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Showing posts from July, 2012

Mother-in-law's tongue

Mother-in-law's tongue is the very mean nick-name for this common plant, otherwise known as 'Snake's tongue'. A very hardy succulent, I think it makes an attractive live fence. Known as NaagataaLi in Kannada, the sap from the 'tongue' is supposed to be a cure for ear ailments. In addition to the one above, I have two other variations in my collection. This is 'Mother-in-law's tongue' with a dash of colour.... my favourite. The 'tongue' in this type usually takes a twist or two and has a nice spiral shape. And, kyonki saas bhi kabhi bahu thi , this dwarf variety is the Mother-in-law's tongue when she was daughter-in-law ;) All the three above have their origins in my mother's garden. She had a huge collection of succulents..... Most gardening websites root for the snake's tongue as indoor plant for its air purifying properties. They advice against over watering. But, you know, some years ago, I had