Sansevieria plants belong to the family asparagaceae – the same family as the asparagus. The type of plant varies from species to species, but the genus does contain a notable number of succulents. Originating in Africa, and South Asia, some species of the Sansevieria genus also take common names such as Devil’s tongue, Djinn’s tongue and Snake Tongue.

Most species of Sansevieria have foliage shaped in a rosette, but whether the leaves are thick or soft depends on the specific climate where the species are grown. Similarly, care for plants in the Sansevieria genus is also climate dependent. 

Owners should be sure not to confuse plants in the Sansevieria genus with plants in the Dracaena genus, as their similar appearances give way to dramatically different care requirements.