6" Sansevieria Trifasciata 'Laurentii'
Overview
Native to Africa (Madagascar) and South Asia. There are about 70 species of Sansevieria. Sansevieria varieties are commonly known as ‘snake plants’ because of their long leaves and tapered ends.
Sansevierias are famously known for their low-maintenance and air purifying characteristics. They are the perfect gift to give anyone on any occasion as they come in different sizes and are easy to take care of.
Sansevieria Family
Sansevieria Cylindrica or Spikey
Snakey Sansevieria (Snake Plant)
Sansevieria Fernwood Punk
Sansevieria Trifasciata ‘Black Gold’
Sansevieria Trifasciata ‘Futura Robusta
Sansevieria Trifasciata ‘Futura Superba’
Sansevieria Trifasciata ‘Laurentii’ aka Variegated Snake Plant
Mother in Law Tongue (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Spear Orchid (Sansevieria cylindrica v. patula ‘Boncel’)
Twisted Sister Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata ‘Twisted sister’)
Care Tips
Care Level
Snake plants are among the very easiest and best plants for beginners, or anyone for that matter. They are maintenance, hence good for new plant parents.
Sansevieria is easy to grow and is nearly indestructible as they thrive in either very bright light or almost dark corners of the house.
Snake plant also removes toxins from the air– All this makes it a perfect houseplant for beginners.
Lighting
Sansevierias do best in moderate to bright indirect light. However, they will do fine in low light areas and can also withstand full sun.
If the leaves start to look sad and droopy, they may need more light.
If your leaves are thinning and starting to blacken or brown, they may need less light. Also, look out for crisping tips which means it needs less light as well.
Water
Water only when the soil is almost thoroughly dry. You can use a wooden stick to test how dry it is. If the stick comes out moist or with sand stuck to it, hold off on watering. If it is dry, you can water it but it won’t hurt to wait another few days, especially if you tend to overwater plants. Water, less during winter compared to spring and summer.
Try to avoid getting the leaves wet when watering. You can wipe them down with a damp cloth when you see the dust settling on them.
Snake plants store extra water in their leaves, stems, and roots, making them thrive in drier environments.
Humidity
The Sansevierias are accustomed to hot and humid conditions and can generally adapt to/tolerate the average room temperature.
Temperature
Avoid keeping your snake plant next to cold drafts.
12 degrees Celcius to 31 is a good range of temperatures for your Sansevieria to thrive.
Pets
Snake plants are actually quite toxic for pets. Symptoms include vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and mouth pain in cats and dogs. Some alternatives you could explore having are Spider Plants or the Baby Rubber Plant (Peperomia Obtusifolia).
Other fun facts:
Snake plants are unique for their look - upright, stiff, and sword-like structure. This architectural look makes them perfect for modern interior decor, and easy to use to brighten up the dark corners of your home or office.
Sansevieria uses Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM) process of photosynthesis. CAM plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen at night, unlike most plants that release oxygen only during the day.
The Snake plant has some fun nicknames such as Mother-in-Law’s Tongue and Devil’s Tongue.
The Snake plant is often associated with good feng shui, as a sign of good luck, prosperity, and protection.
