The arched hemp (Sansevieria) found its way to Europe in the 18th century. Initially cultivated as a rare exotic plant, the succulent plant is currently celebrating a revival as a houseplant. The plant, also known as mother-in-law's tongue, has strong leaves that look very pretty with their typical green-yellow grain. But the arched 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 who simply do not have a “green thumb”.
What is bow hemp as a houseplant?
The arched hemp is an easy-care and air-purifying houseplant with striking green-yellow leaves. It originally comes from dry regions of Africa and is also found in Asia. Bow hemp is suitable for people without a green thumb and for allergy sufferers.
Characteristics and origin
Bow hemp originally comes from the hot and dry regions of Africa, but is also widespread on the Arabian Peninsula and South Asia. It is a succulent plant, i.e. H. It stores water and nutrients in its thick, fleshy leaves for future bad times. The arched hemp is closely related to the dragon tree (Dracaena).
Appearance
There are different species and breeding forms that can look very different. Some sansevierias grow up to 150 centimeters high and have wide leaves, others remain comparatively small and have more round, tubular leaves. The leaf patterns also differ. The sword-shaped, leathery leaves develop into dense clumps, which in certain varieties are arranged like rosettes. In very rare cases the arched hemp blooms; the flower is not necessarily characterized by excessive beauty, but by a wonderful, sweet scent. Orange-red berries develop from the mostly white or greenish flower spikes after pollination by nocturnal moths.
Application options and usage
We only cultivate Sansevieria as a houseplant, although you can also put the plant outdoors on warm and dry summer days. Otherwise it is too cold for the plant in this country. Incidentally, bow hemp owes its name to its typical use in its African homeland: baskets, mats and other everyday items as well as clothing (such as hats) are made from the leaf fibers.
The air-purifying properties of bow hemp
Sensitive people and allergy sufferers in particular should cultivate bow hemp in their home or office, because the plant is an air-purifying plant. It filters various toxins and allergens from the air, but even releases oxygen at night.
Tip
Still, you should be careful with bowed hemp, at least if you have small children and / or pets. The plant is poisonous.
