Snake Plant vs Mother-In-Law’s Tongue: Untangling Two Common Names for One Great Houseplant

Walk into any plant nursery or home decor store and you’re bound to come across two familiar greenery staples the snake plant and the mother-in-law’s tongue Despite their wildly different common names, these two popular houseplants are actually the same species – though you’d be forgiven for not realizing it at first glance!

In this article, we’ll unravel the tangled story behind these two distinctive monikers referring to the same resilient succulent. We’ll explore the origins of each nickname, reasons for their enduring usage, and whether one name is actually more accurate. We’ll also highlight the key features that make this plant such a hardy houseplant favorite.

Same Succulent, Two Nicknames

Botanically speaking, there is zero distinction between a snake plant and a mother-in-law’s tongue plant. Both common names refer to the species Sansevieria trifasciata, a hardy succulent in the Sansevieria genus containing around 70 varieties.

S. trifasciata is the most popular Sansevieria grown indoors. No matter what name you choose this beloved houseplant can be recognized by its thick, upright leaves emerging in a rosette pattern. The stiff leaves are typically dark green with light gray-green horizontal stripes.

So if you come across a “snake plant” and a “mother-in-law’s tongue” at the nursery, rest easy – they are the very same plant! The only difference may be in the specific cultivar.

Why the Two Distinct Nicknames?

The use of snake plant and mother-in-law’s tongue as interchangeable common names stems from some key historical factors:

• Sansevieria Genus Name – The genus was named in honor of Italian inventor Raimondo di Sangro (Sanseverino in Latin)

• Snake Plant Nickname – The banding on the leaves resembles snake skin, leading to the Western nickname “snake plant.”

• Mother-In-Law’s Tongue Name – In some cultures, the stiff leaves were thought to resemble a mother-in-law’s “sharp tongue.” This name caught on in Britain.

Matching a plant’s appearance or cultural associations with descriptive common names is very typical. In this case, two distinct names emerged for S. trifasciata based on different symbolic interpretations.

Subtle Differences Between the Names

While totally interchangeable, there are minor differences in how the two names are used:

• “Snake plant” is more common in the U.S., while “mother-in-law’s tongue” is still frequently used in Britain.

• Scientific literature tends to use the Latin name to avoid confusion.

• Certain cultivars may also have specific varietal names that are used alongside the common names.

So feel free to choose whichever common name you like! Any reader familiar with the plant will recognize both terms.

Is One Name More Correct?

Neither common name is necessarily “more correct” since both are widely used by plant lovers. However, some arguments can be made in support of each:

In Favor of Snake Plant

• More popular in the U.S.
• Describes the snake-like leaf markings
• Aligns with other “snake” plants like snake gourd

In Favor of Mother-in-Law’s Tongue

• Has historical usage in Britain
• Colorfully captures the pointed leaves
• Distinguishes from unrelated “snake” plants

But at the end of the day, the usage of these common names simply comes down to regional traditions and individual preference. The crucial thing is that both terms refer specifically to S. trifasciata.

Key Features of This Dual-Named Succulent

Whatever name you know it by, this beloved succulent has characteristics that make it an ideal low-maintenance houseplant. Here are some of its standout qualities:

• Hardy and resilient – Tolerates low light, irregular watering, and drought very well. Difficult to kill!

• Air purifying – Removes toxins like formaldehyde and benzene from indoor air.

• Architectural form – Provides a sculptural, vertical element with its stiff upright leaves.

• Low care needs – Only requires occasional watering and tolerates a wide range of light conditions.

• Visually striking – Dark green leaves with light gray-green horizontal stripes have a dramatic look.

• Pet safety – Not toxic to dogs and cats if ingested, unlike many houseplants.

Which Name Will You Choose?

Now that you know snake plant and mother-in-law’s tongue are simply two common nicknames for the same easy-care succulent, the choice is yours!

Use whichever name resonates most based on your region, individual taste, or the vibe you want to create. The most important thing is appreciating this plant for its resilience and air purifying nature – two qualities that make it a houseplant hero no matter what you call it.