Sansevieria zeylanica 'Bowstring Hemp' Floor Plant

Sansevieria zeylanica 'Bowstring Hemp' – Floor Plant

Striking, sculptural, and nearly indestructible — meet your new favorite low-maintenance statement plant. The Sansevieria zeylanica, commonly known as Bowstring Hemp or Snake Plant, features tall, upright sword-shaped leaves with silvery-green hues and subtle dark green striping. Its architectural form and hardy nature make it ideal for larger indoor spaces, offices, or bright corners in need of vertical greenery.

Native to Sri Lanka and southern India, this variety of snake plant is beloved for its air-purifying qualities, drought tolerance, and ability to thrive in low-light conditions.

Plant Profile

• Botanical Name: Sansevieria zeylanica
• Pronunciation: san-suh-VEER-ee-uh zay-LAN-ih-kuh
• Common Names: Bowstring Hemp, Ceylon Snake Plant, Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, Devil’s Tongue
• Family: Asparagaceae
• Native Range: Sri Lanka and southern India
• Plant Type: Evergreen succulent foliage

Care Guide

• Care Level: Easy – Perfect for beginners
• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but tolerates low light
• Water: Allow soil to dry out completely before watering; very drought-tolerant
• Humidity: Tolerates any humidity level
• Temperature: 55–85°F; avoid frost
• Soil: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix
• Feeding: Monthly with diluted houseplant fertilizer in spring and summer
• Pruning: Remove yellowing or damaged leaves at the base
• Propagation: Division of rhizomes
• Growth Habit: Upright, can grow 2–4 feet tall indoors
• Toxicity: Toxic to pets and humans if ingested

📌 Why We Love It

• Low Maintenance: Practically thrives on neglect
• Air Purifier: Helps remove indoor toxins
• Bold Design Element: Elevates any space with its sculptural form
• Great for Low-Light Corners: Adapts to nearly any lighting

🌱 Fun Fact

Historically, the fibrous leaves of Sansevieria zeylanica were used to make bowstrings—hence the name Bowstring Hemp. The plant's durability and strength were essential before synthetic fibers became common.

🔎 Looking for Something Smaller?

Browse our smaller Sansevieria zeylanica listing for a compact version that fits perfectly on desks, shelves, or windowsills.