Introducing...
Sansevieria
Botanical name: Sansevieria
Common name: Mother-in-law's tongue, snake plant
These handsome houseplants, with their pointed, upright leaves, are deservedly popular for their resilience, longevity and dramatic appearance. There are several species and cultivars to choose from, including dwarf and variegated forms.
Looks
Sansevierias form clumps of stiff, fleshy, vertical leaves, typically up to about 45cm (1½ft) tall. Plants are stemless, with their leaves emerging from the base. The colours and markings on the leathery, pointed leaves vary between the different species.
Likes
Sansevierias are happy in a wide range of indoor situations, from full sun to light shade, in pots of free-draining compost. They grow best at 15–24°C (60–75°F). Water moderately from spring to autumn, and more sparingly in winter. They are tolerant of poor light and forgiving of a little neglect.
Dislikes
These succulent, drought-resistant plants dislike high humidity and wet conditions, so be careful not to overwater them. They can cope in poor light, but generally grow better in brighter locations. Always keep them above 10°C (50°F).
Did you know?
Although grown for their striking foliage, they occasionally produce spikes of highly fragrant white flowers. In the wild, these are pollinated by moths.
Growing guide
How to grow sansevierias
All the information you’ll need to grow and care for sansevierias in your home.
Sansevierias we recommend
Sansevieria bacularis 'Mikado'
- 0.1–0.5 metres
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Sansevieria trifasciata var. laurentii (v)
variegated snake plant
- 0.5–1 metres
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Sansevieria cylindrica
cylindrical mother-in-law's tongue
- 1–1.5 metres
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Sansevieria bacularis 'Mikado'
- 0.1–0.5 metres
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Sansevieria trifasciata var. laurentii (v)
variegated snake plant
- 0.5–1 metres
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Sansevieria cylindrica
cylindrical mother-in-law's tongue
- 1–1.5 metres
- 0.1–0.5 metres
Useful advice
Houseplants for different locations
Houseplants: to support human health
How to grow houseplant cacti and succulents
How to grow houseplants
How to help a poorly houseplant
Leaf damage on houseplants
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.