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Hey there! Did you know that the 'Sansevieria zeylanica,' commonly referred to as the mother-in-law tongue plant or snake plant, and very similar to the Sansevieria trifasciata. This evergreen perennial plant is very popular among gardeners for its easy-to-care nature. 

This mother-in-law plant with its unique sword-shaped leaves with wave-like horizontal patterns in creamy white flowers, it's no wonder why people call it "mother-in-law’s tongue," sometimes also known as Ceylon bowstring hemp. But this mother-in-law snake plant tends to be tall, upright plant with long, sword-like leaves that are dark green with lighter green horizontal stripes compared to the Sansevieria trifasciata. This stemless perennial blooming beauty can grow up to 2.5 feet tall and 4 inches wide. 

Originally from India and Sri Lanka, this evergreen plant thrives in bright light to partial shade, making it perfect for any indoor space. This is one of the few houseplants that release oxygen at night instead of during the day. How cool is that? Not only does this adorable plant purify the air by removing harmful pollutants like formaldehyde and xylene, but it also adds a fresh burst of oxygen. At the same time, you sleep, making it an excellent addition to your bedroom oasis. 

And don't worry if you're not an experienced gardener - we've got all the tips and tricks you need to care for your Sansevieria zeylanica. 

Watering Needs 

Like other succulents, the Sanseveria zeylanica is drought-tolerant, and doesn't require much watering. You shouldn't water the soil until it has completely dried out. During the winter, this indoor plant goes dormant and requires less water. While during the spring and summer, when it is actively growing, it will require a lot of water. 

Watch for signs of dehydration in your succulent, such as a pale discoloration and the leaves starting to shrivel. This indicates that it's consuming the water stored in its interior. Both under and overwatering can be detrimental to your snake plant, so you must ensure you apply the right amount of moisture to keep them healthy and happy. 

Light Requirements 

This mother-in-law tongue plant is one of the most popular indoor plants as it looks cool and is easy to care for; the best choice is to provide it with as much light as possible. To ensure the succulent thrives, provide 4-6 hours of bright, indirect, but can also tolerate low light conditions. On the other hand, prolonged exposure to strong, direct sunlight can be harmful. 

A window with lots of light is a good idea. If you keep it in low light, your Sansevieria zeylanica may develop a dark green hue. 

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs 

This snake plant favors very airy, sandy soil that drains well. Planting them in ordinary soil will result in compacted roots, stunted growth, and, most likely, root rot. Instead, make or buy a well-draining potting mix, or ideally, use our specialized potting mix that contains organic mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your succulent to thrive. 

When it comes to fertilizers, organic fertilizers with an equal ratio of 5-10-5 (NPK) also last longer and keep your soil alive by adding other beneficial compounds and microbes that encourage plant health and nutrient absorption. So, skip those harsh chemicals (too much fertilizer) and give your tropical plants some love with some awesome organic fertilizer! 

Hardiness Zones & More 

The mother's tongue plant can withstand brief periods of frost but does best in sunny, warm climates. Generally, these are hardy plants that can be grown in the garden in USDA zone 9 - 11.  

A succulent tends to live for many years and grows slowly. Planting them in the spring after the weather warms up is the ideal time for this beauty. 

So, the Sansevieria zeylanica snake plant is quite a hardy plant that is suitable for beginners to grow in the garden and as houseplants. Their growth rate is slow, and they tend to last for many years. 

Bloom Season spring and summer
Bloom Season Summer
Botanical Name Sansevieria zeylanica
Common Name Mother-in-law tongue plant, Bowstring hemp
Dormancy winter
Family Asparagaceae
Flower Color pale green or greenishwhite
Flower Color Pale green, Greenish white
Genus Sansevieria
Growth Habit Rosettes
Growth Rate Slow
Hardiness Zone 9, 10, 11
Mature Size 1824 in. (4560 cm)
Mature Size 4 ft. tall, 2 ft. wide
Native Area South East Asian Region
Native Area West Africa
Plant Type Perennial succulent
Propagation By divisions, leaf cuttings
Resistance 50°F
Resistance Drought tolerant, pest resistance, disease resistant, heat tolerant
Soil PH 6.5, Acidic, Neutral
Soil Type specialized succulent potting mix
Special Features Air purifying plant
Sun Exposure Full sun, partial shade
Toxicity Mild toxic to humans, mild toxic for pets(Keep away from children)
Watering Needs Low

Pests & Common Problems of Mother-in-Law's Tongue-Snake Plant

Sansevieria zeylanica is durable and simple to grow. It doesn't happen very often for you to have problems with it. Let's go over the ones that might appear! 

Only two pests, mealybugs and spider mites, frequently attack the mother-in-law plant. Both insects are sucking pests that consume the plant's leaf juices. Both can make the healthy leaves unappealing, despite the fact that they are unlikely to spread diseases. It is critical to eliminate pests as soon as they appear. 

For mealybugs: To get rid of them, simply dab the insects with a cotton swab dipped in 70% isopropyl rubbing alcohol. Until they are gone, repeat this procedure every week. 

For scale insects: Using a pair of heavy gloves, you can remove scale insects from the plant.  

Furthermore, too much water or poorly drained soil can develop root rot. Sansevieria zeylanica, like the snake plant and other Sansevieria species, is mildly toxic and should not be consumed. 

Mother-in-Law's Tongue-Snake Plant FAQs

How do you take care of Sansevieria Zeylanica? 

Sansevieria zeylanica is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to take care of. This mother-in-law plant prefers bright indirect light, a well-drained potting mix, is hardy in USDA zones 9–11, and requires minimal watering. Be careful not to overwater it, as this can cause the roots to rot. It can also benefit from a light fertilizer once a year during the growing season.  

Sansevieria is a slow-growing plant, so it doesn't need to be repotted often. When you do repot it, use a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Overall, Sansevieria zeylanica is a great plant for beginners and experienced gardeners alike. 

Is the snake plant Sansevieria Zeylanica an indoor or outdoor plant?    

This snake plant is a versatile tropical plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors plants in bright, indirect light. It is popular for indoor spaces due to its air-purifying properties and ability to thrive in low light conditions. It is a relatively low-maintenance plant, so if you reside in USDA zones 9 to 11, you can grow it outdoors. 

Does Sansevieria zeylanica need full sun? 

Mother-in-law's tongue (Sansevieria zeylanica) prefers bright, indirect light but can also tolerate low light conditions. It can be grown in full sun, but it may require more frequent watering and may be more prone to leaf burn.

If you are growing Sansevieria indoors, it is best to place it near a window that receives bright, indirect light for several hours a day. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can cause the leaves to become scorched. 

What is the difference between Sansevieria zeylanica and Sansevieria laurentii? 

 Sansevieria zeylanica and Sansevieria laurentii (Variegated snake plant) are two different varieties of the Sansevieria plant. Sansevieria zeylanica is a tall, upright plant with long, sword-like leaves that are dark green with lighter green horizontal stripes.  

It is a hardy plant that is easy to care for and can tolerate a wide range of light and humidity levels. Sansevieria Laurentii, on the other hand, has similar long, sword-like leaves, but they are edged in yellow, giving the plant a striking appearance.  

It is also a hardy plant that is easy to care for, but it may require slightly lighter than the zeylanica variety to maintain its vibrant yellow edges. While these two varieties of sansevieria are similar in many ways, their differences in appearance make them unique and popular choices for indoor plants. 

What are the characteristics of a mother-in-law plant? 

This mother-in-law plant has long, sword-shaped leaves that are typically green with lighter green or white stripes. The leaves grow upright from a central base and can reach up to three feet in height. The plant can also produce small white flowers on a long stalk, although this is rare when grown indoors.

This snake plant is a hardy that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions, including low light and high humidity. It is also known for its air-purifying qualities, making it a great choice for improving indoor air quality. 

Is mother-in-law's tongue plant poison? 

Sadly, the ASPCA warns that these plants are poisonous to dogs and cats and that ingesting them could result in vomiting, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal upset. However, the plant's leaves can be sharp and pointed, so it is important to handle the plant with care to avoid injury. 

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Filter Reviews:
H
09/10/2021
Harold

Received the plant and this variety is very amazing

A
02/25/2021
Antonio

Fantastic! This is a superb plant

CA
05/16/2023
Charlotte A.
United States United States

5 stars �

Excellent experience. Plant arrived very quickly and in excellent shape. I was impressed with the packaging! I will definitely purchase from this nursery again!!

Planet Desert  Review

'Sansevieria zeylanica' Mother-in-Law's Tongue-Snake Plant

sku: 1450

2 reviews
Regular price$ 14.99
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Height: Height:

Please note: All Landscape Ready plants that are in a 6-inch pot or larger WILL NOT come with a pot as it will be shipped bare root.

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If you live in a cold climate and are expecting temperatures below 40 degrees within the next five days after placing your order, we highly recommend adding a heat pack to your order. If you do not order a heat pack, we do not send one with your order.

BUY HEAT PACKS HERE

**FREE HEAT PACK WITH ORDERS OVER $50 before taxes and shipping- BY REQUEST ONLY, PLEASE MAKE A NOTE ON YOUR ORDER.

To prevent plants from freezing while in transit, orders placed for areas with extreme severe freezing temperatures will be held for shipment until it is safe to ship.

Plants that are in 3.5" pots and smaller will be shipped in its pot to prevent any damage to the roots. Any plant that is 6" and larger WILL NOT come with a pot as it will be shipped bare root.

Depending on the species and season, you will receive a very similar plant to the one in the picture. It may or may not be blooming at the time of your purchase.

We ship via USPS Priority Mail, and we calculate the shipping cost based on the weight and volume of your purchase. Care instructions are included in every package you order. Please allow us up to 3 business days to process your order. Depending on your location, we will ship the plants on a certain day to avoid transit time during weekends or holidays. If you wish to receive your order on a specific date, or have special instructions, please add a note on your order. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact us at any time.

  • Description
  • Features

Hey there! Did you know that the 'Sansevieria zeylanica,' commonly referred to as the mother-in-law tongue plant or snake plant, and very similar to the Sansevieria trifasciata. This evergreen perennial plant is very popular among gardeners for its easy-to-care nature. 

This mother-in-law plant with its unique sword-shaped leaves with wave-like horizontal patterns in creamy white flowers, it's no wonder why people call it "mother-in-law’s tongue," sometimes also known as Ceylon bowstring hemp. But this mother-in-law snake plant tends to be tall, upright plant with long, sword-like leaves that are dark green with lighter green horizontal stripes compared to the Sansevieria trifasciata. This stemless perennial blooming beauty can grow up to 2.5 feet tall and 4 inches wide. 

Originally from India and Sri Lanka, this evergreen plant thrives in bright light to partial shade, making it perfect for any indoor space. This is one of the few houseplants that release oxygen at night instead of during the day. How cool is that? Not only does this adorable plant purify the air by removing harmful pollutants like formaldehyde and xylene, but it also adds a fresh burst of oxygen. At the same time, you sleep, making it an excellent addition to your bedroom oasis. 

And don't worry if you're not an experienced gardener - we've got all the tips and tricks you need to care for your Sansevieria zeylanica. 

Watering Needs 

Like other succulents, the Sanseveria zeylanica is drought-tolerant, and doesn't require much watering. You shouldn't water the soil until it has completely dried out. During the winter, this indoor plant goes dormant and requires less water. While during the spring and summer, when it is actively growing, it will require a lot of water. 

Watch for signs of dehydration in your succulent, such as a pale discoloration and the leaves starting to shrivel. This indicates that it's consuming the water stored in its interior. Both under and overwatering can be detrimental to your snake plant, so you must ensure you apply the right amount of moisture to keep them healthy and happy. 

Light Requirements 

This mother-in-law tongue plant is one of the most popular indoor plants as it looks cool and is easy to care for; the best choice is to provide it with as much light as possible. To ensure the succulent thrives, provide 4-6 hours of bright, indirect, but can also tolerate low light conditions. On the other hand, prolonged exposure to strong, direct sunlight can be harmful. 

A window with lots of light is a good idea. If you keep it in low light, your Sansevieria zeylanica may develop a dark green hue. 

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs 

This snake plant favors very airy, sandy soil that drains well. Planting them in ordinary soil will result in compacted roots, stunted growth, and, most likely, root rot. Instead, make or buy a well-draining potting mix, or ideally, use our specialized potting mix that contains organic mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your succulent to thrive. 

When it comes to fertilizers, organic fertilizers with an equal ratio of 5-10-5 (NPK) also last longer and keep your soil alive by adding other beneficial compounds and microbes that encourage plant health and nutrient absorption. So, skip those harsh chemicals (too much fertilizer) and give your tropical plants some love with some awesome organic fertilizer! 

Hardiness Zones & More 

The mother's tongue plant can withstand brief periods of frost but does best in sunny, warm climates. Generally, these are hardy plants that can be grown in the garden in USDA zone 9 - 11.  

A succulent tends to live for many years and grows slowly. Planting them in the spring after the weather warms up is the ideal time for this beauty. 

So, the Sansevieria zeylanica snake plant is quite a hardy plant that is suitable for beginners to grow in the garden and as houseplants. Their growth rate is slow, and they tend to last for many years. 

Bloom Season spring and summer
Bloom Season Summer
Botanical Name Sansevieria zeylanica
Common Name Mother-in-law tongue plant, Bowstring hemp
Dormancy winter
Family Asparagaceae
Flower Color pale green or greenishwhite
Flower Color Pale green, Greenish white
Genus Sansevieria
Growth Habit Rosettes
Growth Rate Slow
Hardiness Zone 9, 10, 11
Mature Size 1824 in. (4560 cm)
Mature Size 4 ft. tall, 2 ft. wide
Native Area South East Asian Region
Native Area West Africa
Plant Type Perennial succulent
Propagation By divisions, leaf cuttings
Resistance 50°F
Resistance Drought tolerant, pest resistance, disease resistant, heat tolerant
Soil PH 6.5, Acidic, Neutral
Soil Type specialized succulent potting mix
Special Features Air purifying plant
Sun Exposure Full sun, partial shade
Toxicity Mild toxic to humans, mild toxic for pets(Keep away from children)
Watering Needs Low

Pests & Common Problems of Mother-in-Law's Tongue-Snake Plant

Sansevieria zeylanica is durable and simple to grow. It doesn't happen very often for you to have problems with it. Let's go over the ones that might appear! 

Only two pests, mealybugs and spider mites, frequently attack the mother-in-law plant. Both insects are sucking pests that consume the plant's leaf juices. Both can make the healthy leaves unappealing, despite the fact that they are unlikely to spread diseases. It is critical to eliminate pests as soon as they appear. 

For mealybugs: To get rid of them, simply dab the insects with a cotton swab dipped in 70% isopropyl rubbing alcohol. Until they are gone, repeat this procedure every week. 

For scale insects: Using a pair of heavy gloves, you can remove scale insects from the plant.  

Furthermore, too much water or poorly drained soil can develop root rot. Sansevieria zeylanica, like the snake plant and other Sansevieria species, is mildly toxic and should not be consumed. 

Mother-in-Law's Tongue-Snake Plant FAQs

How do you take care of Sansevieria Zeylanica? 

Sansevieria zeylanica is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to take care of. This mother-in-law plant prefers bright indirect light, a well-drained potting mix, is hardy in USDA zones 9–11, and requires minimal watering. Be careful not to overwater it, as this can cause the roots to rot. It can also benefit from a light fertilizer once a year during the growing season.  

Sansevieria is a slow-growing plant, so it doesn't need to be repotted often. When you do repot it, use a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Overall, Sansevieria zeylanica is a great plant for beginners and experienced gardeners alike. 

Is the snake plant Sansevieria Zeylanica an indoor or outdoor plant?    

This snake plant is a versatile tropical plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors plants in bright, indirect light. It is popular for indoor spaces due to its air-purifying properties and ability to thrive in low light conditions. It is a relatively low-maintenance plant, so if you reside in USDA zones 9 to 11, you can grow it outdoors. 

Does Sansevieria zeylanica need full sun? 

Mother-in-law's tongue (Sansevieria zeylanica) prefers bright, indirect light but can also tolerate low light conditions. It can be grown in full sun, but it may require more frequent watering and may be more prone to leaf burn.

If you are growing Sansevieria indoors, it is best to place it near a window that receives bright, indirect light for several hours a day. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can cause the leaves to become scorched. 

What is the difference between Sansevieria zeylanica and Sansevieria laurentii? 

 Sansevieria zeylanica and Sansevieria laurentii (Variegated snake plant) are two different varieties of the Sansevieria plant. Sansevieria zeylanica is a tall, upright plant with long, sword-like leaves that are dark green with lighter green horizontal stripes.  

It is a hardy plant that is easy to care for and can tolerate a wide range of light and humidity levels. Sansevieria Laurentii, on the other hand, has similar long, sword-like leaves, but they are edged in yellow, giving the plant a striking appearance.  

It is also a hardy plant that is easy to care for, but it may require slightly lighter than the zeylanica variety to maintain its vibrant yellow edges. While these two varieties of sansevieria are similar in many ways, their differences in appearance make them unique and popular choices for indoor plants. 

What are the characteristics of a mother-in-law plant? 

This mother-in-law plant has long, sword-shaped leaves that are typically green with lighter green or white stripes. The leaves grow upright from a central base and can reach up to three feet in height. The plant can also produce small white flowers on a long stalk, although this is rare when grown indoors.

This snake plant is a hardy that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions, including low light and high humidity. It is also known for its air-purifying qualities, making it a great choice for improving indoor air quality. 

Is mother-in-law's tongue plant poison? 

Sadly, the ASPCA warns that these plants are poisonous to dogs and cats and that ingesting them could result in vomiting, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal upset. However, the plant's leaves can be sharp and pointed, so it is important to handle the plant with care to avoid injury. 

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Customer Reviews
4.7 Based on 3 Reviews
5 ★
67% 
2
4 ★
33% 
1
3 ★
0% 
0
2 ★
0% 
0
1 ★
0% 
0
Customer Photos
Write a Review Ask a Question

Thank you for submitting a review!

Your input is very much appreciated. Share it with your friends so they can enjoy it too!

Filter Reviews:
H
09/10/2021
Harold

Received the plant and this variety is very amazing

A
02/25/2021
Antonio

Fantastic! This is a superb plant

CA
05/16/2023
Charlotte A.
United States United States

5 stars �

Excellent experience. Plant arrived very quickly and in excellent shape. I was impressed with the packaging! I will definitely purchase from this nursery again!!

Planet Desert  Review

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