The snake plant (Sansevieria spp.), commonly referred to as mother-in-law’s tongue, is widely considered one of the most resilient houseplants available. Known for its upright, sword-shaped leaves and tolerance to a wide range of indoor conditions, it’s an ideal option for those seeking a low-maintenance, visually appealing addition to their home or office.
The snake plant is one of the easiest houseplants to grow, adapting quickly to different indoor environments. While it tolerates neglect, proper care will keep its striking leaves glossy and healthy. Here's everything you need to know to help your snake plant thrive.
Snake plants are remarkably flexible when it comes to lighting. Whether your space is flooded with sunlight or receives only a soft ambient glow, snake plants can adapt with ease. In spring and summer, they thrive when placed near a bright window with filtered light. During autumn and winter, they are perfectly content in areas with moderate indoor lighting.
While snake plants can survive in low-light conditions, you may notice slower growth and a slight fading of their vibrant leaf color over time. On the other hand, too much direct sunlight, especially harsh midday rays through bare windows, can scorch or bleach their leaves. For best results, aim to provide bright but indirect light. A spot near an east-facing window or behind a sheer curtain is usually ideal in most New Zealand homes.
Snake plants prefer warm, stable environments to grow at their best. The ideal temperature range for healthy growth is between 18°C and 24°C. They can tolerate slightly cooler conditions but should not be exposed to temperatures below 16°C for extended periods, as colder air can slow growth and trigger signs of stress.
A mild drop in temperature overnight is natural and generally not a problem, but it's important to avoid prolonged exposure to cold drafts or sudden temperature fluctuations. During cooler months, keep your snake plant away from open windows, exterior doors, or unheated conservatories. If positioned near a window, make sure it is well-insulated or use curtains at night to protect the plant from chilly air.
Watering needs for snake plants change slightly with the seasons. During spring and summer, it’s best to water once the top two to three centimeters of soil feel dry to the touch. In autumn and winter, when growth slows, allow the soil to dry almost completely between waterings.
Snake plants are highly susceptible to overwatering, which is the most common cause of root rot. Keeping the watering routine light and letting the soil dry properly is key to maintaining a healthy, resilient plant.
Snake plants grow best in a regular, well-draining potting mix. To provide slightly more support for their strong, upright leaves, you can amend standard potting soil with a handful of sterilized garden soil to create a slightly heavier texture. Good drainage is essential, as overly compacted or water-retentive soils can increase the risk of root rot.
From late spring through early autumn, apply a balanced houseplant fertilizer once a month, diluted to half the recommended strength to avoid over-fertilizing. During the winter months, when growth naturally slows, it’s best to pause fertilization entirely.
Potting:
When choosing a pot for your snake plant, prioritize two key features: good drainage and stability. Snake plants need a pot with as many holes as possible to prevent excess water from pooling at the bottom, which can quickly lead to root rot. When choosing a pot, make sure there is about five centimeters of space between the edge of the pot and the plant itself, giving the roots enough room to expand without overwhelming them with too much soil.
Repotting:
Typically, repotting every two to three years in spring is enough to refresh the soil and allow for continued healthy growth. As snake plants grow taller, they can become top-heavy, so adding a layer of pebbles or small stones at the bottom of the pot can provide extra weight and stability to prevent tipping.
Gently wipe the leaves with a damp cloth or a microfiber towel to remove dust buildup, which can otherwise block light and reduce photosynthesis. Keeping the leaves clean not only enhances their natural glossy sheen but also supports the plant’s air-purifying ability, helping it function at its best indoors.
If you notice yellowing, damaged, or floppy leaves, use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut them off at the base near the soil. You can also trim leaf tips if they become brown or ragged. Always prune carefully, as snake plant leaves do not regenerate from a cut point — once trimmed, the leaf will not regrow its missing section.
Snake plants are incredibly versatile when it comes to placement around the house, thanks to their flexible light requirements and wide range of sizes. Tall varieties, which can grow up to 60 centimeters or more, work beautifully as statement pieces in living rooms, entryways, or hallways, where they add height and draw the eye upward. Their upright, sword-like leaves naturally create a sense of vertical space, making small rooms feel taller and more open.
Dwarf varieties, such as Golden Hahnii and Silver Hahnii, are perfect for smaller spaces like desks, bedside tables, shelves, or grouped plant displays. Their compact size allows them to fit neatly into tighter areas without overwhelming the space, while still contributing lush greenery.
Bedrooms are an especially smart place to position snake plants, as they help purify the air and produce oxygen at night, supporting better sleep. In living rooms, tall snake plants can be used to anchor furniture groupings, such as placing one next to a sofa, armchair, or media console. Their strong, upright form also pairs well with plants that have broader foliage, creating layered, visually interesting displays.
In entryways or hallways, snake plants offer a low-maintenance way to add greenery where other plants might struggle, thanks to their tolerance for temperature fluctuations and lower light. Even bathrooms with a window can be a good home for smaller snake plants, where they benefit from both filtered light and the extra humidity.
Sansevieria trifasciata, often called the classic snake plant, is effortless and elegant — a top choice for beginners. It grows up to about 60 centimeters indoors, making it perfect for adding height to rooms without overwhelming the space. Its sword-shaped leaves, often edged in yellow or patterned with silver-green bands, fit easily into almost any room style.
Trifasciata grows fast under the right conditions and thrives with minimal care, needing only bright, indirect light and occasional watering. Expect a price range between $30 and $80, depending on plant size, and enjoy a very easy maintenance routine.
Sansevieria liberica features broader, slightly curved leaves that create a fuller, more horizontal look compared to other types. It typically grows to about 60–80 centimeters indoors, offering a lush, expansive appearance ideal for living rooms or home offices.
Liberica grows at a moderate speed and prefers medium to bright indirect light, though it can adapt to lower-light spots as well. It’s easy to maintain and usually priced around $40 to $90, depending on availability. Its bold size and easygoing nature make it a standout choice for open spaces needing structure and greenery.
Sansevieria cylindrica, also known as the cylindrical snake plant, is a piece with its round, tubular leaves that grow vertically like spears. Indoors, it can reach around 40–70 centimeters tall. Its strong architectural shape makes it a favorite for minimalist and modern interiors.
Cylindrica grows slowly compared to other varieties but requires very little maintenance — thriving in both bright light and low-light conditions. Pricing typically ranges from $35 to $90 depending on size and whether the leaves are braided or left naturally fanned. With its sculptural look and hardy nature, it's a perfect plant for desks, entryways, or stylish living rooms.
Thanks to their popularity and hardy nature, snake plants are widely available across New Zealand through reputable online plant shops. Buying online makes it easy to find different varieties, pot sizes, and mature plants without needing to visit multiple garden centers.
When choosing a store, look for sellers that specialize in plants or offer specific details about the snake plant variety you're purchasing, such as its size, light needs, and potting requirements. A few trusted options include larger garden centers with online shops, specialty indoor plant retailers, and local plant nurseries that ship nationwide.
Propagating a snake plant is a simple and rewarding way to expand your collection or share plants with others. There are two common methods: division and leaf cuttings.
Division is the easiest and fastest approach. When repotting a mature snake plant, you can gently separate sections of the root ball, making sure each division has a few healthy leaves and roots attached. These sections can then be replanted into their own pots and cared for as individual plants.
Leaf cuttings offer another way to propagate, although they require a bit more patience. Using clean, sharp scissors, cut a healthy leaf near the base and allow it to dry for a day or two to callous over. Then insert the cut end into moist, well-draining soil or place it in a jar of water. If using soil, keep it lightly moist until new roots and shoots form, which can take several weeks.
The most common culprits are mealybugs and spider mites. Mealybugs hide along leaf creases and root zones, appearing as tiny, cotton-like spots. If left untreated, they can drain the plant’s energy and stunt its growth. Spider mites are even smaller but leave behind fine webs and speckled discoloration on the leaves.
To prevent infestations, it's important to regularly inspect your snake plant, especially around the leaf bases. If pests are spotted early, wiping the leaves with a damp cloth or spraying them lightly with insecticidal soap can usually keep the situation under control. Overwatering and poor air circulation can make snake plants more vulnerable to pests, so maintaining a proper care routine is your best first defense.
Although snake plants are famously tough, they can still experience a few common issues if their basic care needs aren’t met.
Overwatering remains the most serious risk, often leading to root rot, with symptoms like drooping leaves, a sour smell from the soil, and blackened roots.
Leaf yellowing can result from excess water, sudden temperature shifts, or prolonged low-light conditions, while brown, crispy leaf tips usually signal underwatering or exposure to cold drafts.
Soft, mushy leaves may indicate early stages of rot even without full root collapse, and fading leaf color often points to inadequate light, especially in variegated varieties.
Leaves curling inward can occur when the plant is left too dry for too long or as an early sign of pest infestation.
Stunted growth is another occasional problem, caused by being rootbound, low-quality soil, or a lack of nutrients. Physical damage, such as brown patches or scarring on leaves, is typically caused by cold drafts, direct sunburn, or mechanical bumps.
Fortunately, most issues can be prevented with proper watering, consistent light exposure, protection from cold air, and a gentle seasonal care routine.
Yes, snake plants can grow in water. You can propagate them by placing a healthy leaf cutting in a jar of water, ensuring only the bottom portion is submerged. Once roots develop, you can continue growing it hydroponically or transfer it into soil for stronger long-term growth.
Snake plants can survive in very low-light conditions, but they cannot truly thrive without some form of light. In extremely dark spaces, growth will be extremely slow, and the leaves may lose their vibrant color. Even a few hours of filtered daylight or artificial grow lights can help maintain healthy growth.
Snake plants are known for their air-purifying abilities. They absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, even at night, making them unique among houseplants. They can also remove small amounts of indoor air toxins like formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene, although you would need many plants to dramatically improve indoor air quality.
Blooming is rare but possible. A mature, healthy snake plant may send up a flower stalk in spring or summer, typically if it has been slightly stressed (such as being rootbound). The flowers are usually small, white, and lightly fragrant, resembling tiny lilies along a long stem.
Yes, snake plants are considered mildly toxic to pets and children if ingested. They contain saponins, natural chemical compounds that can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea if chewed or eaten. While rarely life-threatening, even small amounts can lead to discomfort. It's best to keep snake plants out of reach of curious pets like cats and dogs, and teach young children not to chew on houseplants. If accidental ingestion occurs, contacting a veterinarian or doctor is recommended.
Yes, snake plants can live outside, but only in the right climate. They prefer warm temperatures and can be grown outdoors year-round in mild, frost-free areas. In cooler regions, snake plants can be placed outdoors during the warmer months but should be brought inside before temperatures drop below 10°C. Outdoor snake plants should be positioned in partial shade to avoid leaf scorching from intense direct sun.
All snake plant varieties help purify air, but Sansevieria trifasciata 'Laurentii' and Sansevieria trifasciata 'Zeylanica' are often highlighted for their strong air-cleaning abilities. These varieties have broad, upright leaves that efficiently absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, even at night. They can also filter small amounts of indoor toxins like formaldehyde and benzene, making them a great addition to bedrooms, offices, and living spaces.
Snake plants are extremely long-lived houseplants when properly cared for. With the right light, occasional watering, and occasional repotting, a snake plant can live 10 years or longer, and many have been known to thrive for 20 to 25 years. Their slow growth rate and tough nature make them one of the most enduring indoor plants you can own.
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