Table of Contents
Introduction
Also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, the snake plant is a favored and robust houseplant characterized by its rigid, sword-shaped leaves. It comes in several varieties, featuring green-banded or striped leaves often edged in yellow or cream.
Due to its resilience to drought and low light conditions, this appealing and low-maintenance plant is an excellent choice for settings such as office spaces.
Characteristics
Common Name and Botanical Aspects
- Common Name: Snake plant, mother-in-law plant, mother-in-law’s tongue
- Botanical Name: Dracaena trifasciata
- Family: Asparagaceae
- Plant Type: Evergreen perennial typically grown as a houseplant
- Mature Size: 6 inches to 12 feet tall in native habitat depending on variety; typically 2 feet tall when grown as a houseplant
- Sun Exposure: Sun to part shade
- Soil Type: Sandy, well-drained
- Soil pH: Slightly acidic to slightly alkaline
- Bloom Time: Spring
- Flower Color: White
- Hardiness Zones: 9–11 (USDA)
- Native Area: West Africa
- Toxicity: Toxic to cats and dogs
Essential Care Tips for Snake Plants & Encouraging Them to Bloom
The snake plant is an excellent option for beginner gardeners due to its adaptability to various growing conditions. As a low-maintenance indoor container plant, it provides decorative appeal to any space.
To prompt indoor blooming in your snake plant, ensure it receives ample sunlight and becomes rootbound, although it’s rare for snake plants grown indoors to flower.
Under optimal conditions, they can yield soft, creamy-white, tubular blooms. These night-blooming flowers emit a pleasant fragrance and resemble lilies in their appearance.
However, it’s important to select a flowering cultivar, as not all varieties of snake plants are capable of producing blooms.
Light
Snake plants thrive when exposed to eight to ten hours of indirect sunlight or a couple of hours of early morning direct sunlight. Excessive direct sunlight can burn the plant and harm its leaves. While they can withstand some shade, insufficient light may impede growth and cause the plant’s color to fade.
Soil
When grown indoors, snake plants favor a light, well-draining potting mix. They thrive in sandier soils, making an all-purpose cactus potting mix an ideal option. It’s best to steer clear of soil blends with a high peat content, as they tend to hold excessive moisture.
Water
Water your snake plant only when the soil is thoroughly dry, then water it thoroughly. In the winter, inspect the soil every couple of weeks, as the plant may only require watering once a month. If the leaves appear brittle and dry, water the plant right away.
In the growing season of spring and summer, watering approximately every two weeks should suffice. Remember, overwatering is the fastest way to harm a snake plant. Excess water or allowing the plant to sit in stagnant water can lead to root rot. If you notice the leaves turning yellow, it’s often a sign of overwatering.
Temperature and Humidity
Snake plants flourish optimally in warm conditions, thriving in temperatures ranging from 70°F to 90°F. It’s important to protect them from cold drafts.
Exposure to frost or temperatures consistently below 50°F can be lethal to the plant. They are well-suited to typical household humidity levels, which generally range between 30 and 50 percent.
Fertilizer
Fertilize your snake plant twice a year, once in the spring and again in mid-summer, using a balanced, slow-release 10-10-10 fertilizer at half the recommended strength. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months.
Varieties of Cattleya Orchids
- Dracaena trifasciata ‘Hahnii’: Known as the bird’s nest snake plant, ‘Hahnii’ reaches a height of just six inches.
- Dracaena angolensi: This type of cylindrical snake plant boasts round, rigid leaves that are several feet long and arc outwards from a central point.
- Dracaena trifasciata ‘Laurentii’: This variegated variety features creamy yellow edges on its leaves.
- Dracaena trifasciata ‘Twisted Sister’: Characterized by twisting leaves with horizontal stripes and yellow variegated borders, this plant grows up to 15 inches tall.
- Dracaena trifasciata ‘Bantel’s Sensation’: This variety stands around three feet tall and has narrow leaves with white vertical stripes.
- Dracaena pearsonii: Also referred to as rhino grass, it has succulent, red-tinted leaves and grows up to 12 inches in height.
Pruning
Trim snake plants in their growing season to stimulate fresh growth. To manage their height, use a sterile cutting tool to snip off the tallest leaves at the base, near the soil line. While damaged leaves can be removed whenever necessary, pruning during winter may stress the plant.
How to Propagate a Snake Plant
You can propagate your snake plant in spring or summer through cuttings or division, provided the plants are at least four inches tall. Any new offshoots that appear
You can propagate your snake plant in spring or summer through cuttings or division, provided the plants are at least four inches tall. Any new offshoots that appear can also be planted separately. Here are the steps for propagating your snake plant.
Guide to Propagating Snake Plants Through Division
Here’s a step-by-step guide to propagate your snake plant by division:
Preparation:
- Gather a sharp, clean knife.
- Have a clean pot ready.
- Obtain potting soil suitable for cacti and succulents.
Removing the Plant:
- Carefully take the snake plant out of its pot.
- Place it on a flat surface.
- Gently brush off the soil to expose the root structure or rhizome.
Dividing the Plant:
- Use the knife to cut the plant into sections. Make sure each section has some roots attached.
Repotting:
- Plant each divided section in a clean pot filled with the cactus and succulent potting soil.
Post-Planting Care:
- Water the newly potted sections.
- Position them in a location with partial sunlight.
Handling Offshoots (Pups):
- If there are baby plants (pups) emerging from the soil, use the same division method.
- Carefully remove each pup and repot it in its own container.
How to Propagate Snake Plant from Leaf Cuttings
Here’s a step-by-step guide to propagating a snake plant using leaf cuttings:
Cutting the Leaf:
- Use a sterile cutting tool to carefully remove a long, healthy leaf from its base.
Rooting the Cutting:
- Option 1 (Water Rooting):
- Place the cut end of the leaf into a clean jar of water.
- Set the jar in a location with partial sunlight.
- Option 2 (Soil Rooting):
- Let the cut end of the leaf callous over for 24 hours.
- Then, plant it cut-end down in a pot.
- Option 1 (Water Rooting):
Maintenance for Water Rooting:
- If using the water rooting method, change the water every two weeks.
Root Development:
- Roots will start to develop within one to four months.
- Wait until they are about one inch long.
Planting the Rooted Cutting:
- Transfer the rooted cutting to a pot filled with cactus potting mix.
Post-Planting Care:
- Water the newly potted cutting.
- Place it in a spot that receives bright, indirect light.
Potting and Repotting Snake Plant
Repotting Frequency:
- Repot your snake plant every three to five years.
- Signs it’s time to repot include roots emerging from the pot’s drainage holes, water draining too quickly, the roots occupying the entire pot, or the plant showing stunted growth and a lackluster appearance.
Choosing the Right Pot:
- Opt for wide, shallow pots with ample drainage holes.
- The diameter of the pot should be about twice the size of the plant’s root ball.
- Select a sturdy material like ceramic, terracotta, or clay. Snake plants have strong roots that can break plastic containers. Terracotta pots are especially good as they help absorb excess moisture, reducing the risk of overwatering.
Timing for Repotting:
- Repot when the roots are overcrowded or the plant outgrows its current pot.
- The ideal time for repotting is in the spring.
- Ensure the plant is placed at the same depth as it was in its previous pot in the new container, which should be about two inches wider.
Overwintering
Snake plants cannot withstand temperatures below 50°F. If you have one outdoors, it’s important to move it inside to a warm location, safe from chilly drafts. During its winter dormancy period, cut back on watering and ensure the soil is completely dry before watering again.
Common Pests & Plant Diseases
Snake plants can attract typical houseplant pests like scales, gnats, spider mites, aphids, mealybugs, and whiteflies. Many of these can be eliminated manually or with a soft water spray. For more severe infestations, using neem oil is an effective treatment.
Common Problems With Snake Plant
Snake plants are among the most low-maintenance and long-lasting plants. The majority of issues they encounter, such as fungal infections and root rot, are often due to overwatering.
Foul-smelling Soil
If the soil emits a bad smell, it’s likely that the plant is suffering from root rot. Take the plant out of its pot to check the roots and see if it’s still salvageable. Trim off any brown, soft roots and leaves, and then replant the healthy part of the rhizome.
Yellow or Brown Leaves
The leaves of a healthy snake plant are green, often bordered with cream, yellow, or white. If the leaves turn yellow or brown, it could be a sign of overwatering, pest infestation, or root rot. To prevent these issues, ensure a suitable watering routine, watering only when the soil is completely dry.
Curling Leaves
Thrips are a frequent pest that can lead to leaf curling. If you notice this issue, trim away heavily affected leaves and use neem oil spray to deter these small pests.
Leaves Falling Over or Drooping
Healthy snake plant leaves typically grow upright and remain erect. However, excessive watering, inadequate light, or inappropriate potting soil can result in leaves drooping or bending over. To address this issue, relocate the plant to a brighter spot, reduce the frequency of watering, and consider repotting it with a well-draining soil mix.
Benefits of Snake Plant
Snake plants, also known as Sansevieria or mother-in-law’s tongue, are popular indoor plants due to their striking appearance and numerous benefits. Here are some of the key benefits of having a snake plant:
Air Purification: One of the most significant benefits of snake plants is their ability to purify the air. They are particularly adept at removing toxins such as formaldehyde, xylene, toluene, and nitrogen oxides, making them excellent for improving indoor air quality.
Low Maintenance: Snake plants are very hardy and can survive with minimal care. They do well in low light conditions and require infrequent watering, making them ideal for busy individuals or those who are new to keeping houseplants.
Improves Indoor Air Quality at Night: Unlike most plants, snake plants continue to absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen during the night. This makes them an excellent plant for bedrooms, as they can improve air quality while you sleep.
Aesthetic Appeal: With their upright, structured form and variegated green and yellow leaves, snake plants can add a modern and stylish element to any interior design.
Drought Tolerant: They are very drought tolerant, making them a great choice for people who forget to water their plants regularly.
Humidity Resistance: Snake plants can tolerate and thrive in a range of humidity levels, which is beneficial in both dry and humid environments.
Natural Air Humidifier: By releasing moisture into the air through a process called transpiration, snake plants can act as natural humidifiers, which is beneficial for keeping indoor air comfortable.
Space Efficient: Their upright growth habit means they take up less horizontal space, making them ideal for smaller living spaces or for adding greenery without taking up much room.
Therapeutic Benefits: Caring for plants, including snake plants, can be therapeutic and may contribute to reduced stress levels and improved mental well-being.
Pest Resistant: Snake plants are resistant to pests and can be less prone to insect infestations compared to other houseplants.
It’s important to note that snake plants are mildly toxic when ingested, so they should be kept away from pets and small children. Despite this, their ease of care and health benefits make them a popular choice for both homes and offices.
FAQs
Why is it called a snake plant?
The snake plant got its name due to the resemblance of its long, slender leaves, adorned with unique stripes and markings, to certain snake species.
Are Snake Plants toxic to dogs?
Yes, Snake Plants (Sansevieria) are toxic to dogs. They contain toxins that can be harmful to dogs if ingested. It’s important to keep Snake Plants out of reach of pets and seek immediate veterinary attention if you suspect your dog has consumed any part of the plant.
Are Snake Plants toxic to cats?
Yes, Snake Plants (Sansevieria) are toxic to cats. They contain compounds that can be harmful if ingested by cats. It’s advisable to keep Snake Plants out of reach of cats or choose non-toxic houseplants if you have feline companions.
How fast does a snake plant grow?
Snake plants are slow-growing plants, and their growth can be stimulated by seasonal changes. During the summer months, placing them in a partially shaded outdoor location can encourage faster growth.
How long does a snake plant live?
A snake plant typically has an average lifespan of five to ten years, but it can live for 25 years or even longer under the right conditions.
What's the difference between Nassauvia serpens and Dracaena trifasciata?
Despite both being referred to as “snake plant,” Nassauvia serpens and Dracaena trifasciata are not related. Nassauvia serpens is a perennial shrub in the aster family, native to the Falkland Islands. Dracaena trifasciata, on the other hand, belongs to a different botanical family and is known as the snake plant commonly kept as a houseplant.
How big do snake plants get?
When cultivated as indoor plants, snake plants can reach a height of approximately three feet.
Are snake plants succulents?
Yes, snake plants (Sansevieria) are often considered succulent plants due to their ability to store water in their leaves. They have thick, fleshy leaves that allow them to tolerate periods of drought, which is a characteristic of succulent plants.
Can snake plants grow in water?
Yes, snake plants can be grown in water. They are quite adaptable and can be propagated by placing cuttings or leaves in water until they develop roots. However, it’s important to note that snake plants grown in water may have different care requirements than those grown in soil. They should still receive some indirect light, and the water should be changed regularly to prevent stagnation and maintain water quality. Additionally, once the roots have developed in water, the plant can be transferred to soil for more stable long-term growth.
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