10 Benefits of Having a Snake Plant

The snake plant, known scientifically as Dracaena trifasciata, is a common sight in homes and offices. Often called mother-in-law’s tongue, its reputation stems from its striking architectural form and remarkable resilience. Its ability to thrive with minimal attention makes it a favorite among both new and experienced plant enthusiasts.

10 Key Benefits of the Snake Plant

Filters Indoor Air

One of the most celebrated attributes of the snake plant is its capacity for improving indoor air quality. It gained recognition following a 1989 NASA Clean Air Study, which found the plant effective in absorbing airborne toxins. These substances can include formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene. The plant absorbs these harmful compounds through small pores on its leaves, helping to create a healthier indoor atmosphere.

Releases Oxygen at Night

A unique feature of the snake plant is its ability to perform a specialized form of photosynthesis called Crassulacean Acid Metabolism, or CAM. Unlike most houseplants, CAM plants have adapted to arid environments by altering their gas exchange cycle. They open their stomata at night to take in carbon dioxide and close them during the day to prevent water loss. This process results in a net release of oxygen during the nighttime, making the snake plant an excellent choice for bedrooms.

Extremely Low Maintenance

The snake plant is renowned for its tolerance of neglect, making it an ideal choice for beginners or anyone with a busy schedule. It thrives with infrequent watering and is highly susceptible to root rot if overwatered. The plant is also adaptable to a wide range of light conditions. While it performs best in bright, indirect sunlight, it can tolerate low-light areas of a home.

Aesthetically Versatile

With its strong, upright leaves and architectural shape, the snake plant offers significant aesthetic flexibility. Its vertical lines can complement a variety of interior design schemes, from modern and minimalist to more traditional decors. The species Dracaena trifasciata includes numerous cultivars, offering a wide array of visual options. Variations exist in height, shape, and color, with some featuring dark green leaves while others have distinctive yellow margins.

May Help Reduce Allergens

The large, smooth surface area of the snake plant’s leaves can be effective in managing airborne allergens within the home. These leaves act as natural traps for dust particles, dander, and other particulates that would otherwise remain suspended in the air. The captured dust and particles can then be easily removed by periodically wiping the leaves with a damp cloth. This simple maintenance physically removes allergens from the living space.

Enhances Mental Well-being

The presence of houseplants, including the snake plant, can have a positive influence on mental well-being. This concept is related to biophilia—the innate human desire to connect with nature. Engaging with plants, even through simple acts of care, can be a calming activity that helps reduce stress levels. Caring for a living thing and watching it grow can provide a sense of purpose, and the resilience of the snake plant makes this a rewarding experience.

Symbolizes Good Fortune in Feng Shui

In the practice of Feng Shui, the snake plant is considered auspicious and is believed to bring protective and purifying energy into a space. Its upward-growing leaves are thought to symbolize growth, prosperity, and the upward movement of positive energy, or Qi. According to Feng Shui principles, placing a snake plant near the entrance can guard against negative influences. It is also recommended for placement in southern or eastern corners to attract prosperity.

Highly Durable and Long-Lasting

A snake plant can thrive for many years, often for decades, becoming a long-term fixture in a home. This durability makes it a sustainable and cost-effective choice for indoor greenery. Unlike more delicate plants that may need to be replaced periodically, a snake plant is a one-time investment. Its slow-growing nature also means it will not quickly outgrow its space, requiring less frequent repotting than faster-growing species.

Naturally Resistant to Pests

A significant practical advantage of owning a snake plant is its natural resistance to common houseplant pests. Many indoor plants are susceptible to infestations from insects like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. The snake plant’s tough, fibrous leaves seem to be unappealing to these pests. This natural resilience means that owners rarely have to deal with pest control issues, saving time and avoiding the need for chemical treatments.

Easy to Propagate

The snake plant is remarkably easy to propagate, allowing owners to create new plants to expand their collection or share with others. New plants can be started from leaf cuttings or by dividing the rhizomes, which are the underground stems from which leaves and roots grow. To propagate from a cutting, a healthy leaf can be cut into sections and placed in water or moist soil until roots develop. Division involves separating a mature plant at the rhizome into smaller sections, each of which can be potted as a new plant.

Maximizing Your Snake Plant’s Benefits

To get the most from your snake plant, a few simple care practices can enhance its natural advantages. To boost its air-purifying capabilities, wipe the leaves with a damp cloth every few weeks. This removes any accumulated dust, ensuring the leaf pores are clear to absorb airborne compounds.

Proper watering is the most important factor in ensuring the plant’s longevity. Snake plants are succulents and are highly prone to root rot if their soil remains waterlogged. You should only water the plant when the soil has completely dried out from the previous watering.

While snake plants are known for their tolerance of low light, providing them with bright, indirect light will encourage stronger growth and help maintain the vibrant colors of the leaves. Placing the plant in a well-lit room, but out of the direct path of harsh sun, will maximize its aesthetic appeal.