Sansevieria zeylanica
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Sansevieria zeylanica

Ceylon bowstring-hemp

Tier 2 Difficulty: medium Water: low Toxicity: high
Water every
14 days
Hardiness
Zone 9–11
Click count
266
Observations
34

Description

Source: leafsnap

Sansevieria zeylanica: The Perfect Low-Maintenance Houseplant Sansevieria zeylanica, commonly known as Ceylon bowstring hemp or snake plant, is a popular ornamental plant that belongs to the Asparagaceae family. Native to Sri Lanka and India, it has gained widespread popularity as a houseplant due to its attractive appearance and low maintenance requirements. This hardy plant features long, sword-shaped leaves that grow upright from its base. The dark green leaves are accentuated with light green horizontal stripes running along their length. They can reach up to 3 feet in height and approximately 2 inches in width. Sansevieria zeylanica is well-suited for indoor environments, even those with limited natural light, as it can tolerate low light conditions. Additionally, it requires minimal watering because it stores water in its thick, fleshy leaves, making it an ideal choice for busy or novice plant owners. Beyond its visual appeal, Sansevieria zeylanica offers significant health benefits. It helps purify indoor air by removing toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene, contributing to a healthier living space. In conclusion, Sansevieria zeylanica is an excellent choice for those seeking an easy-to-care-for houseplant that enhances both the aesthetic and air quality of any indoor environment.

Care Guide

💧 Water Every 14 days

After the earth has dried out, water it again. Once the earth has dried out, water your plants thoroughly. Stop watering potted bowstring hemp when you see water pouring out of the pot's base. Water in-ground plants gently and thoroughly to a depth of at least 3-4 inches. Watering frequency might be reduced throughout the winter months. During the winter, the plant stays dormant and requires less water. During its vigorous development period in the spring and summer, it will need more water.

Suggested frequency: Every 14 days
☀️ Light
🌡️ Temperature

As a tropical plant, bowstring hemp is sensitive to cold temperatures. It can suffer leaf damage when exposed to temperatures below 50°F. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60°F and 75°F.

💨 Humidity dry (<40%)

This plant prefers dry conditions, so don't mist it. However, watering it less often can also thrive in higher humidity.

Humidity: dry (<40%)
🪴 Soil
🌱 Fertilizer
🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning

As a general rule, bowstring hemp does not need much pruning. If the leaves on the plant's outer fall over, cut them with a sterilized hori-hori knife or pruning shears. As the plant grows more compact in its container, one or two leaves will usually flop over. Use them as cuttings if the leaves are healthy. Otherwise, the only trimming required is the removal of dead or damaged leaves. This should be an uncommon occurrence. If the damage is just at the tip of a leaf, you may be able to simply clip it off. Remove it at the soil level if it runs the length of the leaf.

🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Snake plant is moderately toxic to people, dogs, and cats. If they ingest the plant, humans may suffer short-term symptoms including mouth pain, salivation, and some nausea. In rare instances, it can produce a dermatological reaction but is mainly toxic only if ingested. In cats and dogs, ingestion can cause excessive salivation, pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Characteristics

Plant Type
Evergreen perennial
Genus
Sansevieria
Family
Asparagaceae
Hardiness Zone
9-11

Tags (9)

Common Names (1)

en Ceylon bowstring-hemp