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Sansevieria
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snake plant
snake plant Snake plant, or mother-in-law's tongue (Dracaena trifasciata, formerly Sansevieria trifasciata).

Sansevieria

former plant genus
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Article History

Sansevieria, former genus of about 70 species of flowering plants in the asparagus family (Asparagaceae), now placed in the genus Dracaena based on phylogenetic data. The group is native primarily to tropical Africa. Many species have water-resistant leaf fibres that are sometimes used in the manufacture of ropes and for bowstrings, and several are grown as ornamentals for their attractive foliage.

Mother-in-law’s tongue, or snake plant (Dracaena trifasciata, formerly Sansevieria trifasciata), is a popular houseplant with yellow-striped leaves and tiny pale green scented flowers. It is sometimes sold as Sansevieria.

The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica This article was most recently revised and updated by Melissa Petruzzello.