Snake Plant Get Its Name

How Did Snake Plant Get Its Name?

Do you ever find yourself pondering on such a simple question, how indeed did the snake plant get its name? Commonly referred to as the constellation plant, this indoor plant scientifically referred to as Dracaena trifasciata has quite an interesting story behind the name.

Now is the time to explore the story of the snake plant and how it got its unusual name.

Snake Plant’s Common Name

It originated from tropical West Africa, known scientifically as Sansevieria. It’s called a snake plant due to the shapes that resemble snake skin on its elongated and pointed green leaves. This is because the God of agriculture marked the leaves in such a manner that people associated the herb with snakes, hence the name.

Other Names for the Snake Plant

Snake plant also has other names. A common informal name given to this plant is ‘mother-in-law’s tongue,’ a name based on the plant’s stiff, spear-like leaves. Another name is “viper’s bowstring hemp” by the reason of the usage of its rather effective fibers for the production of bowstrings.

Scientific Name Changes

First, the snake plant was in the genus Sansevieria. However, current research relegated it to the taxonomy genus Dracaena. It is therefore currently scientifically known as Dracaena trifasciata. However, the fact is that today a great number of individuals continue to address it with the earlier name.

Cultural Names

People belonging to different cultures have different names for this plant, which includes the snake plant. In Portuguese, there is the name “Espada de São Jorge,” which translates to “Saint George Sword. ” In Japanese, there is a name “tiger’s tail. ” Such names practically describe the appearance of these plants.

This is why people cannot get enough of Snake Plants.

Other than the rather unique name, the snake plant is considered rather popular since it requires moderate maintenance. They can thrive in areas with little light, they do not require much water and are famous for their air cleaning abilities. Due to this, this plant is ideal for placing in homes and offices.

Final Words:

The snake plant learned its name due to the snake-like pattern on its leaves. Known by different names it is the perfect plant for the different parts of the globe the has got several other names across different cultures; it’s still loved for its beauty and low maintenance.

Regardless of its name, as Sansevieria trifasciata, the snake plant, or the mother-in-law’s tongue, among other names, it is an inspiring asset to any space.

FAQS

Why is it called the snake plant?

The snake plant is so named due to the appearance of the pattern on its thin, elongated, pointed leaves in overall resemblance to the scales of a snake. These marks look like the scales of a snake, which is why the plant is so named.

What does the snake plant stand for?

The snake plant symbolizes tenacity or perseverance. Famous for growth in adverse conditions and thus represents stability and strength. Besides, it can be considered as a symbol of good luck and successful energy in various cultures.

What does the snake plant symbolize?

The snake plant symbolizes several things: The snake plant symbolizes several things:

  • Resilience and Strength: Patterns such as its technical features make it suitable to be used in areas where little light and water are available.
  • Purity and Cleanliness: It can be used to enhance air quality since it is all-pervading and absorbs toxins.
  • Good Fortune: Some societies believed that it is associated with the attributes of luck and people would use it to fend off bad energy.

What is the science behind the snake plant?

The snake plant is of the scientific name Dracaena trifasciata and comes from the Dracaena family.

  • Air Purification: According to NASA research, snake plants are capable of filtering chemical compounds such as formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene from the environment.
  • CAM Photosynthesis: They use a type of photosynthesis known as Crassulacean Acid Metabolism, which takes place when it is dark; therefore, snake plants release oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide during the night, which makes them good to use in bedrooms.
  • Drought Tolerance: Its leaves are thick and fleshy, and they retain water, this enables the plant to survive even with very little care, especially in dry seasons.

Read Next: 101 Cute & Funny Plant Names

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