Snake Plants: Types, Care, and Benefits

Snake plants, also known as Sansevieria, are one of the most popular houseplants due to their low maintenance which is why it’s excellent for beginner’s air-purifying qualities.

Snake plants are known to be one of the most durable indoor plants, capable of withstanding a variety of indoor conditions. With its tall, upright leaves, the snake plant, also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, can provide structural elegance to any room and enhance the style of any decor.

The snake plant is a stemless plant with sturdy, thick, and erect leaves, which makes it an ideal plant for small spaces. Some smaller varieties of the plant form rosettes of leaves. The most commonly seen foliage displays shades of green with horizontal streaks of silver-gray. There are also variegated varieties that have cream or gold edges.

Under optimal conditions, the snake plant will produce flowers. Although they are not very striking, the flowers bloom in large clusters and are usually white with a greenish tinge. The small, tubular flowers release a sweet floral fragrance that can fill an entire room. However, the snake plant only blooms once every few years and does not follow a set schedule.

Snake plants are not safe for dogs, cats, and young children as they contain toxins that can be harmful if ingested. Therefore, it is recommended to keep them out of reach of pets and children.

Types of Snake Plants

There are many types of snake plants, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular varieties include:

Sansevieria Trifasciata:

This is the most common Snake Plant type, also known as Mother-in-law’s tongue. It has long, upright leaves with green and yellow stripes.

Sansevieria Cylindrica:

Also known as African Spear, this variety has cylindrical leaves with pointed ends.

Sansevieria Laurentii:

This is a rare type of Snake Plant with large, paddle-shaped leaves that resemble a whale’s fin. For propagation of this plant, it must be divided rather than propagated from leaf cuttings.

Sansevieria Zeylanica:

This variety has longer leaves than the Sansevieria trifasciata, and they’re dark green with white stripes.

Whale Fin Sansevieria:

This type of Snake Plant has broad, yellow-edged leaves that grow in a rosette shape.

Sansevieria moonshine:

This variety has silvery-gray leaves that grow upright and tall.

All of these varieties are easy to care for and can tolerate a variety of indoor conditions.

Also read: How to Grow Marble Queen Pothos

Snake Plants Care

Light Requirements

Snake plants are very adaptable and can tolerate a wide range of light conditions. While they prefer bright, indirect light, they can also thrive in low-light conditions. However, too much direct sunlight can burn their leaves, so it’s best to keep them out of direct sunlight.

Watering

One of the reasons snake plants are so popular is that they are very easy to care for. They do not require a lot of water.

Snake plants are drought-tolerant and do not require frequent watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. Water your snake plant only when the soil is completely dry, which can take up to two weeks, depending on the temperature and humidity levels in your home.

When watering your snake plant, make sure to water the soil and not the leaves to avoid fungal infections. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure that the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom.

It’s important not to overwater snake plants, as this can lead to root rot.

Soil Requirements

Snake plants require well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. You can use a cactus or succulent potting mix or create your own by mixing equal parts of perlite, sand, and peat moss. Avoid using heavy soils that retain moisture as they can lead to root rot.

When repotting your snake plant, choose a pot that is slightly larger than the previous one. Ensure that the new pot has drainage holes to allow excess water to drain out.

Temperature and Humidity

Snake plants are tolerant of a range of temperatures, but they prefer temperatures between 60-85°F (15-29°C). They can handle temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C), but prolonged exposure to colder temperatures can damage the leaves. Avoid placing your snake plant in areas that experience extreme temperature fluctuations or drafty areas, such as near doors or windows.

Snake plants can handle a range of humidity levels, but they prefer moderate to low humidity. They can thrive in environments with humidity levels as low as 20%, but they may also do well in environments with humidity levels up to 50%. However, they may be susceptible to fungal diseases if the humidity is too high. If you live in a very dry area, you can increase the humidity around your snake plant by misting it occasionally or placing a tray of water nearby.

Fertilizer

Snake plants are low-maintenance plants that do not require a lot of fertilizer. However, they can benefit from occasional feeding during their growing season to promote healthy growth and foliage.

Here are some guidelines to follow when fertilizing your snake plant:

1. Frequency: Fertilize your snake plant about once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing during the winter when the plant is in its dormant phase.
2. Type of fertilizer: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (e.g., 10-10-10). You can also use a slow-release fertilizer, which will release nutrients over a longer period of time.
3. Dilution: Mix the fertilizer with water according to the package instructions, and apply it to the soil around the plant. Avoid getting fertilizer on the leaves, as this can cause damage.
4. Amount: Use a small amount of fertilizer, as snake plants do not require a lot of nutrients. A general rule of thumb is to use about half the amount of fertilizer recommended on the package.

Remember, over-fertilizing can be harmful to snake plants and can lead to burnt or damaged foliage. It’s better to err on the side of caution and fertilize less frequently and with smaller amounts.

Also read: How to Propagate Pothos – Tips and Tricks Inside!

Snake Plant Care Tips

Here are some additional care tips for snake plants:

• Use well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes to prevent overwatering.
• Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
• Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
• Keep the plant away from cold drafts and air conditioning vents.

Pruning

Snake plants (Sansevieria) are relatively low-maintenance plants that do not require frequent pruning. However, pruning can be necessary to maintain the plant’s shape or to remove any damaged or yellowing leaves.

Here are some guidelines to follow when pruning your snake plant:

Identify the leaves to be pruned:

Look for any damaged or yellowing leaves that need to be removed. Use a clean, sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears to make the cuts.

Cut the leaves at the base:

Cut the leaves as close to the soil as possible, making sure not to damage any surrounding leaves or stems. If the leaves are still partially green, you can leave a small portion of the leaf attached to the stem to help with photosynthesis.

Dispose of the cut leaves:

Discard the cut leaves in the trash or compost them if you have a compost pile. Do not leave the cut leaves on the soil, as they can attract pests or cause fungal diseases.

Optional: Propagate the cuttings:

If you want to propagate your snake plant, you can use the cut leaves to grow new plants. Let the cuttings dry for a few days, then place them in a pot of well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and the cuttings should start to grow new roots and leaves in a few weeks.

Remember, snake plants do not require frequent pruning, and over-pruning can be harmful to the plant’s overall health. Only prune when necessary, and be sure to use clean, sharp tools to prevent damage or infection.

Propagating Snake Plant

Transplanting snake plants can be done through various methods, such as repotting and propagating. If you’re looking to propagate your snake plant, you can do so by separating the pups that grow around the mother plant or by dividing the plant at the root level. Another method of propagating snake plants is through water propagation, where you simply place a cutting of the plant in water until it grows roots. Additionally, you can propagate snake plants through leaf cuttings, which involves removing a healthy leaf from the plant and placing it in the soil until it develops roots. Whether you’re transplanting or propagating, it’s important to take care not to damage the snake plant’s delicate root system or the snake root that supports it.

Here are some different methods for snake plant propagation:

propagating snake plants by division

1. Remove the snake plant from its pot and gently separate the rhizomes (underground stems) with your hands or a sharp knife. Make sure each division has at least one healthy stem and root system.
2. Plant each division in a pot with well-draining soil and water thoroughly. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and place the new plants in a bright, indirect light.
3. Wait for the new plants to establish roots and begin to grow before watering again. Once they are established, you can treat them like mature snake plants.

propagating snake plant leaf cuttings

1. Choose a healthy leaf and use a sharp, clean knife or scissors to cut it into 2-3 inch sections. Make sure each section has a clean cut and at least one healthy vein.
2. Allow the cuttings to dry for a few days until the cut ends have calloused over.
3. Plant the cuttings in a pot with well-draining soil, burying them about an inch deep. Water thoroughly, and place the pot in a bright, indirect light.
4. Wait for the cuttings to establish roots and begin to grow before watering again. Once they are established, you can treat them like mature snake plants.

propagating snake plants Leaf division

Leaf division is another method of propagating snake plants (Sansevieria). Here are the steps:

1. Choose a healthy leaf and use a clean, sharp knife or scissors to cut it into several sections, each with a length of about 2-3 inches. Make sure each section has at least one healthy vein.
2. Allow the cut sections to dry for a day or two until the ends have been calloused over.
3. Plant the sections in a pot with well-draining soil, burying them about an inch deep. Water thoroughly, and place the pot in a bright, indirect light.
4. Wait for the sections to establish roots and begin to grow before watering again. Once they are established, you can treat them like mature snake plants.

water propagating snake plant

Water propagation is another way to propagate snake plants (Sansevieria). Here are the steps:

1. Choose a healthy leaf and use a clean, sharp knife or scissors to cut it into several sections, each with a length of 2-3 inches. Make sure each section has at least one healthy vein.
2. Fill a clean, clear glass or jar with water, and place the cuttings in the water so that the bottom ends are submerged. Make sure the top ends of the cuttings are above the water line.
3. Place the glass or jar in a bright, indirect light, and change the water every few days to prevent bacteria growth. Make sure the bottom ends of the cuttings stay submerged in the water.
4. After a few weeks, you should start to see roots growing from the bottom ends of the cuttings. Once the roots are about 1-2 inches long, you can plant the cuttings in a pot with well-draining soil.
5. Plant the rooted cuttings in a pot with well-draining soil, burying them about an inch deep. Water thoroughly, and place the pot in a bright, indirect light.
6. Wait for the cuttings to establish themselves and begin to grow before watering again. Once they are established, you can treat them like mature snake plants.

Remember, water propagation can be slower than other methods of propagation, and not all cuttings may root successfully. Be patient and keep an eye on the cuttings for signs of growth. If you notice any rot or discoloration, remove the affected cuttings immediately to prevent the spread of disease.

Benefits of Snake Plants

Air Purification

Snake plants, also known as Sansevieria, are widely recognized for their ability to purify the air. In fact, NASA conducted a study that found snake plants to be effective at removing toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene from the air.

This makes them a popular choice for indoor spaces, especially for those who suffer from allergies or respiratory issues. Snake plants are also low maintenance and can thrive in a variety of lighting conditions, making them a versatile addition to any room.

While they are safe to have in your home, it’s important to note that snake plants are toxic to cats and dogs, so it’s best to keep them out of reach of pets. Overall, incorporating snake plants into your home or office can improve the air quality and create a more comfortable and healthy living environment.

Low Maintenance

One of the reasons why snake plants are so popular is their low maintenance requirements. They are a great option for those who are new to plant care or for those who may not have a lot of time to devote to their plants.

Snake plants are very adaptable and can thrive in a variety of lighting conditions, from bright, and indirect light to low light. They also don’t require frequent watering and can tolerate periods of drought, making them a great choice for forgetful plant owners.

When it comes to potting, snake plants don’t require frequent repotting and can actually benefit from being slightly root-bound. Overall, snake plants are a great choice for those who want to enjoy the benefits of having plants in their space without the added hassle of high-maintenance care.

Stylish Appearance

In addition to their air-purifying qualities and low maintenance requirements, snake plants also have a stylish appearance that makes them a popular choice for home decor. Their long, upright leaves with distinctive patterns and colors add a touch of elegance to any space.

There are many different varieties of snake plants available, each with its own unique appearance. Some have leaves with vibrant yellow or white stripes, while others have cylindrical, sword-like leaves.

Snake plants are also versatile in terms of placement, as they can be potted in a variety of containers to match any decor style. Whether you prefer a modern, minimalist look or a more bohemian vibe, snake plants can be incorporated seamlessly into your home design.

Toxicity to Pets

Are Snake Plants Toxic?

The answer is yes, Snake Plants are toxic to cats and dogs. The plant contains saponins, a natural detergent that can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. Therefore, it’s best to keep Snake Plants out of reach of pets and children.

are snake plants toxic to cats?

snake plants are not safe for cats. Yes, snake plants are considered to be mildly toxic to cats. If ingested, they can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal issues. However, it’s worth noting that snake plants are not as toxic as other common houseplants, and the symptoms are generally not severe. It’s still important to keep snake plants out of reach of cats and other pets and to monitor them closely if they are in the same room as the plants. If you suspect your cat has ingested any part of a snake plant and is experiencing symptoms, it’s important to contact your veterinarian for advice on how to proceed.

are snake plants toxic to dogs?

Yes, snake plants are toxic to dogs if ingested. They contain saponins, which can cause digestive issues such as vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling. The symptoms are usually mild, but in some cases, dogs may experience more severe reactions. It’s important to keep snake plants out of reach of dogs and to monitor them closely if they are in the same room as the plants. If you suspect your dog has ingested any part of a snake plant and is experiencing symptoms, it’s important to contact your veterinarian for advice on how to proceed.

Also read: How harmful is pothos for pets?

Potting and Repotting Snake Plant

Potting and repotting snake plants is an important aspect of their care. Here are the step-by-step instructions for potting and repotting snake plants:

1. Choosing a Pot: Select a pot that is one size bigger than the current one. Make sure the pot has drainage holes in the bottom to allow excess water to drain out.
2. Preparing Potting Mix: Snake plants prefer a well-draining potting mix. You can make a mix of equal parts peat moss, perlite, and coarse sand or purchase a commercial cactus or succulent potting mix.
3. Preparing the Plant: Carefully remove the plant from its current pot and gently shake off any loose soil from the roots. Use a clean, sharp knife to cut away any dead or rotting roots.
4. Potting the Plant: Add a layer of potting mix to the bottom of the new pot. Place the plant in the center of the pot and add potting mix around the sides, gently pressing it down to secure the plant in place. Make sure to leave a little space at the top for watering.
5. Watering: Water the plant thoroughly after repotting and then allow the soil to dry out partially before watering again.

Methods for Repotting:

1. Complete Repotting: This method involves completely removing the plant from its pot, shaking off the soil, and repotting in a new pot with fresh soil.
2. Top Dressing: This method involves adding a layer of fresh soil on top of the existing soil in the pot.
3. Division: Over time, snake plants can become crowded and need to be divided. This involves carefully separating the plant into two or more sections and repotting each section in a new pot with fresh soil.

In conclusion, potting and repotting snake plants is an important part of their care. With the proper potting mix, pot size, and watering, your snake plant will thrive and continue to purify the air in your home.

Also read: Garden Worms: The Unsung Heroes of Soil Health

Common Pests

Snake plants are known to be resistant to pests, but it’s still important to keep an eye out for any potential issues. Here are some common pests that can affect snake plants and how to deal with them:

1. Spider mites: These tiny insects can cause webbing on the leaves and yellowing. To get rid of them, wipe down the leaves with a damp cloth and then spray with a solution of water and neem oil.
2. Mealybugs: These bugs look like small cotton balls and can be found on the leaves or in the soil. Remove them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
3. Scale insects: These insects look like small brown or black bumps on the leaves. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them.
4. Fungus gnats: These small flies lay eggs in the soil and their larvae can cause root damage. To prevent them, allow the soil to dry out between watering and use a soil mix that drains well. If you do have an infestation, you can use yellow sticky traps to catch them.
5. Thrips: These insects are small and usually found on the underside of the leaves. They can cause black spots and curling. Use a neem oil spray to get rid of them.

When dealing with pests, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further damage to the plant. Regularly inspect your snake plant and take steps to prevent pests from infesting it in the first place.

Common Problems With Snake Plant

Foul-smelling Soil

Foul-smelling soil is a common problem that many gardeners face, and it can be particularly unpleasant when it comes to indoor plants such as snake plants. The smell is caused by anaerobic bacteria that thrive in damp soil with poor drainage. To get rid of the foul smell, first, you need to identify the root cause of the problem, which is often overwatering or poor drainage. You can try the following methods:

1. Adjust watering: Reduce the frequency of watering and make sure the soil has proper drainage. Let the soil dry out slightly before watering again.
2. Repotting: If the soil has become too compacted and is not draining properly, you may need to repot the plant into fresh soil.
3. Aerate the soil: Poke holes in the soil with a fork or chopstick to improve the airflow and reduce moisture.
4. Add activated charcoal: Adding activated charcoal to the soil can help absorb the foul odors.
5. Use a fungicide: If the soil smells musty or moldy, it may be infected with fungus. Use a fungicide to treat the soil.

Remember that prevention is the best cure, so make sure to use well-draining soil, avoid overwatering, and provide proper ventilation to your snake plant to prevent foul-smelling soil.

Yellow or Brown Leaves

Yellow or brown leaves on a snake plant can be a sign of several issues.

If you notice that your snake plant is yellowing, it could be due to several reasons. The yellowing may occur at the base of the plant or on the leaves themselves. In the case of a cylindrical snake plant, it may be yellow at the tips. The yellowing may be more prominent at the tips or along the edges of the leaves.

The cause of snake plant yellowing can be overwatering, underwatering, or pests. If you’re watering your snake plant too much, the roots may become waterlogged, causing the leaves to turn yellow. On the other hand, if you’re not watering your plant enough, the leaves may become dry and turn yellow.

Inspect your plant for any signs of pests, such as spider mites or mealybugs, which can cause yellowing. To prevent further yellowing, adjust your watering schedule and check for pests. If the yellowing is severe, you may need to remove the affected leaves or repot the plant.

Overwatering can cause root rot and lead to yellow or brown leaves. If the soil is consistently wet, it can suffocate the roots and prevent them from absorbing nutrients. Exposure to cold temperatures can cause leaf discoloration. Snake plants are sensitive to cold temperatures and should be kept in a warm environment. Lack of sunlight can also cause yellow or brown leaves. Snake plants require bright, indirect light to thrive.

To fix yellow or brown leaves on a snake plant, start by assessing the watering schedule. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. If the soil is consistently wet, consider repotting the plant in fresh, well-draining soil.

Check the temperature in the room and ensure it’s not too cold for the plant. Lastly, make sure the plant is receiving enough sunlight. Move it to a brighter location or provide artificial lighting if necessary.

Curling Leaves

Curling leaves on a snake plant can indicate several issues. One of the most common reasons for this problem is overwatering. When the soil is too wet, it can cause the roots to rot, which can lead to curling and wilting leaves.

On the other hand, underwatering can also cause the leaves to curl and dry out. This is because the plant is not getting enough water to support its growth. Another possible cause of curling leaves is low humidity. Snake plants prefer a humid environment, and if the air is too dry, it can cause the leaves to curl and become brittle.

To fix this issue, you can increase the humidity around the plant by placing a humidifier nearby or misting the leaves regularly. It is also important to ensure that the plant is getting the right amount of light, as too much or too little can cause curling and other problems.

Leaves Falling Over or Drooping

When the leaves of your snake plant start to droop or fall over, it could indicate a few different issues. Overwatering is one common cause, as it can lead to root rot and weak, floppy leaves. Another possibility is that the plant is not getting enough light, causing the leaves to become weak and bend over.

If the potting mix is too heavy and not well-draining, it can also cause the plant to droop. To fix this issue, make sure you’re watering your snake plant appropriately (let the soil dry out before watering again), and ensure that it’s getting enough sunlight. Repotting your plant with a well-draining potting mix can also help prevent future drooping or falling over of the leaves.

Conclusion

Snake plants are a great addition to any home or office. They are easy to care for, air purifying, and non-toxic to pets. With the proper care, they can thrive for many years.

FAQ

How toxic is snake plant to cats?

Snake plants, also known as Sansevieria, are considered to be mildly toxic to cats. When ingested, they can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. However, the toxicity of the plant is relatively low and typically not life-threatening for cats. It’s still important to keep snake plants out of the reach of cats to avoid any potential health issues.

Does a snake plant need sun?

Yes, snake plants require some sunlight to grow properly. They can tolerate low to moderate light conditions, but they still need some direct or indirect sunlight to photosynthesize and produce energy. It’s best to place your snake plant in a bright, indirect light location, such as near a window with filtered light, to ensure it receives adequate light without being damaged by direct sunlight. However, they can also survive in low-light conditions, although their growth rate may slow down.

How often do you water a snake plant?

Snake plants are relatively low-maintenance plants and do not require frequent watering. Overwatering can actually harm the plant and cause root rot. It’s best to allow the soil to dry out partially between waterings, typically every two to three weeks. However, the frequency of watering depends on several factors such as the amount of light, temperature, and humidity in your environment. It’s always a good idea to check the soil moisture level by inserting your finger into the soil, and only water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Do snake plants clean the air?

Yes, snake plants are known for their air-purifying qualities. They are effective at removing toxins such as benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene from the air, which can be found in common household items such as cleaning products, paint, and furniture. Snake plants are also able to convert carbon dioxide into oxygen during the night, making them a great addition to bedrooms for improving air quality. However, it’s important to note that while snake plants are beneficial, they are not a cure-all for indoor air pollution and should be used in conjunction with other air-purifying methods for optimal results.

how big do snake plants get

Snake plants, also known as Sansevieria, can vary in size depending on the species and growing conditions. Generally, they grow slowly and can reach up to 2-4 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide at maturity. However, some species of snake plants, such as the dwarf Sansevieria trifasciata ‘Hahnii‘, only grow up to 6-8 inches tall and wide. The size of the pot can also affect the growth of the plant, as snake plants prefer to be slightly root-bound. With proper care and the right growing conditions, snake plants can thrive and reach their full potential size.