La sansevieria fernwood seems to have become the fashionable plant. It is increasingly present in more homes and also in many workplaces. Something that is due both to its unique appearance and how easy it is to care for it.
If you think that indoor plants are not your thing and you never manage to get them off, with this succulent you will change your mind. Follow our advice, and you will have a beautiful plant that will accompany you for years.
Sansevieria fernwood, the plant that NASA likes
That's right, the fernwood sansevieria is one of the most resistant indoor plants that exist. We could say that killing her is almost impossible. But, in addition, it is highly valued because NASA itself has recognized the great capacity of this small living being to purify the air.
It is perfect to have in the workplace and, as it releases oxygen even at night, it can be a great bedroom companion.
The fernwood variety is just one of the many that we find within the genus of sansevieria, although they all have a series of common features. If you look at its shape, you will surely not be surprised that this plant is also known by the nicknames tiger's tongue, mother-in-law's tongue, St. George's sword and snake plant.
Where does this plant come from?
We are dealing with a variety originating from the regions of West africa. It is precisely the climate of its birthplace that allows this plant to resist long periods of drought and withstand high temperatures, even surviving with few nutrients.
Precisely because it is so resistant, it has become very popular worldwide and, today, It is one of the most fashionable indoor plants.
Everything you need to know about Sansevieria Fernwood
As we have pointed out, within the sansevieria genus there are many different varieties that share common traits, but in the case of fernwood we can highlight:
- Sword-shaped leaves. The leaves of this succulent are rigid and grow vertically, developing in the shape of a rosette. They are narrow and lanceolate, as well as pointed, which is why they resemble a sword.
- Colour. The leaves of this variety are a dark green that is almost grayish. However, the color may vary slightly depending on the conditions to which the plant is exposed (hours of light, nutrients, humidity, etc.).
- Cross marks. One of its peculiarities is that lighter bands that extend horizontally can appear on the leaves, creating a very distinctive pattern.
- Compact size. These plants grow slowly, and their habit is always compact. In optimal conditions, the leaves can reach 45 centimeters in length.
What care does Sansevieria Fernwood need?
This is a plant that requires some minimal attention. With a little care it gives us all its beauty, so we are going to try to give it the maintenance it needs so that it always looks beautiful.
Bright, indirect light
Although succulents are plants accustomed to heat, It is not good for them to receive direct sunlight for many hours, since its leaves could burn.
The ideal location for this species is one where it receives bright indirect light for several hours a day. It can adapt to locations where it does not receive much light, but in this case its growth will slow down.
Be careful with the cold
This is a variety that develops best in spaces with moderate temperatures that range between 15º and 24º C. Although it can withstand more heat if it is not exposed directly to the sun for many hours.
What it does not tolerate are low temperatures. If you want to keep your sansevieria fernwood healthy and beautiful, Make sure that it does not have to withstand temperatures below 10º C.
Irrigation conditions
Before we have already mentioned that this plant is very resistant to drought. This does not mean that you have to forget about watering completely, but it is recommended that you space it out as much as possible, especially in winter.
During the spring and summer the sansevieria fernwood is growing and needs a little more water. But it is enough with provide a little once a week, or even every ten days.
Planting medium
Your sansevieria will be perfect in a special substrate for succulents, because it will provide it with the nutrients it needs and good drainage. However, it is not necessary that you resort to a special substrate, you can plant the mother-in-law's tongue in a universal substrate, as long as you add a little sand to improve drainage.
Also, keep in mind that it is necessary that the pot has a drainage hole to expel excess water from irrigation. If you have had the foresight to place a small saucer under the container, remove it after each watering so that no water accumulates.
On the other hand, try choose ceramic pots for this and other succulents. This material helps water evaporation and prevents the risk of roots rotting.
Regarding the size of the pot, Make sure it is not much larger than the diameter of the plant, since otherwise more moisture than necessary could accumulate.
If you see that the plant has outgrown its pot or shows signs of stress, it is time to consider a transplant.
Cleaning and pruning
Due to its vertical growth, Sansevieria fernwood leaves can accumulate dust. This not only makes them ugly, but prevents the plant from breathing properly. The good thing is that it has an easy solution.
Regularly remove dust accumulated on the leaves with a damp cloth or sponge. Gently go over the surface and the plant will be as good as new.
If there are leaves that have become ugly or have died, you can cut them directly from the base so that their presence is not a hindrance to the plant.
Sansevieria fernwood is the ideal houseplant for those who have no luck with plant care, or do not have the time for it. Because with minimal attention it grows strong and beautiful. You just have to find a good location and get the watering right.