Sansevieria aethiopica

Mother-in-law's tongue is native to the understory of tropical forests, where it flourishes in full shade with occasional dappled sunlight and can acclimate to settings with minimal direct sun.

Mother-in-law's tongue does best in warm conditions and needs higher temperatures during the growing season to support growth and metabolic activity. It prefers plenty of sunlight, suitable moisture, and good air circulation. However, it can be damaged by very low temperatures and by overwatering. It's important to maintain a balance and to avoid extreme heat and excessively dry conditions as well.

For Mother-in-law's tongue, light applications of fertilizer once or twice a year during the growing season are adequate. Do not fertilize in winter and in summer when the plant is dormant. Use less fertilizer for plants that have been repotted and wait a couple of months after repotting before you start feeding. Fertilizing helps maintain healthy growth and promotes flowering.

When repotting a Mother-in-law's tongue, pick a pot slightly larger than the current one that has good drainage. Use a gritty, well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix. Gently remove the plant from its old container, brush off excess soil, and plant it at the same depth. Wait a few days before watering so any root damage can heal. Repot in spring or fall and place it in a brightly lit spot.