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Sansevieria zeylanica

Ceylon bowstring hemp

An upright perennial to 80cm, forming a clump of stiff, fleshy, sword-shaped leaves, each bearing irregular bands of dark and pale green. Mature plants may occasionally produce spikes of spidery, greenish flowers

Other common names
Indian bowstring hemp
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full shade
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H1B
Botanical details
Family
Asparagaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Tufted
Potentially harmful
Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
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

Name status

Correct

How to grow

Cultivation

Under 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

Propagation

Propagate by removing suckers or dividing in spring. Root leaf sections with bottom heat from spring to autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Houseplants
  • Low Maintenance
  • Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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