The Snake Plant is a popular houseplant, prized for its architectural foliage and resilience. Despite its common presence, many people wonder about its identity when it is referred to by different names, such as Mother-in-Law’s Tongue. The confusion arises from the multiple common aliases given to this specific plant.
Nomenclature Clarified: The Answer and Scientific Identity
The short answer is yes: the Snake Plant and the Mother-in-Law’s Tongue are common names for the exact same plant species. This species is known for its upright, stiff, sword-like leaves that grow directly from the base. The botanical identity of this plant has recently been the source of significant confusion, even among experts.
For nearly 200 years, this plant was universally known by the scientific name Sansevieria trifasciata. This classification was established based on morphological analysis, which involves grouping plants by their shared physical characteristics. However, modern genetic analysis revealed a much closer relationship between Sansevieria species and a different genus.
Molecular phylogenetic studies, which analyze plant DNA, confirmed that the Sansevieria genus was genetically nested within the Dracaena genus. Botanists officially reclassified the plant around 2017. Therefore, the correct scientific name for the plant formerly known as Sansevieria trifasciata is now Dracaena trifasciata. While many nurseries and enthusiasts still use the older, more familiar name, the official scientific identity has shifted.
Decoding the Common Names
The common names assigned to Dracaena trifasciata are descriptive nicknames based on its distinctive appearance. The name “Snake Plant” is derived from the light and dark green cross-banding patterns on the leaves, which resemble reptile skin. This visual association led to the widespread adoption of the name globally.
The alternate name, Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, references the plant’s sharply pointed tips and the long, thin shape of the leaves. This name is a humorous cultural reference, alluding to the perceived “sharpness” or pointed nature of a tongue. Other aliases, such as Saint George’s Sword or Viper’s Bowstring Hemp, also exist. The “Bowstring Hemp” name refers to the tough, pliable fibers once extracted from the leaves for making ropes and bowstrings in its native West Africa.
Simple Care and Maintenance Guide
The popularity of Dracaena trifasciata is largely due to its tolerance for neglect, making it an excellent choice for new plant owners. Care focuses primarily on avoiding overwatering. As a succulent, the plant stores water in its thick, fleshy leaves and requires the soil to dry out completely between watering sessions.
An infrequent watering schedule, such as every two to four weeks, is sufficient, with less water needed during the dormant winter months. Using a well-draining potting mix, ideally a cactus or succulent blend, is recommended to prevent water retention around the roots. Pots must have drainage holes to ensure excess water can escape, protecting the plant from root rot.
While the Snake Plant can survive in lower light, it thrives best in bright, indirect sunlight. Excessive shade may slow growth and cause leaf variegation to fade. The plant prefers average indoor temperatures, ideally ranging between 70°F and 90°F, and should be kept away from cold drafts or temperatures below 50°F. Fertilization is rarely necessary, but a diluted, balanced houseplant fertilizer can be applied once every four to six weeks during the spring and summer growing season.