Definition

Noun: 1. A common name for a specific evergreen houseplant: Refers to a species of plant (Sansevieria trifasciata, also classified as Dracaena trifasciata) known for its long, upright, rigid, and sharply pointed leaves that are typically dark green with lighter bands or variegation. The name humorously alludes to the plant's sharp, potentially hurtful leaves, comparing them to the sharp tongue of a stereotypical mother-in-law. 2. The plant itself as a physical object: The living organism cultivated for its architectural form and air-purifying qualities.

Usage and Examples

• As a common name for the plant:
  • The mother-in-law's tongue is very popular because it's almost impossible to kill.
  • She placed a tall pot of mother-in-law's tongue in the corner to add a vertical element to the room.
• Referring to its characteristics:
  • Be careful when repotting a mother-in-law's tongue; the leaf tips are very sharp.
  • The resilience of the mother-in-law's tongue makes it perfect for beginners.

Advanced Usage and Notes

• The name is a colloquial, humorous metaphor. The "tongue" in the name refers to the plant's long, pointed leaves, and "mother-in-law's" playfully suggests they are as sharp and potentially wounding as a critical remark.
• While the reference context mentions the plant "contains a poison that swells the tongue and throat," this is a folk explanation for the name. The plant does contain saponins which can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal discomfort if ingested, but the name's primary origin is the visual metaphor of the sharp leaf, not its toxicity.

Variants and Related Words

• Snake Plant: The most common alternative name, referring to the pattern on the leaves resembling snake skin.
• Saint George's Sword: A name used in some cultures, referencing the sword-like shape of the leaves.
• Sansevieria: The former botanical genus name, still widely used in horticulture.
• Dracaena trifasciata: The current accepted botanical name.

Synonyms

• Snake Plant
• Viper's Bowstring Hemp (another common name)

Related Idioms or Expressions

• While not an idiom itself, the name mother-in-law's tongue is a sustained metaphorical expression comparing a plant's physical attribute to a human social stereotype.

Noun

1. an evergreen plant with large showy dark green leaves; contains a poison that swells the tongue and throat hence the name
2. stemless plant having narrow rigid leaves often cultivated as a houseplant