Bow hemp (Sansevieria) found its way to Europe as early as the 18th century. Initially cultivated as a rare exotic, the succulent plant is currently celebrating a revival as a houseplant. The plant, also known as the mother-in-law's tongue, has strong leaves that are very pretty to look at with their typical green-yellow grain. But the bow hemp is not only kept because of its appearance, it is also considered to be extremely easy to care for - making it the perfect plant for people who are rarely at home or simply do not have a "green thumb".
Bow hemp is a frugal houseplant
characteristics and origin
Originally, the bow hemp comes from the hot and dry regions of Africa, but is also widespread on the Arabian Peninsula and in South Asia. It is a succulent plant, i. H. it stores water and nutrients in its thick, fleshy leaves for bad times to come. Bow hemp is closely related to the dragon tree (Dracaena).
appearance
There are different species and cultivated forms that can look very different. Some Sansevierias grow up to 150 centimeters in height and have broad leaves, while others remain comparatively small and have round, tubular leaves. The leaf patterns are also different. The sword-shaped, leathery leaves develop into dense clumps, with certain varieties forming a rosette. In very rare cases, the hemp blooms, the flower is not necessarily characterized by excessive beauty, but by a wonderful sweet scent. After pollination by nocturnal moths, orange-red berries develop from the mostly white or greenish flower panicles.
Possible uses and uses
With us, Sansevieria is only cultivated as a houseplant, although you can also place the plant outdoors on warm and dry summer days. Otherwise it is too cold for the plant in this country. Incidentally, the bow hemp owes its name to the typical use in its African homeland: baskets, mats and other everyday objects as well as clothing (such as hats) are made from the leaf fibers.
The air-purifying properties of bow hemp
In particular, sensitive people and allergy sufferers should cultivate the bow hemp in their home or office, because the plant is one of the air-purifying plants. It filters various toxins and allergens from the air, but even releases oxygen at night.
tips
Still, you should be careful with scalloped cannabis, at least if you have small children and/or pets. The plant is poisonous.