Kufundisha · CC BY-SA 4.0
About
The species *Sansevieria moonshine* is a popular, tough houseplant known for its striking, variegated foliage. It is a member of the former *Sansevieria* genus, which is now classified within *Dracaena*. The plant is valued for its ability to purify air and its slow, steady growth.
Field notes
Morphology
The leaves are typically arranged in a rosette and exhibit great variation in form, ranging from cylindrical to wide and strap-like. Hard-leaved species, which often originate from arid climates, have thick, succulent leaves for water storage and thick cuticles to reduce moisture loss.
Cultivation notes
As houseplants, the species thrives on warmth and bright light, though it can tolerate shade. It is crucial to pot the plant in well-drained soil and avoid over-watering, as it can rot from excess moisture. Propagation is best done by rhizome division to retain variegation, as leaf cuttings may revert to a non-variegated form.
History & etymology
The genus name *Sansevieria* honors Italian scientist Raimondo di Sangro, Prince of San Severo. It was originally named *Sanseverinia* by Vincenzo Petagna in 1787, to honor his patron Pietro Antonio Sanseverino, Count of Chiaromonte. Carl Peter Thunberg used the name *Sansevieria* in 1794.
Habitat
- Altitude
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- Altitude Class
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Cultivation
- Difficulty
- intermediate
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