Snake plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) Care, Benefits, Toxic- PictureThis

Snake plant

Also known as: Viper's bowstring hemp

Snake plant can be considered a houseplant and an architectural display due to its sword-like leaves with bold striping patterns, which are distinctive and eye-catching. However, use caution with this plant because it is poisonous when ingested and can cause nausea, vomiting, and even swelling of the throat and tongue.

Scientific classification

Species

Snake plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)

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Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent, Herb

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

30 cm to 2 m

Plant Height

30 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

1.6 cm to 3 cm

Flower Size

Green

Fruit Color

Green, White

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Snake plant

Distribution of Snake plant

Distribution Map

Snake plant grows naturally in West-Central Africa, thriving in dry and rocky areas of that tropical zone. It has become popular worldwide as an ornamental garden and house plant, and has naturalized in tropical regions around the globe.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Roadsides, abandoned gardens, waste areas, disturbed sites, coastal environs, open woodlands, riparian vegetation, the margins of closed forests

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Environmental Protection Value

It can purify air and release negative ions.

Economic Value

Leaf fibers are strong and tough, and can be used for knitting.

Garden Use

Snake plant is an evergreen perennial commonly found in arid gardens of warm climates. It is prized for its attractive vertical variegated foliage that is easy to maintain. Its vertical growth and height mean that it is suitable for borders. Snake plant is used for Mediterranean gardens and rockeries. Plant with Blue Fescue or Jade plant for color contrast.

Symbolism

Long life, protection, luck, prosperity

Interesting Facts

Snake plant is a kind of herbaceous foliage plant that can purify the indoors. NASA scientists have found that it can release oxygen while absorbing carbon dioxide, increasing the concentration of ions in the air indoors. This can strengthen the function of the cerebral cortex and brain activity, stimulate and improve work efficiency, and improve the quality of sleep. Ions can also significantly dilate blood vessels, relieve vasospasm and reduce blood pressure. If you want these advantages list above, grow snake plant in your study and bedroom.

Name Story

Mother-in-law's tongue||Snake plant: This plant is commonly called "mother-in-law's tongue" or "snake plant", because of the shape and sharp margins of its leaves. It is also known as the "viper's bowstring hemp", because it is one of the sources for plant fibers used to make bowstrings.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Snake plant, including the following common varieties :

Snake plants 'Moonshine'Snake plant 'Hahnii'Snake plant 'Silver Flame'Snake plant 'Craigii'Snake plant 'Bantel's Sensation'Snake plant 'Golden Flame'Golden hahnii

Toxicity

Snake plant contains saponin chemicals that cause low-severity toxicity, leading to vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and excessive salivation upon ingestion. It poisons dogs moderately, causing upset stomach or red blood cell rupture. Cats should receive veterinary care if symptoms arise. Poisoning most often occurs from accidental ingestion, especially in children and pets due to its attractive appearance.

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Care Guide for Snake plant

Every 3 weeks

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from arid regions, snake plant is drought-tolerant and thrives with minimal moisture, requiring watering every three weeks. It prefers dry soil and can suffer from overwatering. Its succulent nature makes it ideal for low-humidity indoor environments, also contributing to air purification.

Fertilize: For snake plant, use a succulent-specific fertilizer at half strength during the growing season (spring and summer), applying every 3-4 weeks. Avoid winter fertilization to prevent overfeeding. Always apply to moist soil to enhance nutrient absorption and protect snake plant's roots from damage.

Pruning: Snake plant grows quickly. Promptly prune any yellow or dry old leaves to provide enough space for new growth and maintain an attractive appearance.

Propagation: Snake plant is resilient and adaptable, praised for air purification. Propagate using leaf cuttings: snip a healthy leaf, allow it to callus, and plant in well-draining soil with stable temperature and indirect light. Maintain consistent moisture, avoiding overwatering, as roots take weeks to develop.

Repotting: Repot snake plant every 2 years when roots crowd the pot, preferably in late winter. Use larger pots with well-draining soil, provide indirect light, and water sparingly post-repot to ensure health and resilience. Allow room for root expansion to support vitality.

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