Snake plants, also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, are long-lived and easy-to-care-for succulent houseplants. While they were initially classified under the genus Sansevieria, recent genetic research has reclassified them under Dracaena, which includes other popular houseplants like the Madagascar dragon tree, corn plant, and lucky bamboo. In this article, we will focus on snake plants from the former genus Sansevieria.
The Fascinating World of Snake Plants
Originating from Africa, southern Asia, and Madagascar, there are over 70 different species of snake plants. With varying heights, forms, colors, and leaf structures, you’re sure to find the perfect snake plant for your home or office.
You're reading: Snake Plant: A Resilient and Low-maintenance Houseplant
Easy-care Requirements
Snake plants have earned their reputation for being low-maintenance. They thrive in well-drained soil, so opt for a cactus potting mix or potting mix with perlite. When it comes to watering, less is more. Overwatering can be detrimental, but neglecting to water for a month or so won’t harm the plant.
These plants prefer bright indirect light but can also tolerate low-light areas. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn. Taller varieties should be placed in heavy pots, as the weight of the leaves can cause them to topple over, especially when the soil is dry. While snake plants are fine with being snug in their containers, beware of clay pots as they can break if the plant becomes too rootbound. Be sure to choose containers with drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil.
To keep your snake plant in optimal condition, occasionally dust the leaves. If a leaf sustains damage, simply cut it off at the soil level. For healthy and robust growth, fertilize monthly during the growing season using a half-strength, all-purpose fertilizer.
Hardy and Resistant
Snake plants are hardy against pests and diseases. However, overwatering can lead to root rot, which is a common issue. Occasionally, mealybugs and spider mites may bother these resilient plants.
Easy Propagation and Growth
Snake plants are great for sharing, as they are easy to propagate. While you can start new plants from leaf cuttings, the simplest method is through division. After a few years, the plant will produce offspring, which can be separated from the parent plant and repotted with fresh soil. Generally, snake plants only require repotting every 5 years, but this may vary depending on the specific variety. For example, my Dracaena trifasciata has been thriving in the same pot for more than 20 years, while my Dracaena trifasciata ‘Hahnii’ needs to be repotted every 3 years. I’ve gifted numerous snake plant babies over the years!
Note: All species of snake plants are toxic to pets due to the presence of saponin toxins. If you have a pet, take caution.
Varieties and Cultivars
Read more : How to Propagate Snake Plant: 4 Sure-Fire Methods for Success
Snake plants offer a wide array of varieties and cultivars to choose from. You can find different options at your local garden center or online.
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Dracaena trifasciata: The straight species has green leaves with darker green, irregular, horizontal variegation. It can grow up to 4 feet tall and is commonly known as “snake plant.”
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Dracaena trifasciata ‘Laurentii’: This variety features bright yellow/golden bands along the leaf margins, providing a stunning contrast against the variegated green leaves.
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Dracaena trifasciata ‘Moonglow’: With broader silvery-green leaves that have a narrow dark green band along the margins, this cultivar exhibits minimal variegation.
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Dracaena trifasciata ‘Bantel’s Sensation’: A unique variety with unusual vertical white striping in the leaves. It grows up to 36 inches tall, and the leaves are narrower than most cultivars in this species.
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Dracaena trifasciata ‘Hahnii’: A dwarf rosette species that only grows to 6 inches tall. Its common name is “bird’s nest snake plant,” and it is perfect for small spaces like desks, coffee tables, or bookshelves.
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Dracaena trifasciata ‘Golden Hahnii’: Another dwarf rosette variety with leaves featuring a broad golden band along the margins. It reaches a height of 7 inches.
Dracaena trifasciata ‘Moonglow’, Dracaena trifasciata ‘Hahnii’, Dracaena trifasciata (Photo credit: Susan Marquesen)
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Dracaena angolensis: This species is nicknamed “spear snake plant” or “cigar snake plant” due to its rounded tubular stems that end in sharp barbs.
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Read more : How to Get Your Indoor Snake Plants to Bloom
Dracaena angolensis var. patula ‘Boncel’: Also known as “starfish,” this variety spreads from its base like a fan on a flat plane. Its leaves are shorter and thicker than the straight species.
Dracaena angolensis (Photo credit: Susan Marquesen)
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Dracaena hanningtonii ‘Samurai Dwarf’: This dwarf cultivar is adaptable and slowly grows up to 6 inches. Its leaves are thick, short, V-shaped, and have red edges. When viewed from above, they create a circular form. It was previously known as Sansevieria ehrenbergii.
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Dracaena pethera: A distinctive addition to your snake plant collection, this species grows through underground rhizomes. It was previously named Sansevieria kirkii.
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Dracaena pethera ‘Coppertone’: An unusually-colored procumbent rosette variety with wider leaves than height. Its leaves are variegated dark green and copper, reaching a diameter of 8 inches.
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Dracaena pethera ‘Silver Blue’: This rosette plant features stiff blue-grey variegated foliage with hints of red and white. The leaves are 4 inches wide and up to 12 inches long, while the plant itself reaches a height of 6 inches.
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Dracaena bacularis ‘Fernwood Mikado’: With narrow, upright, dark green variegated leaves, this snake plant becomes denser as it matures. It is an excellent addition to desks or tables.
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Dracaena masoniana: Also known as “shark fin” or “whale fin,” this species boasts wide paddle-like leaves that can grow up to 10 inches wide and 4 feet long. The dark green leaves have attractive white blotches and purple margins. It is striking and was formerly known as Sansevieria masoniana.
A Timeless Addition to Any Space
Whichever snake plant you choose, it will bring years of interest and beauty to your home with minimal care. From their forgiving nature to their wide range of varieties, snake plants are the ideal choice for both experienced and novice plant enthusiasts.
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Category: Snake Plant
