How to Grow and Care for Sansevieria Trifasciata Laurentii

The Sansevieria trifasciata ‘Laurentii’, also known as the Striped Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, is a popular snake plant cultivar. It features architectural, sword-shaped leaves that grow upright. The deep green leaves are defined by creamy-yellow vertical stripes along their edges. This variegation and its resilience make it a favorite for houseplant enthusiasts.

Essential Care Guide

Light

‘Laurentii’ performs best in bright, indirect sunlight to maintain its yellow margins. An east-facing window is a good placement, but it can also be set back from a south or west-facing window. While tolerant of low-light, its growth will slow and the variegation may fade in shadier conditions. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sun, which can scorch the leaves.

Water

As a succulent, this plant stores water in its leaves and is susceptible to overwatering, which can cause root rot. Use the “soak and dry” method by allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. When watering, drench the soil until water runs through the drainage holes and discard any excess from the saucer. The plant requires less frequent watering during the winter when its growth slows.

Soil

A well-draining potting medium is required for Sansevieria. Commercial cacti and succulent mixes work well, or you can amend standard potting soil with perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage. Avoid heavy soils or mediums with high amounts of peat, as they can retain too much moisture and lead to root rot.

Temperature and Humidity

Sansevieria trifasciata ‘Laurentii’ is not demanding about temperature or humidity and is well-suited to indoor environments. It thrives in temperatures between 60°F and 80°F (15°C – 27°C). Protect it from frost and temperatures below 50°F (10°C), as well as cold drafts. Standard household humidity is sufficient, so no misting is required.

Fertilizer

This plant has minimal fertilizer needs and grows well in lean conditions. During the spring and summer growing season, apply a balanced houseplant fertilizer diluted to half-strength once a month. Cease fertilizing during the fall and winter when the plant is dormant.

Propagation Methods

Propagating ‘Laurentii’ by division is the only way to ensure the new plants retain the yellow-edged variegation. This is best done during repotting by separating the small offshoots, or “pups,” from the main root ball. Make sure each new division has some roots attached before potting it in a separate container with fresh soil.

While propagation is possible through leaf cuttings, the new plants will revert to the all-green Sansevieria trifasciata. The yellow margins will be lost. For this reason, leaf cuttings are not recommended if you want to reproduce the ‘Laurentii’s’ appearance.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Root rot from overwatering is the most common problem. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, a soft or mushy base, and a foul odor from the soil. To fix this, remove the plant from its pot, trim away any dark and mushy roots with a clean tool, and repot it in a new container with fresh, dry, well-draining soil.

Wrinkled or drooping leaves can indicate either overwatering or underwatering. Check the soil to diagnose the issue. If the soil is damp, the drooping is an early sign of root rot and you should stop watering. If the soil is completely dry, the plant is thirsty and should be watered.

Pests are not a common issue, but occasionally spider mites or mealybugs may appear. If pests are spotted, wipe the leaves with a cloth dipped in a solution of water and mild insecticidal soap or rubbing alcohol. Regularly dusting the leaves helps prevent infestations.

Repotting and Growth Habits

Sansevieria plants prefer to be slightly root-bound and, as slow growers, only need repotting every 2-3 years. It is time for a new container when roots emerge from the drainage holes, water runs straight through the pot, or the plant becomes large enough to crack its container.

Select a new pot that is only one size larger in diameter. When repotting, gently remove the plant, inspect the roots for rot, and place it in the new container with a well-draining soil mix. Wait about a week before watering to allow any damaged roots to heal.

The ‘Laurentii’ cultivar has an upright growth habit and can reach a height of 2 to 4 feet. Its slow growth rate means it will not quickly outgrow its space, allowing it to remain in the same location for several years. Be aware that damaging the tips of the leaves can stunt the plant’s vertical growth.