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Sansevieria Mikado Fernwood; Mother-in-law's tongue; Viper's bowstring hemp
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If you’re forgetful about watering, you’ll love him. He’s very drought tolerant and likes to dry out between drinks.
He’s very chilled about light levels. He’ll be happy in any light conditions, but loves bright, indirect light.
If you want to be very nice, give him a liquid feed (diluted to half strength) once in spring and again in summer.
Botanical name
Sansevieria fernwood mikado
Nickname
Snake plant, Mother-in-law’s tongue, Viper’s bowstring hemp
Plant type
Evergreen perennial, indoor
Air purifying
Yes
Plant height (including pot)
40-50cm
Pet/baby safe
Mildly toxic if ingested
Nursery pot size
12cm
This is a smaller cousin to our other snake plants, Zey and Susie.
Like our other snake plants, Mikey made of tough stuff. He grows primarily across Africa, in very dry conditions. He is used to places so hot that during the day he keeps all his pores completely closed, so he doesn’t lose any water to evaporation. When the temperature cools at night, the pores open, releasing all the oxygen they have been holding in.
His toughness makes it a dream of a house plant. If you’re a beginner, this is the one for you. Mikey thrives on neglect. He can live in any light conditions and doesn’t care if you forget to water him. The only thing he hates is too much water. He will also benefit from a monthly feed with liquid fertiliser in spring and summer. For more information, read our complete guide to snake plant care.
Low-key as it is, the snake plant is treasured all over the world. Across Africa, it’s associated with Ogun, the deity of war, and Oya, the bringer of storms. In China, it’s the ‘tiger’s tail orchid’; in Brazil, the ‘sword of Saint George’. Basically, this plant is pretty famous.
Did you know?
Another nickname for this plant is ‘viper’s bowstring hemp’, because its strong fibres were once used to make strings for bows.
£75.00
Fits pots 28-32cm
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Fits pots 12.5-15cm
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Fits pots 15-17cm
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Fits pots 20-25cm
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