The October plant of the month is the Sansevieria (also known as the snake plant, snake tongue, devil's tongue, viper’s bow string hemp and mother-in-law's tongue). It is a member of the Asparagaceae family and is a genus of about 70 species of flowering plants, native to Africa, Madagascar and southern Asia.
How To Recognise The Sansevieria:
The Sansevieria is undoubtedly one of the most easily recognized plants in the world. It boasts slightly twisted strap like stems with bright variegated colouring and clump forming habit. It has stiff, thick leaves, often mottled with white, and clustered flowers on slender stalks.
How To Care For The Sansevieria:
The Sansevieria is one of the easiest plants to grow indoors. It requires very little care, often thriving on neglect and hardship.
- Place in a bright location - this allows it to hold its multiple colours.
- Keep the compost on the (slightly) dry side - water once a month and every six weeks in winter.
- Re-pot the plant once the original pot is full of strong, erect stems. When re-potting the plant use a loam based compost.
- Apply a liquid feed to the plant in summer, when it is actively growing.
Reasons To Love The Sansevieria:
- It is one of the best plants for air purification, filtering out formaldehyde and nitrogen oxide. The plant does this at night, thus it will clean the air around you as you sleep.
- It is low maintenance, requiring little watering or care.
- The Sansevieria has an edgy and unique look.
- It is considered a good luck plant!
The Sansevieria is an ideal plant to gift to new home owners or individuals new to gardening. It also makes a fantastic plant for your office desk or home. Why not add the Sansevieria to your home or office desk today?
Have you got a gardening question on your mind? Just contact your local store where one of our helpful and knowledgeable staff will be happy to help and answer any questions you may have.