Why Is Snake Plant Called Mother-In-Law’S Tongue – The Surprising
Have you ever glanced at your stunning, architectural snake plant and chuckled at its rather… pointed nickname? You’re not alone. It’s one of the most popular houseplants in the world, loved for its resilience and modern look, yet it carries a name that makes you raise an eyebrow.
You’ve probably wondered, “Why is snake plant called mother-in-law’s tongue?” It seems like a strange, slightly cheeky name for such a beloved green companion. You want to know the story, but you also want to make sure you’re giving this incredible plant the best possible care.
I promise, by the end of this guide, you’ll not only know the fascinating story behind the name but also feel completely confident in your ability to grow a thriving, beautiful snake plant. We’ll uncover the folklore, explore its many benefits, and walk through a complete care guide filled with practical, easy-to-follow advice.
Let’s dive in and unravel the mystery of this famously named plant!
What's On the Page
- 1 The Story Behind the Name: Why Is Snake Plant Called Mother-in-Law’s Tongue?
- 2 More Than Just a Name: Unpacking the Many Benefits of Your Snake Plant
- 3 Your Complete Mother-in-Law’s Tongue Care Guide
- 4 Propagating Your Plant: Sharing the Love (or the Spikiness!)
- 5 Troubleshooting Common Problems with Your Mother-in-Law’s Tongue
- 6 Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Snake Plant Care
- 7 Frequently Asked Questions About the Mother-in-Law’s Tongue
- 8 Go Forth and Grow!
The Story Behind the Name: Why Is Snake Plant Called Mother-in-Law’s Tongue?
So, let’s get right to the heart of it. The primary reason for this memorable moniker comes down to two things: the plant’s appearance and a healthy dose of old-fashioned, tongue-in-cheek humor.
The leaves of the Dracaena trifasciata (formerly Sansevieria trifasciata) are famously long, upright, stiff, and pointed. Their shape is quite literally tongue-like. Combine that with their sharp, piercing tips, and you have a visual that, for some, humorously evokes the stereotype of a mother-in-law having a sharp, cutting tongue.
It’s a bit of botanical folklore, a playful jab that has stuck around for generations. Of course, we know this is just a stereotype, but the name has proven to be incredibly memorable and is used worldwide!
What Are Its Other Names?
While “Mother-in-Law’s Tongue” is the most famous nickname, this plant has collected a few others over the years, each highlighting a different characteristic:
- Snake Plant: This is its most common and friendly name, referring to the beautiful, mottled patterns on the leaves that resemble snakeskin.
- Viper’s Bowstring Hemp: This name sounds dramatic, but it’s rooted in history! The strong, fibrous nature of the leaves was once used to create bowstrings.
- Saint George’s Sword: In Brazil, it’s often associated with the Sword of Saint George, a figure who, according to legend, fought and slew a dragon. The plant’s sword-like shape lends itself perfectly to this powerful image.
More Than Just a Name: Unpacking the Many Benefits of Your Snake Plant
Beyond its interesting nicknames, there are incredible benefits of why is snake plant called mother-in-law’s tongue, making it more than just a decorative piece. It’s a hardworking addition to any home.
First and foremost, it’s an air-purifying powerhouse. A famous NASA Clean Air Study identified the snake plant as one of the best for removing toxins like formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene from the air. It’s one of the few plants that converts CO2 into oxygen at night, making it a perfect bedroom companion.
Secondly, it is the epitome of a low-maintenance plant. Seriously, this plant thrives on neglect. If you’re a new plant parent or someone with a less-than-green thumb, this is the plant for you. It tolerates low light and infrequent watering like a champ.
Finally, its strong vertical lines and diverse variegation make it a stunning architectural element in home decor. It fits seamlessly into minimalist, modern, or bohemian aesthetics, adding a touch of effortless green style.
Your Complete Mother-in-Law’s Tongue Care Guide
Ready to give your plant the best life possible? This is your complete why is snake plant called mother-in-law’s tongue care guide. Following these best practices will ensure your plant not only survives but truly thrives.
Getting the Light Right
One of the snake plant’s biggest selling points is its tolerance for low light. While it can survive in a dim corner, it won’t necessarily flourish. If you want to see strong growth and vibrant colors, give it a home with plenty of bright, indirect sunlight.
Think of a spot near an east-facing window or a few feet back from a south or west-facing window. Too much direct, harsh sun can scorch the leaves, so be mindful of intense afternoon rays.
The Golden Rule of Watering
If there is one way to kill a snake plant, it’s with too much love—specifically, too much water. This is the most crucial part of its care. These plants are succulents, meaning they store water in their leaves and are extremely susceptible to root rot.
The golden rule is this: let the soil dry out completely between waterings. Don’t just check the top inch; the soil should be dry all the way to the bottom of the pot. In my experience, this means watering every 3-6 weeks, depending on the season, light, and humidity in your home. When in doubt, wait another week.
Perfect Soil and Potting
Proper soil is non-negotiable for a happy snake plant. They need a soil mix that drains exceptionally well to prevent water from sitting around the roots. Your best bet is a pre-made cactus or succulent soil mix.
You can also make your own by mixing regular potting soil with perlite, pumice, or coarse sand to improve aeration and drainage. And please, I beg you, use a pot with a drainage hole! It’s the best insurance policy against overwatering.
Temperature and Humidity
Snake plants are as tough as they come regarding temperature. They are happy in typical household temperatures, generally between 60-85°F (15-29°C). They are not frost-tolerant, so keep them away from cold drafts or windows in the winter.
They also don’t require any special humidity. Average household humidity is perfectly fine for them, so no need for humidifiers or pebble trays.
To Feed or Not to Feed
Snake plants are not heavy feeders. Over-fertilizing can do more harm than good. A good rule of thumb is to feed them with a balanced, all-purpose liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength once or twice during the growing season (spring and summer).
Do not fertilize in the fall or winter when the plant’s growth naturally slows down.
Propagating Your Plant: Sharing the Love (or the Spikiness!)
One of the most rewarding aspects of owning a snake plant is how easy it is to propagate. This is how to why is snake plant called mother-in-law’s tongue can multiply in your home—by creating new plants from your existing one! It’s a fantastic way to get free plants for yourself or to give as gifts.
Propagating by Division
This is the quickest and most reliable method. When you repot your plant, you may notice it has produced “pups” or new offshoots. You can simply separate these pups from the mother plant, ensuring each new section has some roots attached, and pot them up individually.
Propagating by Leaf Cuttings
This method is a bit of a science experiment and so much fun! Here’s how:
- Using a clean, sharp knife, cut a healthy leaf from the base of the plant.
- You can place this whole leaf in water or cut it into several 2-3 inch sections. Important: Remember which end is the bottom! It will only root from the bottom end.
- Let the cuttings sit out for a day or two to callus over. This helps prevent rot.
- Place the bottom end of the cutting(s) in a jar of water or plant it directly into moist soil.
- Be patient! It can take several weeks or even months for roots and new pups to appear.
Troubleshooting Common Problems with Your Mother-in-Law’s Tongue
Even the toughest plants can have off days. Here are a few common problems with why is snake plant called mother-in-law’s tongue and how to solve them. Don’t worry—most are easy fixes!
- Yellowing Leaves: This is almost always a sign of overwatering. The base of the plant may also feel mushy. Immediately stop watering, check for root rot, and allow the soil to dry out completely.
- Mushy Base & Root Rot: This is the advanced stage of overwatering. You’ll need to act fast. Remove the plant from its pot, cut away any black, mushy roots, and repot in fresh, dry soil.
- Wrinkled Leaves: While overwatering is the biggest threat, wrinkled leaves can be a sign of underwatering. If the soil is bone-dry and has been for a long time, give it a thorough watering.
- Pests: Snake plants are very pest-resistant, but they can occasionally attract spider mites or mealybugs. You can treat these by wiping the leaves with a damp cloth or using a gentle insecticidal soap.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Snake Plant Care
Being a “Greeny Gardener” is also about being mindful of our planet. Adopting a sustainable why is snake plant called mother-in-law’s tongue approach is easy and impactful. These eco-friendly practices ensure your gardening hobby is as green as your plants.
Consider using peat-free soil mixes to protect vital peat bog ecosystems. Terracotta pots are a great eco-friendly choice as they are made from natural clay and are porous, which also helps prevent overwatering—a win-win!
For watering, try collecting rainwater. It’s free of the chlorine and minerals often found in tap water. When it comes to pest control, avoid harsh chemicals. A simple solution of water and a drop of dish soap is often enough to deter common pests, making for a truly eco-friendly why is snake plant called mother-in-law’s tongue care routine.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Mother-in-Law’s Tongue
Is the Mother-in-Law’s Tongue plant toxic to pets?
Yes, it is mildly toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. It can cause gastrointestinal upset like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. While rarely fatal, it’s best to keep the plant out of reach of curious pets.
How often should I repot my snake plant?
Snake plants actually enjoy being slightly root-bound, so you don’t need to repot them often. A good rule of thumb is to repot every 2-5 years, or when you see roots growing out of the drainage holes or the pot starting to crack.
Why are the tips of my snake plant turning brown and crispy?
Brown, crispy tips are usually a sign of inconsistent watering or low humidity, though the latter is rare for these plants. It can happen if the plant goes from bone-dry to drenched repeatedly. Try to maintain a more consistent (though still infrequent) watering schedule. You can simply snip off the brown tips if they bother you.
Can a snake plant flower?
Yes, it can! It’s a rare and wonderful sight. When a snake plant is happily “stressed” (often meaning it’s a bit root-bound and getting plenty of light), it can send up a tall stalk of small, fragrant, greenish-white flowers. Consider it a sign that you’re doing a great job!
Go Forth and Grow!
So, now you know the full story. The next time someone asks you why is snake plant called mother-in-law’s tongue, you can share the tale of its sharp leaves and even sharper wit. But more importantly, you know it’s a plant of many names and even more benefits.
We’ve covered everything from its air-purifying magic to the exact steps for care and propagation. We’ve even gone over some why is snake plant called mother-in-law’s tongue tips for troubleshooting and sustainable gardening.
Whether you call it a Snake Plant, Viper’s Bowstring Hemp, or yes, a Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, one thing is certain: this resilient, stylish, and beneficial plant is a true gem. Embrace its quirky name and grow it with the confidence of an expert. Happy gardening!