Mother-in-law’s Tongue or Cow’s Tongue: Know Its Benefits and Properties
Mother-in-law’s tongue, also known as Sansevieria trifasciata, snake plant, or sometimes colloquially referred to as cow’s tongue, is a hardy, low-maintenance houseplant that’s more than just an aesthetic addition to your home. Native to West Africa, this striking plant features long, upright leaves with sharp, sword-like edges — hence the playful names.
But beyond its decorative value, mother-in-law’s tongue is packed with powerful health and environmental benefits that make it one of the best plants to keep indoors.
Key Properties of Mother-in-law’s Tongue
- Botanical Name: Sansevieria trifasciata
- Common Names: Snake plant, Mother-in-law’s tongue, Cow’s tongue
- Family: Asparagaceae
- Light Needs: Low to bright indirect light
- Watering Needs: Minimal; water every 2–3 weeks
- Toxicity: Mildly toxic to pets if ingested
Top Benefits of Mother-in-law’s Tongue
1. Air Purification
One of the most celebrated qualities of the snake plant is its ability to clean indoor air. According to a NASA Clean Air Study, Sansevieria can filter harmful toxins such as:
- Formaldehyde
- Benzene
- Xylene
- Toluene
- Trichloroethylene
This makes it ideal for bedrooms, offices, and spaces with poor ventilation.
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