Sansevieria Varieties
Snake Plants at a Glance
Sansevierias, commonly known as snake plants, are distinctive houseplants celebrated for their adaptability, low-maintenance requirements, and unique aesthetic appeal. Native to Africa, Madagascar, and southern Asia, they exhibit long, upright leaves that range from green to nearly black in color, often adorned with unique patterns. Sansevierias thrive in a variety of light conditions, from bright, indirect sunlight to low light spaces. Their watering needs are minimal, as they store water in their thick, waxy leaves, similar to succulents. Whether you’re a seasoned plant lover or a beginner, Sansevierias are a remarkable addition to any plant collection.
The History of Snake Plants
Sansevieria has a history as rich and varied as its collection of over 70 different species. The name ‘Sansevieria’ pays homage to Raimondo di Sangro, an 18th-century prince from San Severo, Italy, who was a patron of the sciences. However, the plant’s utilization dates back far beyond this period. In Africa, it was used in the production of fibers, and it continues to be used in some regions for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
The Sansevieria was introduced to Europe in the 18th century and gained popularity as an ornamental plant due to its exotic appearance and hardiness. It then made its way to North America through trans-Atlantic trade, where it was used as packing material in ships, a testament to its resilience.
Sansevieria trifasciata 'Laurentii'
Sansevieria trifasciata 'Laurentii' is a popular indoor plant renowned for its air-purifying properties. Native to West Africa, it stands out with its upright, broad, sword-shaped leaves, elegantly variegated with green centers and golden-yellow edges. This evergreen perennial can reach a height of up to 4 feet. It is an exceptionally hardy plant, thriving in a range of light conditions from full sun to low indirect light, and preferring dry conditions, which makes it an excellent choice for beginner gardeners.
Sansevieria trifasciata ‘Night Owl’
Sansevieria trifasciata 'Night Owl' is a relatively new cultivar in the long history of snake plants, known for its appealing aesthetic and easy care. The 'Night Owl' variety emerged within the horticultural industry due to a persistent demand for attractive, low-maintenance indoor plants.
Recognizable by its succulent, sword-like foliage, 'Night Owl' stands out with leaves that have a uniquely attractive silver-blue color, adding a modern touch to interiors. It shares the robust qualities of its snake plant relatives, being adaptable to a wide range of light conditions and requiring infrequent watering. Its adaptability and distinct visual appeal quickly made 'Night Owl' a favorite among both novice and experienced indoor gardeners.
Sansevieria sayuri
Sansevieria sayuri, commonly referred to as Snake Plant 'Sayuri', is a distinctive cultivar in the Sansevieria genus. Native to Africa, 'Sayuri' is admired for its long, flat, sword-like leaves with a graceful arch. The leaves, reaching up to 3 feet, are an elegant silver-green hue, creating a striking, modern aesthetic.
Not only does 'Sayuri' serve as an appealing ornamental plant, it is also renowned for its resilience and adaptability. It can withstand a variety of light conditions, from low light to bright indirect light, and requires only infrequent watering, being highly drought-tolerant.
Sansevieria masoniana 'Whale Fin'
Sansevieria masoniana 'Whale Fin' is a uniquely shaped, robust houseplant that offers an architectural element to any indoor space. Named after its huge, single leaf that resembles a whale's fin, this plant is a standout in the Sansevieria family. The 'Whale Fin' features dark green, mottled leaves that can reach up to 4 feet in height, creating a striking silhouette. Originating from the Democratic Republic of Congo, it was named after Maurice Mason, a British plant collector who first propagated the plant in the 1960s. It's extremely hardy and drought-tolerant, making it a perfect choice for novice plant owners or those with a busy schedule.
Sansevieria zeylanica
Sansevieria zeylanica, also known as Ceylon bowstring hemp, is a perennial plant native to Sri Lanka (formerly known as Ceylon) and India. Belonging to the Asparagaceae family, this succulent is renowned for its upright, sword-like leaves, which are marked with cross-hatched patterns. The leaves are deep green, edged with a lighter shade, and can reach up to 2.5 feet in height, imparting a modern architectural aesthetic to any indoor setting.
First scientifically described by Swedish botanist Carl Peter Thunberg in the late 18th century, Sansevieria zeylanica has had a long history of utilization and admiration. The plant's strong fibrous leaves were traditionally used by indigenous communities to make bowstrings and ropes, hence its common name.
Sansevieria trifasciata 'Black Gold'
Sansevieria trifasciata 'Black Gold', also known as Black Gold Snake Plant, is a unique cultivar of the species Sansevieria trifasciata. Renowned for its tall, robust sword-like leaves with golden yellow edges, the plant's foliage is dark green and marked with horizontal bands, which appear almost black in certain lighting, giving it its distinctive name.
Overall, the Sansevieria trifasciata 'Black Gold' cultivar blends the historical resilience and practicality of the Sansevieria species with modern aesthetics, making it a fascinating addition to any indoor plant collection.
Sansevieria trifasciata 'Black Coral'
Sansevieria trifasciata 'Black Coral', also commonly known as snake plant or mother-in-law's tongue, is a cultivated variety of the species native to West Africa. Characterized by its dark green, almost black foliage marked by striking gray-green bands, the 'Black Coral' is a unique and highly attractive cultivar.
The species Sansevieria trifasciata was first described in the 18th century and has been a popular houseplant since the 20th century due to its striking foliage and resilience. The 'Black Coral' variety, however, is a more recent introduction, bred for its darkly dramatic coloring and compact form, adding a new level of interest to the species.
Sansevieria trifasciata 'Jaboa'
The Sansevieria trifasciata 'Jaboa', with its roots deeply intertwined with the diverse ecosystems of West Africa, stands as a remarkable embodiment of nature’s intricate design and enduring resilience. This unique variant showcases leaves of rich, deep green adorned with mesmerizing, wavy horizontal bands, creating a visual rhythm that adds a dynamic touch to any space.
Whether serving as a stylish centerpiece or adding texture to a botanical arrangement, 'Jaboa' enriches its surroundings with its distinctive appearance and tranquil presence. By welcoming 'Jaboa' into your space, you embrace a piece of the lush, vibrant landscapes of its origins, inviting a dialogue between the refined and the wild, between enduring elegance and the dynamic vitality of the natural world.
Sansevieria trifasciata 'Whitney'
Introducing the Sansevieria trifasciata 'Whitney', a stunning hybrid variety of the ever-popular snake plant. Whitney's compact form showcases gorgeously patterned, rosette-forming leaves that grow upright, reaching about 12-15 inches in height. Its foliage exhibits a rich, dark green color with distinctive light green crossband patterns and creamy white edges, adding a striking contrast to any interior decor.
Often reffered to as the Silver Flame Snake Plant, this plant is a treat for those looking to add a touch of the exotic to their indoor plant collection. Despite its sophisticated appearance, Whitney is famously hardy. It thrives in a range of lighting conditions from low light to bright indirect light, making it a perfect addition to any room. Drought-resistant and low-maintenance, it can tolerate neglect and still look stunning.
Sansevieria trifasciata ‘Hahnii Golden’
Introducing the Sansevieria trifasciata 'Hahnii Golden', an extraordinary variant of the snake plant family that captivates with its unique coloration and form. This plant displays a stunning rosette arrangement of thick, succulent leaves that exhibit rich, dark green centers, bordered by golden yellow edges. The 'Hahnii Golden' only reaches up to 12 inches in height, making it a perfect fit for tabletops, desks, or windowsills.
This plant's visual appeal is matched by its robust nature. It thrives under a variety of light conditions, from low to bright indirect light, and tolerates irregular watering, reflecting the hardiness of its snake plant lineage.
Sansevieria trifasciata 'Bantel's Sensation'
Sansevieria trifasciata 'Bantel's Sensation' is a captivating variety of the well-known snake plant, originally hailing from West Africa. This distinctive cultivar sets itself apart with its tall, slender, and upright leaves, each marked with an intricate pattern of white vertical stripes against a deep green backdrop. This contrast imparts 'Bantel's Sensation' with an elegant and contemporary aesthetic that seamlessly complements both modern and traditional interiors.
The plant's namesake, Gustav Bantel, discovered this unique variant, bringing attention to its refined and chic appearance amidst other Sansevieria species. While its origins lie in the tropical and subtropical regions of West Africa, 'Bantel's Sensation' has been embraced by plant enthusiasts worldwide for its adaptability and resilience.
Sansevieria cylindrica
Sansevieria cylindrica, also known as the Cylindrical Snake Plant or African Spear, is a compelling succulent that originates from Angola. Unlike its more common snake plant relatives, which feature flat leaves, this particular species showcases tubular, spear-like leaves that point skyward, adding an unexpected geometric element to indoor and outdoor spaces. The long, round leaves can grow several feet in length and are adorned with a green-grayish hue, lending a minimalistic yet impactful aesthetic.
Sansevieria cylindrica isn't just a visual spectacle; it also has cultural significance. In some regions, its fibrous leaves are traditionally used in making bowstrings, tying, and weaving. Whether you're interested in the plant for its intriguing form, ease of care, or its historical and cultural relevance, Sansevieria cylindrica is a captivating addition to any plant collection.
Sansevieria fernwood 'Mikado'
The Sansevieria Fernwood 'Mikado' is a striking representation of botanical beauty and resilience. Originating from West Africa, this splendid plant boasts sleek, cylindrical leaves that interlock in a harmonious dance, creating an intriguing pattern akin to a modern, green sculpture of intertwined swords. Its intricate design and vibrant green hue make it a sophisticated and eye-catching addition to any interior.
Known for its robust nature, the 'Mikado' effortlessly adapts to various environments and lighting conditions, showcasing its versatility and enduring charm. Whether displayed in a sun-soaked room or a dimly lit corner, it retains its vibrancy and structural elegance, requiring minimal care and attention.
Sansevieria trifasciata 'Futura Superba'
The Sansevieria trifasciata 'Futura Superba', originating from the subtropical regions of West Africa, is a captivating embodiment of botanical elegance and resilience. It features stiff, upright leaves adorned with striking horizontal bands of contrasting light and dark green, creating a splendid geometric aesthetic. Each leaf is meticulously edged in golden-yellow, adding a dash of vibrant contrast to its overall appeal.
This unique variety is renowned for its adaptability and minimal care requirements, reflecting the robustness of its West African heritage. It thrives in various light conditions and is forgiving of irregular watering, making it a versatile companion for both novice plant enthusiasts and seasoned green thumbs.
Sansevieria trifasciata 'Hahnii Black Gold'
The Sansevieria trifasciata 'Hahnii Black Gold', hailing from the lush landscapes of West Africa, is a spectacular variant of the snake plant, blending architectural form with botanical elegance. It captivates with its lush, deep green leaves formed in a distinctive rosette pattern, each one dramatically outlined in a band of radiant gold, creating a visual symphony of color and texture.'Hahnii Black Gold' is a conversation starter, its bold color contrast and structured silhouette adding a touch of the exotic to interiors, whether minimalist or opulent. It acts as a living piece of art, a constant reminder of the vibrant and diverse ecosystems of its origins, enriching spaces with its presence.
Sansevieria trifasciata 'Hahnii Green'
The Sansevieria trifasciata 'Hahnii Green', native to the tropical realms of West Africa, is a distinguished variant of the renowned snake plant, bringing a wave of lush vibrancy and structural elegance to any interior space. Its distinctive rosette of rich, emerald green leaves emerges gracefully from the soil, creating a spectacular spiral of verdant splendor that adds a refined, botanical aesthetic to your surroundings.
The compact and symmetrical growth of this plant makes it a versatile decor element, suitable for adorning a variety of spaces, from desks to shelves to corners, infusing them with a subtle tropical charm. Whether you desire a singular focal point or a harmonious complement to your plant ensemble, 'Hahnii Green' effortlessly elevates the ambiance with its lush foliage and sophisticated silhouette, embodying the lush vitality and enduring spirit of its tropical origins.
Sansevieria trifasciata 'Hahnii Honey Bunny'
The Sansevieria trifasciata 'Hahnii Honey Bunny', a charming variant originating from the abundant regions of West Africa, is a stunning representation of nature’s artistic prowess. It flaunts a delightful rosette of dense, variegated leaves, featuring lush green centers bordered by creamy, honey-toned margins, a playful and sweet visual symphony reminiscent of its enchanting name.
Its vibrant hues and unique form make it a delightful focal point, subtly infusing spaces with a sense of enchantment and the rich vitality of the tropics. Whether you’re looking to brighten a space or add a touch of botanical whimsy, 'Hahnii Honey Bunny' brings to you the enduring charm and exotic allure of its subtropical origins in a beautifully compact form.
Sansevieria trifasciata 'Hahnii Jade'
The Sansevieria trifasciata 'Hahnii Jade', hailing from the tropical and subtropical regions of West Africa, is a sophisticated embodiment of lush tranquility and enduring beauty. This delightful variant distinguishes itself with compact, symmetrical rosettes of lustrous, jade-green leaves, creating an aura of calm elegance and refined botanical charm.
Known for its adaptability and resilience, 'Hahnii Jade' offers the convenience of minimal care, thriving gracefully in a myriad of environments, reflecting the robustness inherent to its exotic origins. Its structured, verdant foliage makes it a versatile piece, capable of enhancing a variety of spaces—from countertops to corners—with a refreshing touch of the tropics.
Sansevieria trifasciata 'Hahnii Silver Frost'
The Sansevieria trifasciata 'Hahnii Silver Frost', a graceful variant with origins in the lush, vibrant realms of West Africa, stands as a testament to the exquisite beauty and resilient spirit of its lineage. It mesmerizes with its frosty silver and green variegated leaves, arranged in elegant, compact rosettes, creating a visual symphony of color and form reminiscent of a delicate, botanical sculpture.
Beyond its aesthetic allure, 'Hahnii Silver Frost' is renowned for its adaptability and minimal care requirements, thriving effortlessly in diverse environments, a reflection of the robust nature inherent to its tropical roots. Its architectural elegance and unique, icy coloration make it a versatile addition to any space, infusing interiors with a touch of sophisticated charm and a whisper of the exotic.
Sansevieria trifasciata 'La Rubia'
The Sansevieria trifasciata 'La Rubia', originating from the lush, varied environments of West Africa, is a splendid variant of the renowned snake plant, offering a fusion of elegance and vitality. This particular beauty presents with striking, slender leaves adorned with intricate patterns and a harmonious blend of green and yellow hues, each leaf reaching skyward in a graceful dance of color and form.
'La Rubia' is more than a visual marvel; it's a beacon of adaptability and robustness, prospering with ease in varied conditions and demanding little in terms of care, echoing the resilience of its native landscapes. Its distinctive variegation and elegant silhouette make it a versatile and stylish addition, capable of transforming spaces with a burst of tropical charm and sophisticated tranquility.
Sansevieria trifasciata 'Lauren'
Sansevieria trifasciata 'Lauren' emerges from the vibrant ecosystems of West Africa as a distinguished representative of botanical elegance and robust vitality. This exquisite plant graces spaces with its beautifully arching leaves, each one meticulously striped in a harmony of lush green and creamy yellow, weaving a tapestry of visual delight. Each leaf stands as a vibrant echo of its tropical lineage, turning any space into a serene botanical sanctuary.
Sansevieria trifasciata 'Moonshine'
The Sansevieria trifasciata 'Moonshine' is a mesmerizing variant originating from the lush, varied landscapes of West Africa. It unfolds in a spectacle of broad, silvery-green leaves, each one rising gracefully, encapsulating the serene luminosity of moonlight within its foliage. The leaves, with their subtle shimmer, create a serene and ethereal atmosphere, reminiscent of tranquil, moonlit nights.
Whether it stands alone, casting its moon-like glow, or blends harmoniously with other botanicals, 'Moonshine' enriches its environment, offering a daily interaction with the calming beauty and enduring spirit of the natural world.
Sansevieria trifasciata 'Robusta'
Sansevieria trifasciata 'Robusta', hailing from the lush, energetic landscapes of West Africa, is an embodiment of nature’s enduring strength and refined elegance. This exquisite variant distinguishes itself with broad, dark green leaves, decorated with subtle, lighter striations, creating a rich tapestry of textures and tones. Each leaf stands tall, a majestic testament to its robust character and architectural splendor.
Sansevieria 'Zulu'
The Sansevieria grandis 'Zulu' is a captivating blend of nature's raw elegance and structural beauty. Native to the diverse habitats of Africa, this plant displays broad, paddle-shaped leaves with pronounced channels, evoking the rich textures and patterns of the landscapes from which it hails. Its deep green foliage, subtly edged in a lighter hue, radiates a calm, earthy ambiance. The 'Zulu' stands out with its pronounced, upright growth, making it a striking focal point in any space.
Sansevieria francisii
Sansevieria francisii, often referred to as the Snake Plant or Spear Sansevieria, is a uniquely structured succulent known for its striking appearance and resilient nature. Hailing from the arid regions of Kenya, this plant embodies the strength and adaptability of its homeland, making it an ideal addition for both novice plant enthusiasts and seasoned gardeners.
Characterized by its upright, spear-shaped leaves marked with distinctive patterns of dark green cross-banding and longitudinal lines, the Sansevieria francisii stands out in any setting. Its tubular leaves, growing in a rosette arrangement, can reach up to 6 inches in height, providing a vertical visual interest to any indoor space.