Species viper's bowstring hemp

viper's bowstring hemp

Sansevieria trifasciata

Also Known As - mother-in-law's tongue
Viper's bowstring hemp (Sansevieria trifasciata) is a perennial evergreen herb native to western Africa. Its stiff, up-right leaves can reach up to 40 inches long and often feature dark bands of green overlaying a whitish background. The plant's thin, leathery foliage is topped by tall spikes of white flowers. It is a relatively low maintenance plant that is renowned for its air purifying qualities as it helps to clean the air of toxins. It is also known for its resilience, able to survive low levels of sunlight and infrequent watering. Its ease of care makes it a great choice for those looking for a hardy houseplant that will purify the air in their home.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Greenwood Cuttings

Hardiness Zone:

10 - 12

Flowers:

Greenish-white Flowers In Summer

Sun:

full sun,part sun/part shade

Soil:

Well-drained

Fruits:

green,yellow,brown,white Fruits Ready In Summer

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,yellow

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Indoors:

Yes

watering

Viper's bowstring hemp prefers to be watered moderately (about every 7-10 days) in the summer months and infrequently (every 3 weeks or so) in the winter months. When you do water, water thoroughly until it runs out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. Allow the top several inches of soil to dry out in between waterings. Be sure not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.

sunlight

The plant should receive up to 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Ideally, Viper’s bowstring hemp should receive bright, indirect light for the rest of the day. This can be achieved by placing the plant near a south- or west-facing window. If this is not possible, it is recommended to use artificial light sources, such as grow lights, CFLs, and even fluorescent lights, for at least 4 hours each day. Alternatively, the plant may be kept outdoors throughout the summer, as long as it is shaded from the direct midday sun.

pruning

Viper's bowstring hemp (Sansevieria trifasciata) does not require frequent pruning. Pruning should be done if the plant is becoming overgrown and the height needs to be reduced. Pruning should be done during the spring months, trimming off the top portion of the foliage. Removing the top few inches of growth will not damage the plant, but it will help keep it manageable and attractive.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Sansevieria trifasciata typically starts flowering in the late spring or early summer months, usually between May and July.

Starts Flowering

Sansevieria trifasciata typically starts flowering in the late spring or early summer months, usually between May and July.

Harvest Fruit

The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Sansevieria trifasciata is usually in the months of June and July.

Hardiness Map