Sansevieria Trifasciata 'laurentii'

Sansevieria trifasciata

Mother-in-law's tongue, Snake Plant

Also known as

Dracaena trifasciata

Sansevieria Trifasciata 'laurentii', photo 1

Key information

Description

An evergreen, rhizomatous succulent perennial, with erect, elongated leaves characterised by variegated edges or streaks – which vary depending on the variety – giving them high ornamental value; it may produce racemose inflorescences bearing small, fragrant flowers. Given its climatic requirements, it is well suited as a houseplant, provided it is kept in a warm, dry environment with plenty of light and subjected to irrigation that prevents waterlogging.

Varietal description

A variety of Sansevieria suitable as a houseplant, where it adds a unique decorative touch with its lance-shaped, grey-green variegated leaves, characterised by cream-coloured longitudinal stripes. It requires bright sun exposure, away from direct sunlight.

Scientific Classification

Division

Angiospermae

Class

Monocotyledons

Family

Asparagaceae

Order

Asparagales

Genus

Sansevieria

Species

trifasciata

Origin and History

Origin and Diffusion

A species native to the tropical biomes of southern Nigeria and central-western tropical Africa, it was introduced to Europe in 1750. Today, it is found in numerous varieties that differ in the length and colour of their foliage.

curiosity and special features

As well as being highly decorative, Sansevieria can help purify the air of many of the air pollutants that may be present in indoor living or working spaces.

Main features

Lifespan

Perennial evergreen herb.

Suggested planting locations

Due to its climate requirements, it is recommended as a plantfor pots and planters indoors

Plant height

The plant height ranges from 0.5 to 1.5 m, depending on the growth of its lanceolate leaves.

Inflorescence

It has a raceme-like inflorescence bearing small, fragrant flowers.

Flowering period

It flowers from late spring to summer for a duration of 90 to 120 days.

Leaf

The leaves, which are lanceolate, linear and tapering to a point at the apex, lend the variety great ornamental value.

Leaf color

The leaf blade is solid-coloured with transverse stripes and creamy-yellow margins.

Growth

A variety with medium to vigorous growth.

Plant habit

The habitus assumed by the leaves is erect.

Conditions required

Use

It is one of the most common varieties of Sansevieria trifasciata used for
indoor ornamental use

Ideal climate and temperature

The ideal temperature is between 18 and 30 °C. The viable temperature range is between 3 and 45 °C

Soil/medium

Use a light, well-draining substrate for green plants.

sun exposure

It adapts to various levels of sun exposure indoors; however, it is best placed infull sunlight, sheltered from direct sunlight, particularly during the hottest part of the day. If placed in the shade, growth slows down and the leaves tend to lose their characteristic variegation.

Maintenance

Cultivation is fairly straightforward, requiring amoderate level of management effort overall, provided that the correct light levels and a suitable ambient temperature are maintained.

Hardiness

A variety with medium to high hardiness.

cultivation tips

Some specific cultivation tips for the ‘Laurentii’ variety:

Avoid over-watering Keep the growing medium dry at low temperatures

pH

It requires a substrate pH between 6.0 and 6.8.

Cures and Adversities

Irrigation

Allow the soil/medium to dry out between waterings, pouring lukewarm water directly into the pot. Irrigate sparingly to avoid waterlogging. Reduce irrigation during the winter months.

Fertilization

In spring and summer, apply a liquid fertiliser directly to the moist substrate, diluted in the irrigation water, specifically for indoor green plants. Do not exceed the frequency and dosage. Good fertilisation makes the plant consistent and with good colouration, and encourages the development of more leaves.

pruning

Does not require pruning; remove any damaged leaves.

potting

Spring repotting is necessary if the pot is too small for the plant to grow properly.

Reproduction/Propagation

Propagation is by division of the rhizome.

Edibility and Toxicity

Edibility for humans

Non-edible.

Human toxicity

The flower is toxic. Do not ingest any part of the plant.

Expert's advice

advise 1

Avoid water stagnation by allowing the substrate to dry between watering to prevent rot. Wipe leaves with a cloth moistened with water to remove dust.

Profile curated by Walter Zoccarato.