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gk8454

By Gk8454

East Lothian, United Kingdom Gb

I have two plants that used to belong to my mother. One is I think called mothers tongue. I have just been adding water and I notice one leave has gone quite brown towards the end. Is there anything else I should be adding. It has had the same soil and pot for about three years. The next plant I don't know but its leaves are rapidly going brown even though I add water, although same soil for three years. I'd like to save them. Many thanks GK



Imgp3613 Imgp3612

Answers

 

The first one is Sansevieria, common name Mother in law's tongue, and I think the second might be an Aspidistra. The first will tolerate low light conditions, but prefers a brightish spot. Cut off the damaged leaf at the base - it might be that's its been knocked many times as people walk past it, but if its soggy, you may be overwatering. For both plants, water only when the surface of the compost is dry, and only water sparingly in winter. The Aspidistra will need watering liberally from Spring through to Autumn, but again, only when the surface of the compost is dry to the touch. Never leave any water in the outer pot or the roots will become waterlogged, so water, then go back after 30 minutes and empty out any excess water. If there's lots of excess, go back again 30 minutes later and empty it out again. That applies to both plants.
You can repot the Sanseveria in spring if you think it needs it - Aspidistra isn't keen on being repotted, so usually that's only done every 4 years or so, when it really needs it.
Regarding temperature, Aspidistra has the common name of Cast Iron Plant because it puts up with neglect - but it does not like being too wet, and it does not like warm rooms, needs a temperature lower than the average sitting room.

8 Feb, 2013

 

The Aspidistra likes a light place, but no direct sunlight. It will grow in any room. I have one in a warm living room. It flowers every year. I also have one in the bathroom.
They belonged to my Great- Grandmother :o)

You need to wipe the leaves every so often, because they get very dusty.
They don't like root disturbance, so only repot it when absolutely necessary.
Give it a feed every now and then also :o)

8 Feb, 2013

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