How to Grow and Care for Lawyers Tongue Plant

The Lawyer’s Tongue Plant, also known as the Snake Plant or Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, is a visually striking houseplant. Its scientific name is Dracaena trifasciata, though it was formerly Sansevieria trifasciata. Known for being exceptionally hardy and low-maintenance, its tolerance for a range of conditions makes it a suitable choice for beginners.

Lawyer’s Tongue Plant Care

Light

While tolerant of low-light conditions, this plant performs best in bright, indirect sunlight. An ideal location is near an east-facing window or a few feet from a south or west-facing window where the light is filtered. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to burn or their colors to fade. If the leaves lose their vibrant color or appear limp, it may indicate a need for more light.

Water

The most common mistake in caring for this plant is overwatering. As a succulent, it stores water in its leaves and is highly susceptible to root rot if the soil remains waterlogged. Use the “drench and dry” method, watering thoroughly only when the soil has completely dried out. In spring and summer, this may be every two to four weeks, decreasing to every four to six weeks in fall and winter.

Soil

A well-draining soil mix is necessary to prevent root rot. Commercial cactus or succulent potting mixes are excellent choices, or you can create your own by combining two parts standard potting soil with one part perlite or coarse sand. This type of soil ensures that roots have adequate air circulation and that excess water can escape.

Temperature & Humidity

This plant thrives in indoor household temperatures, preferring a range between 60°F and 85°F (15°C to 29°C). It is not demanding about humidity and does well in the average dry air of most homes. Keep the plant away from drafts or direct airflow from heating or air-conditioning vents.

Fertilizer

The Lawyer’s Tongue Plant is a light feeder and does not require frequent fertilization. During the spring and summer growing season, apply a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer at half-strength every four to six weeks. Cease fertilization during the fall and winter, as the plant enters a dormant period and does not need the extra nutrients.

Propagating a Lawyer’s Tongue Plant

Creating new plants from an existing Lawyer’s Tongue Plant is a straightforward process with two primary methods. Division is the quickest way to get an established plant, while leaf cuttings can produce many new plants from a single leaf.

Propagation by division is best performed on mature plants, often during repotting. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently separate the root cluster of underground stems, called rhizomes. Use a clean knife to divide the rhizomes, ensuring each new section has at least three leaves and a healthy root system. Plant these new divisions in their own pots.

For leaf cuttings, use a sterile knife to cut a healthy, mature leaf from the base of the plant. This leaf can be placed in water or cut into two-inch sections. Allow the cut ends to dry and form a callus for a day or two before planting them about half an inch deep in a moist potting mix to prevent rot. Roots begin to form within a couple of months.

Common Problems and Solutions

The most frequent problem is root rot, caused by overwatering. Signs include yellowing leaves that become mushy at the base and a foul odor from the soil. To resolve this, remove the plant from its pot, trim away all black, mushy roots with a sterile tool, and repot the healthy portion in fresh, dry soil.

Pests such as spider mites and mealybugs can infest the plant. Spider mites appear as tiny red or black dots, while mealybugs look like small, white, cottony clusters on the leaves. These pests feed on the plant’s sap, leading to yellowing leaves and stunted growth. Treat infestations by wiping the leaves with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or by spraying with an insecticidal soap or neem oil solution.

Toxicity Information

The Lawyer’s Tongue Plant is mildly toxic if ingested by pets or humans. All parts of the plant contain saponins, which can cause gastrointestinal upset. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

While ingestion is not fatal, it causes significant discomfort. In cats, additional symptoms may include drooling and dilated pupils. Place the plant out of reach of curious pets and children. If you suspect ingestion has occurred, contact a veterinarian or physician for guidance.