About
Sansevieria zeylanica, the Ceylon bowstring hemp, is an upright perennial to 80 cm forming a clump of stiff, fleshy, sword-shaped leaves with irregular bands of dark and pale green. Mature plants may occasionally produce spikes of spidery, greenish flowers. A rewarding and easy-care houseplant or conservatory plant.
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 hardinessH1C
Plant details
Plant typeHouseplants
HabitTufted
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 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 removing suckers or dividing in spring. Root leaf sections with bottom heat from spring to autumn
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free