What Is a Snaki Plant? How to Care for Snake Plants

The snake plant, known botanically as Dracaena trifasciata, is one of the most resilient and recognizable houseplants. For many years, it was classified under the genus Sansevieria, a name still commonly used by gardeners. In 2017, DNA analysis prompted its official reclassification into the Dracaena genus. With stiff, sword-like leaves that grow vertically, this plant is a popular choice for its striking architectural appearance and remarkable durability.

Snake Plant Care Guide

Caring for a snake plant is informed by its native habitat in the dry regions of tropical West Africa. It prefers bright, indirect sunlight but is famously tolerant of low-light conditions. In lower light, growth will slow and the coloring of variegated types may fade. Place it near an east-facing window or a few feet from a south or west-facing one, as intense, direct sun can scorch its leaves.

The most common mistake is overwatering, as their shallow roots are susceptible to rot in overly moist conditions. Use the “drench and dry” method: water the plant thoroughly until water escapes the drainage hole, then allow the soil to dry out completely. To check for dryness, insert your finger two inches into the soil. Reduce watering frequency during the winter when growth slows.

To prevent waterlogged roots, use a potting medium designed for cacti or succulents, as it provides the sharp drainage snake plants need. These mixes contain ingredients like sand or perlite that allow water to pass through freely. If using a standard potting mix, amend it by adding one part perlite or sand to two parts soil.

Snake plants adapt well to indoor environments, preferring temperatures between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They tolerate the dry air found in most homes but should be kept away from drafts or sudden temperature changes.

Benefits of Growing Snake Plants

The snake plant’s resilience makes it an ideal choice for beginners or those with busy lifestyles. Its ability to tolerate low light and infrequent watering has earned it a reputation for being nearly indestructible, allowing it to thrive with minimal attention in homes and offices.

The plant is also known for its air-purifying capabilities, as noted in the NASA Clean Air Study. It is effective at filtering common indoor pollutants like benzene and formaldehyde, which contributes to a healthier home environment.

The plant performs Crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM), a process adapted to arid climates. This means it opens its leaf pores at night to release oxygen, which is the opposite of most plants. This unique trait makes it an excellent plant for bedrooms, helping to refresh the air while you sleep.

Propagating Snake Plants

Snake plants can be propagated through division, which is best done when repotting an established plant. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and expose the rhizome that connects the leaf clusters, known as pups. Use a clean, sharp knife to cut the rhizome, separating the pups from the main plant. Ensure each new division has both leaves and roots before potting it individually in fresh, well-draining soil.

Another method is taking leaf cuttings. Select a healthy leaf and use a sterile knife to cut it into sections at least two inches long. You can root these cuttings in water by placing the bottom end of each cutting in a jar with an inch of water. Change the water weekly, and roots should form within a few weeks to a couple of months.

Once a healthy root system has developed, transfer the cuttings to a pot with well-draining soil. Alternatively, you can plant cuttings directly into soil. First, allow the cut surface to callus for a day to prevent rot. Then, insert the bottom edge about an inch deep into moist soil, where roots will establish in several weeks.

Common Snake Plant Problems

Even a hardy plant like the snake plant can encounter problems, most of which are related to improper watering. Yellowing leaves are one of the most common signs of distress and almost always point to overwatering. When the soil remains saturated, roots are deprived of oxygen and begin to fail. If you notice yellowing, check the soil and allow the plant to dry out completely before watering again.

A more severe consequence of excessive watering is a mushy base and root rot. If the base of the plant feels soft, it indicates the roots and leaves have begun to decay. To salvage the plant, remove it from its pot, cut away all rotted roots and leaves, and repot the healthy remaining portions in fresh, dry, well-draining soil.

While overwatering is the primary concern, wrinkled or puckered leaves are a sign of underwatering. Although snake plants are drought-tolerant, they do require moisture to keep their leaves firm. When the leaves look shriveled, the plant has used up its internal water reserves. A thorough watering will cause the leaves to rehydrate and return to their normal appearance.