
• Sansevieria trifasciata 'Bantel’s Sensation, has white vertical stripes on the narrow leaves.
• Sansevieria desertii, aka Rhino grass, has leaves with a red tint.
How to Plant it?
• The pot you choose should have a drainage hole in the bottom. Opt for a terracotta pot to a plastic one since the soil dries much easier.
• Get the succulents and cacti potting mix for your plant because they are well-draining.
• Avoid repotting the snake plant too deep in the pot. It should be somewhere in the middle so that it has enough space to grow.
What is the Ideal Location?
The best spot for
indoor Snake plants is where they get an uninterrupted share of sunlight. They should be placed on east-facing windows and balconies. Make sure the location is warm all year round.
What are the Watering Tips?
• One of the most widely made mistakes is to overwater the Snake plant. It is a hardy indoor plant that can easily survive for days without water.
• The only way to water the plant at the appropriate time is by sticking your finger in the soil to check for any moisture. If the soil is wholly dry, water it. If not, let it sit for another day or two.
• In winters, reduce the frequency of the watering sessions since the soil takes longer to dry out.
What is its Optimum Sunlight Intake?
• They are very flexible and forgiving plants.
• They adapt to bright, as well as, dim conditions, although in the latter, their growth rate remains low.
• Typically they require an indirect but steady light for optimal growth.
Does it have any Benefits?
• Purify the Air: Snake plants, like other succulents, help in purifying the air. They convert the indoor CO2 levels into oxygen at night.
• Remove Toxic Pollutants: They possess the ability to remove toxic pollutants from the indoor air. They absorb cancer-causing, benzene, xylene, formaldehyde, CO2 and toluene.
What are its Dangers?
The Snake plant is not particularly dangerous to have at home or office. However, the consumption of its leaves can turn out to be mildly toxic. If eaten in large doses, it can cause numbness and swelling in the tongue. It's advised to keep children and pets at bay.
Consider bringing Snake plants in aesthetic planters to make a peaceful and green corner at home.
