Bowstring hemp
Sansevieria zeylanica

Family: Asparagaceae

What it is like

Can be misspelt as Sansevieria zeylandica

Sansevieria zeylanica is an evergreen Perennial growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.1 m (0ft 4in) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Height (m): 0.6

Where it is found

Usually found growing among rocks in the drier areas of Sri Lanka.

E. Asia - India, Sri Lanka.

Conservation Status: This taxon has not yet been assessed

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 0

Medicine

Rating: 2

The dried rhizomes and roots provide material for antiseptic ointments. The roots are used for purgative, tonic, expectorant and anti-fever remedies. The plant is used traditionally in the treatment of septic wounds. Modern research has confirmed that an aqueous extract of the plant possesses antifungal properties.

Other

Rating: 4

A fibre is obtained from the leaves. It is used for making mats, sails, cordage, coarse cloth and the production of paper pulp. Carbon Farming - Industrial Crop: fiber.

How it is grown

A succulent. Climate: subtropical to tropical. Humidity: semi-arid to humid. Requires a sunny position in a well-drained soil. Prefers a pH in the range 6 - 7. Established plants are very drought tolerant. A good house or pot plant. Carbon Farming - Cultivation: minor global crop. Management: hay.

Propagating it: Seed. Division of the rootstock. Leaf cuttings. Cut the leaf into sections about 5cm long, place in a 2:1 mix of sand and peat in a propagating case with a bottom heat of 18°c.

Best place to grow:

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness: 9-11

Growth: Medium

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: No shade

Moisture: Dry, moist

Things to keep in mind

Sharp leaves.

Its other names

Local names

Ceylon Bowstring Hemp

Synonyms

Sansevieria zeylandica (misspelt)