Snake Plant, Bowstring Hemp
sansevieria bacularis
Also known as: ["Mother-in-law's Tongue","Stiff Sword"]
Overview
A hardy succulent with tall, cylindrical leaves that are green with lighter variegation.
Benefits & Perks
["air purifying","low maintenance","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Genus: | Sansevieria |
| Botanical Name: | Sansevieria bacularis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright location or outdoor in sheltered, sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with sand or perlite for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or when leaves show damage.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only damaged or yellowing leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
bright indirect light to full sun
Rotate plant monthly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid dark corners.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure soil dries out completely between waterings.
Soil
well-draining, sandy potting mix
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; topdress with sand for extra drainage.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–85°F (15–29°C). Tolerates mild temperature fluctuations but prefers stable conditions year-round.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; use room heaters/fans cautiously; monitor temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem.
- Cut below a node.
- Let callus for a day.
- Plant in medium.
- Water lightly.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F), humid, and bright indirect light with good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., cactus mix with perlite) or water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), pot, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; keep soil lightly moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut leaves at the base with a clean, sharp tool; avoid cutting into healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and encourage new growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Sanitize tools; cut at base; dispose of debris; inspect for pests.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Sansevieria bacularis prefers being slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture but avoiding waterlogged soil. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water every 2–3 weeks during spring and summer, reducing to once a month in fall and winter. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to commercial potting mix; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress), leaf tips browning (heat stress), stunted growth, or leaf drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes root rot due to reduced water uptake, and may lead to leaf discoloration.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, avoid cold drafts, and reduce watering during cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or dry out; growth may slow due to excessive water loss.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently but carefully.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse tools after use.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are also susceptible to the toxic effects of Sansevieria bacularis, particularly due to saponins. Ingestion can result in gastrointestinal irritation, leading to symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. While generally not life-threatening, the plant can cause significant discomfort to cats.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Sansevieria bacularis can lead to gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of saponins. Symptoms may include drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. The plant's toxicity can cause discomfort and distress, but severe systemic effects are rare unless large quantities are consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicSansevieria bacularis contains saponins, which can cause gastrointestinal irritation and discomfort upon ingestion. The plant's toxic effects are primarily localized to the digestive system, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The severity of symptoms may vary depending on the amount consumed and individual sensitivity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Sansevieria bacularis toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Sansevieria bacularis?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Can Sansevieria bacularis purify the air?
A: Yes, it is known for its air-purifying qualities, particularly in removing toxins like formaldehyde.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light to full |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks, allowing so |
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