How to Grow and Care for a Braided Snake Plant
Caring for a braided snake plant means maintaining its unique, stylized form. Learn how its structure impacts watering, health, and future growth.
A braided snake plant is a popular houseplant created by stylistically weaving the leaves of a specific species. This plant is made using Dracaena angolensis, formerly Sansevieria cylindrica, which has long, cylindrical leaves ideal for the process. While the stalks are young and flexible, growers braid them to create an intertwined appearance. This sculptural form is popular in modern decor for its architectural and low-maintenance qualities.
The Braiding Process
The creation of a braided snake plant is a procedure performed by experienced growers. The process involves selecting a young plant with several pliable, spear-like leaves. These individual stalks are then gently woven together into a plait, with the tension carefully managed to avoid snapping the succulent leaves.
Once the braid is formed, it is secured at the top with a soft tie, such as raffia or string, to hold the shape as the plant establishes itself. This process is done with plants that have at least three to four stems of sufficient length. Attempting to replicate this at home can be difficult and may damage the plant’s leaves if not done with care.
Braided Snake Plant Care
Light
A braided snake plant thrives in bright, indirect sunlight, which helps it maintain vibrant color and supports steady growth. It can adapt to lower light conditions, but its growth may slow significantly. Direct, intense sunlight should be avoided, as it can scorch the leaves.
Water
These plants are highly susceptible to root rot, so the soil should be allowed to dry out completely between waterings. Apply water directly to the soil at the base of the plant. Avoid pouring water over the braided leaves, as moisture trapped in the crevices can lead to fungal growth. During winter, watering frequency should be reduced.
Soil
A braided snake plant requires a potting medium that offers excellent drainage to prevent water from accumulating around its roots. A cactus or succulent mix is an ideal choice. For those mixing their own soil, combining standard potting soil with materials like perlite or pumice will improve aeration and drainage.
Temperature and Humidity
This plant prefers average room temperatures between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate a wide range of household humidity levels and does not require special accommodations like misting. The plant should be protected from drafts and sudden temperature drops, which can cause stress.
Growth and Long-Term Maintenance
The existing braided portion of the plant will not grow taller, but the individual stems may thicken over time. As the plant matures, new growth will emerge from the soil as individual, unbraided pups. This new growth will not be part of the original braid.
Owners have two options for managing these new pups. They can be left to grow alongside the main braid for a fuller appearance, or they can be separated and propagated once they are a few inches tall. This allows you to maintain the clean, sculptural look of the original braid. The tie at the top of the braid may need to be adjusted or replaced as the stems expand.
Common Issues
Fungal rot is a primary concern and can develop within the tight crevices of the braid if water sits between the leaves. The weave can also provide a hiding place for pests like mealybugs or spider mites, so regular inspection of these tight spaces is a good practice.
Another potential issue is the unraveling of the braid, as the tie holding it together can degrade or break over time. If this happens, re-secure the top of the leaves with a new, soft plant tie to maintain its shape.