Sansevieria trifasciata ‘Laurentii’, commonly known as Mother-in-Law’s Tongue or Snake Plant, is one of the most popular and enduring indoor plants, famed for its extreme hardiness and striking appearance. It features thick, rigid, sword-shaped leaves that grow upright in a clump. The leaves are predominantly dark green with lighter green horizontal stripes, but its key characteristic is the bold, vertical band of golden-yellow that runs along the entire edge of each leaf. This plant is celebrated not only for its low-maintenance requirements but also for its air-purifying qualities, thriving on neglect and tolerating a wide range of indoor conditions.
Care Tips:
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Light: Extremely adaptable, thriving in conditions ranging from low light to bright, indirect light. The yellow edges will be brightest and most defined in good light, but it is one of the best plants for darker rooms. Avoid direct, harsh afternoon sun.
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Watering: Water sparingly. Sansevieria is a succulent and highly susceptible to rot if overwatered. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, particularly during winter. In hot summer months, water only when the pot feels light and the soil is bone dry.
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Soil: Requires a fast-draining potting mix, such as a succulent or cactus mix, to prevent water from sitting around the roots.
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Fertilising: Minimal feeding is needed. Apply a half-strength, balanced liquid fertiliser only once or twice during the spring and summer growing season.
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Maintenance: It is a very low-maintenance plant that rarely needs pruning. New pups (offsets) will emerge around the base, which can be separated to propagate new plants.
