Snake Plant Care Guide
About Snake Plants
One of the most popular types of houseplants is the spiky green snake plant. Also commonly known as, Dracaena Trifaciata, Mother-in-laws Tongue, and Sansevieria. The snake plant is great for beginners plant parents who tend to be forgetful because Sansevierias are succulents meaning they do not have picky humidity or watering requirements. Snake plants requires bright indirect light and would be a great addition to any room, office space, or plant sanctuary. Below explains all of the tips and tricks for taking care of your snake plant.
Basic Care Instructions and Requirements
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Snake Plant, Sansevieria, Mother-in-law-Tongue
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Dracaena Trifasciata
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Asparagaceae
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Evergreen, Perennial, Succulent
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Great For Beginners
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6-8 Feet Tall
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Bright, indirect light
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Well Draining Soil Composed of Perlite, Coco Coir, Peat Moss, and Sand. pH between 5.0-7.5.
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White, Cream, Greenish. (very rare)
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9-11 (USDA)
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Dry habitats of tropical Africa
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Toxic to Pets and Humans
Snake Plant Varieties
There are around 70 different varieties of snake plants within the Asparagaceae family. Some snake plants are harder to find than others like the Sansevieria Moonshine, Sansevieria Black Dragon, and Sansevieria Bantels Sensation. Personally our favorite is the beautiful Moonshine, but we also enjoy all of the other wonderful varieties of snake plants listed below.
Sansevieria Trifasciata
The most popular variation of snake plant that has spiky green tubular leaves with yellow striped lines on its edges.
Sansevieria Moonshine
Rarer variation of snake plant. It is recognized by its long and broad silver leaves. It can change color based on its watering schedule and location.
Sansevieria Masoniana
The shortest of the bunch. It is a rhizomatous succulent native to the Congo. Its darker green leaves are wide and short.
Sansevieria Cylindrica
Known for its very spiky points with a cylindrical pattern going up its green leaves.
Sunlight
Snake plants thrive best in areas of bright indirect sunlight. At a minimum, snake plants require 5 hours of sunlight per day. If your snake plant does not receive its daily sunlight requirement, the spiky leaves may begin to droop. Note that snake plant can survive in low light situations but if you want your plant to thrive best make sure it is getting ample light.
Humidity
Snake plants are succulents meaning they prefer environments with low humidity. In fact, they are often recommended as good plants for dry, indoor spaces where the humidity is low. That being said, they do appreciate a bit of extra humidity, especially if they are located in a very dry or heated room. To increase the humidity around your snake plant, you can mist the leaves occasionally, place the plant on a humidity tray, or use a humidifier.
Temperature
Snake plants thrive in temperatures ranging between 70-85 degrees. If you live in an area that temperatures drop below 60 degrees, bring your Sansevieria indoors and place it near a large window where it will receive bright in direct light. Remember snake plants are native to dry hot climates of Africa and prefer to be in that type of environment.
If you decide to bring your Sansevieria indoors during the colder months, make sure you make gradual changes to its environment over the course of weeks. Every few days move the snake plant closer and closer to your door until eventually it is in its final resting place for the remainder of winter. When signs of last frost happen, gradually begin the same process but in the opposite direction.
Watering
Snake plants are generally very easy to take care of but it is incredibly easy to over water them. Snake plants are succulents so they have the ability to retain a lot of water in their stems. That being said, if you water your snake plant too frequently you will see the negative impacts of this quickly through root rot, browning leaves, or other diseases that can be detrimental to the health of your plant. Never allow your snake plant to sit in a pool of water but also do not allow the soil to dry out either. Depending on the time of year, snake plants may require more frequent watering.
Best Soil For Snake Plants
Snake plants require a light loamy soil that is well draining. The best potting soil combination for snake plants is made up of peat moss, coconut coir, coconut husk, and coarse sand. Make sure that the soil is slightly acidic with a pH of 6.5-7.5.
Susceptible Pests & Diseases
Snake plants are susceptible to many pests and diseases, some of which include the following:
Root Rot
Southern Blight
Red Leaf Spot
Frequently Asked Questions
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According to the ASPCA, snake plants are toxic for dogs, cats, and humans so be sure to keep your snake plant out of arms reach. If ingestion occurs it has been known to cause stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea. Be sure to contact your vet if ingested or visit the ASPCA for more information.
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Some experts claim that snake plants can purify the air by removing CO2, Dust, and other harmful toxic pollutants including formaldehyde and benzene.
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The most common cause for drooping leaves on a snake plant is over watering. Keep in mind that your snake plant is a succulent, meaning it has the ability to retain a ton of water. The soil should be moist, not soggy.
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Yellowing leaves is a sign of overwatering or temperature fluctuations. Never place your snake plant near an air vent or window for extended periods of time, as this may cause temperatures to change too quickly.
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Yes absolutely, snake plants are considered one of the most popular types of succulents. Its long and pointy leaves are able to retain tons of water which is why they do not have harsh watering requirements.