Sansevieria

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.

Sansevierias are happy in a wide range of indoor situations, from full sun to light shade, in pots of free-draining peat-free compost. They grow best at 15–24°C (60–75°F). They are drought-tolerant plants so only water once the compost is starting to dry out. They are tolerant of poor light and forgiving of a little neglect.

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).

Although grown for their striking foliage, they occasionally produce spikes of highly fragrant white flowers. In the wild, these are pollinated by moths.