33” Sansevieria Zeylanica

Bios

With their swollen stems and bodies full of water, Succulents have evolved to survive the harshest arid conditions. Many plant families, including cactus, are associated with succulents. So while all cactus are succulents, not all succulents are cactus. Succulents make very good indoor plants and do best in hot, low humidity areas. While most plant lovers will admire the beauty and variety that succulents offer, this species is particularly suited for people who are looking for low maintenance plants.

Buying and Caring for Sansevieria Zeylanica

Buying: Like with any variety of succulents, look for any signs of overwatering. The soil should be dry to touch. Also, inspect the plant carefully for any signs of rotting or other damage. The leaves should be spiky and fresh with no signs of dehydration or damage.

Locating: A Sansevieria can do well in bright to low light areas, but it’s best to set the plant up indoors in your home or office. While they can handle the sun, they do better under indirect light or under artificial fluorescent lights like the ones inside an office.

Potting: Sansevierias have small root structures so you don’t need to re-pot the plant every year. Once in 3-4 years is ideal. While repotting, they require soil that’s sandy, porous and one that provides excellent drainage and aeration. The right type of soil will need to dry quickly after you water it. A good mix of 20:40:20:20 of coco-peat, coarse sand, compost and perlite is ideal for these plants.

Watering: Having evolved in some of the most challenging environments, Sansevierias have adapted to live with little or no water for long periods of time. A few drops of water once every week is all they need. Overwatering could result in rot setting into the root and eventually, the plant dying.

Fertilising: Sansevierias grow slowly, hence require very little in terms of feeding. If you must fertilise, give them some organic liquid fertiliser once or twice a year. Dilute it in water as described on the pack and add a little to each pot as part of your watering routine. If you are using a chemical fertiliser do ensure that you keep it away from the plant and its tiny roots.

Sansevierias are extremely low-maintenance plants that do best when they’re given less attention and water. In fact, many new gardeners care for them too much killing them with kindness. They are plants that thrive on neglect.

Did you know

Many interior designers are known to look at Sansevierias as sculptures; essential design elements for interior design.