The sansevieria, commonly known as “mother-in-law’s tongue” or “snake plant“, is a popular and versatile houseplant. Native to the tropical regions of Africa and Asia, this succulent plant is loved for its ease of cultivation, resistance and the numerous benefits it offers to the home environment.
In this article, we will explore five compelling reasons to have a sansevieria at home and provide valuable tips for making it flourish.
1. Air Purification: One of the main reasons why sansevieria has become a popular choice for indoor decor is its ability to purify the air. This plant is known to absorb harmful chemicals such as benzene, formaldehyde, and trichlorethylene, which may be present in your home from cleaning chemicals, paints, and building materials. By having a sansevieria in your home, you improve air quality and create a healthier environment for the whole family.
2. Adaptability: Sansevieria is an incredibly adaptable plant that thrives in a wide range of environmental conditions. It is able to survive in low light conditions and can tolerate periods of drought. This characteristic makes sansevieria an ideal choice for those who do not have a green thumb or for those who live in apartments with little natural light.
3. Ease of care: If you are a beginner in the art of gardening or have a busy schedule that doesn’t allow you to dedicate much time to plants, sansevieria is the perfect choice. This plant requires little maintenance and can survive even if it is forgotten for a while. Simply water your sansevieria occasionally and place it in a location with indirect light, and your plant will grow happily and healthily.
4. Aesthetics: In addition to its health benefits and ease of cultivation, sansevieria adds a touch of elegance to home decor. With its long, lanceolate leaves, often variegated with stripes of eye-catching colours, this plant adapts to any decor style, whether modern or traditional. You can choose between different varieties of sansevieria, or even create combinations of plants for an even more captivating visual effect.
5. Calming effect: Having a sansevieria in your home can also help reduce stress and promote a sense of calm. Scientific studies have shown that the presence of plants can help reduce anxiety and improve mood. The sansevieria, with its dark green and shiny leaves, adds a touch of serenity and nature to the home environment.
How to make sansevieria flower
Although sansevieria is admired primarily for its foliage appearance, it can occasionally produce fragrant and rather charming flowers. Here are some tips to encourage your sansevieria to flower:
- Maintain adequate light exposure: Place the plant in a location with bright indirect light. Sansevieria grows best with at least a few hours of indirect sunlight per day.
- Provide a warm environment: Sansevieria prefers moderate temperatures and cannot tolerate extreme cold. Make sure the ambient temperature is above 15°C.
- Limit watering: Sansevieria is a succulent plant and can survive for a long time without water. Water it only when the soil is completely dry, usually every two or three weeks.
- Fertilize sparingly: Provide a balanced, diluted fertilizer every two to three months during spring and summer to support growth and flowering.
- Patience: Flowering sansevieria can take some time and not all plants will flower. Be patient and continue to follow a consistent care routine.
In conclusion, having a sansevieria in your home offers numerous advantages, including air purification, ease of care and attractive design.
With some precautions and patience, it is also possible to enjoy the delicate flowers of this unique plant. Choose a variety you like and enjoy the many benefits sansevieria can bring to your home.