Snake Plant, Mother-in-Law's Tongue, St. George's Sword
Sansevieria trifasciata · Asparagaceae (Asparagus family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, evergreen succulent leaf emerging directly from an underground rhizome
Shape
Lanceolate to linear, stiffly erect, sword-shaped leaves tapering to a point
Margin
Entire, completely smooth
Arrangement
Basal rosette, growing in upright clusters directly from subterranean rhizomes
Venation
Parallel venation running longitudinally along the leaf blade, though veins are mostly obscured by thick succulent tissue
Key Features
Stiffly upright, sword-shaped succulent leaves with distinct horizontal dark green banding; absence of visible stems; emergence directly from soil via rhizomes
Description
The snake plant is a hardy perennial succulent known for its striking architectural form. It features stiff, vertical, sword-shaped leaves that rise directly from a creeping rhizome. The foliage displays dramatic transverse bands of contrasting green shades, making it a favorite for modern interior design.
Habitat
Arid, rocky, and semi-desert conditions with well-draining soil and bright, indirect to direct sunlight; highly adaptable as an indoor houseplant
Native Range
Native to tropical West Africa from Nigeria east to the Congo, widely cultivated globally as an ornamental indoor plant