Snake plant care guide
Dracaena trifasciata
Also known as: Mother-in-law's tongue, Sansevieria trifasciata, Variegated snake plant
Pets and children
Considered toxic
Saponins in the leaves can cause vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and lethargy; keep it out of reach and consult a veterinarian (or a doctor, for a child) if eaten.
How often to water Snake plant
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 14 days
- Water thoroughly only after the soil has dried right through, as a guide; it stores water well, so when in doubt wait.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 20 days
- As it cools, stretch the interval and water about a week after the soil dries.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 30 days
- Keep it almost dry, moistening the soil lightly about once a month on a warm day; give no water below about 10°C.
Light and placement for Snake plant
Generally best in bright light through a sheer curtain; it tolerates shade, but in a dark spot the leaves grow thin and floppy, and midsummer sun scorches them.
Overwintering Snake plant
Overwintering guide: 5°C (41°F) or above
Tender: as a guide keep it indoors above about 10°C; kept dry it tolerates around 5°C, so place it in a bright, warm room away from cold windows and heater drafts.
Fertilizing and repotting Snake plant
Fertilizer
Slow-release fertilizer about every two months from May to September is generally enough; overfeeding softens the leaves and makes them flop, so give none from October on.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Snake plant
- Watered in winter, the roots rot and the base turns soft and topples.
- Cold exposure leaves the foliage wrinkled and blackened, then dead.
- In a dim spot the leaves grow thin and weak and the pattern fades.
Tips for growing Snake plant
- Use a fast-draining mix and keep the pot on the small side until the roots fill it.
- Division is the easy way to propagate; leaf cuttings work too but lose the variegation.
- Leaves that flop over are a sign of too little light or too much water.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
