About
Sansevieria trifasciata 'Craigii', the mother-in-law's tongue 'Craigii', is an erect, rhizomatous perennial to 1.2 m with pointed, lance-shaped, stiffly fleshy, grey-green leaves with bold, yellow, vertical stripes. Mature plants may occasionally produce spikes of spidery, greenish flowers. A striking variegated cultivar for a sunny conservatory or large windowsill.
About the genus
Sansevieria are stemless, erect, rhizomatous, succulent perennials with evergreen, ovate or strap-shaped, leathery leaves often attractively marbled, and short spikes of small, fragrant, tubular, greenish-white flowers. Excellent and easy-care houseplants tolerating low light and neglect.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Full sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1B
Plant details
Plant typeHouseplants
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesHouseplants
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationUnder glass, grow in 2 parts peat-free, loam-based potting compost and 1 part grit. Although tolerant of shade, growth is best in bright indirect light. In growth, water moderately and apply a half-strength balanced liquid fertiliser monthly; water sparingly in winter. Pot on only when pot bound. Leaf growth may stop if leaf tips are damaged. See Sansevieria and houseplant cultivation for further advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by division in spring. Root leaf sections with bottom heat from spring to autumn. Offspring from varieagted cultivars will lack variegation if raised from leaf cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free