15 Amazing Facts You Didn’t Know About Snake Plant

If you are thinking of getting a Snake Plant for your indoor or outdoor garden, you should learn more about the plant first. Here is everything you need to know about Snake Plants to grow a healthy and gorgeous succulent.

The snake plant is a popular tropical plant known for its versatility. The plant features tall leaves and different color variations.

This easy-to-grow plant is known for its ability to clean the air and adapt well in many conditions. Although it can tolerate low light, the best place for your snake plant is a bright location with indirect sunlight. The more sun, the better the leaves appear. But, no matter what kind of location you place the snake plant in; it will be a welcome addition to any room.

The snake plant is one of the best succulent plants you can have, thanks to its beauty and the many benefits indoors. If you want to find out more about this wonderful plant, keep reading.

Snake Plant Facts

1. Snake Plant Has Many Names

The scientific name of the snake plant is Sansevieria Trifasciata because it belongs to the Sansevieria family. The plant also has a nickname; Devil’s Tongue or Mother-in-Law’s Tongue. 

Other names of snake plants include Bowstring Hemp, Ribbon Plant, Snake Palm, Bow Tie Plant, Friendship Tree, Goldband Sansevieria, Silver Queen, and Life plant. This succulent indeed boasts of amazing titles.

Snake Plant, also referred to as Sansevieria Trifasciata, has plenty of nicknames.

2. Snake Plant is Native to Africa

The origin of the snake plant is the tropical regions of Africa, Madagascar, and some parts of Asia. The plant makes an important part of African culture where it’s deemed a symbol of good luck and fertility.

Others believe that the plant provides spiritual protection and is used to cast out evil spirits. It’s also a symbol of the African gods, such as the god of war.

For the Chinese, this plant also has many meanings. It’s seen as a symbol of heroism, and the snake is one of their favorite creatures. They also see the plant as a sign that good fortune will come soon. The plant is also associated with good feng shui as you can use it as bedroom decor.

3. Snake Plant Is Not Cactus

SansevieriaTrifasciata is not a cactus; however, it does belong to the succulent family. Many people tend to confuse it with a cactus due to its appearance. The leaves of the plant are thick and fleshy, which makes it resemble a cactus. In fact, the snake plant has the same structure as aloe vera, jade plant, and agave plants. The plant also has care requirements that almost resemble those of cacti.

While the Snake Plant belongs to the succulent family, it is not a cactus.

4. Snake Plant Can Easily Adapt To Different Environments

The snake plant is very versatile and easy to take care of. It can grow in different environments. You will probably give it too much water if you place it in a humid atmosphere. However,  a dry environment might not be suitable for your plant.

The snake plant will be happy growing in a room with little sunlight, but you can also place it indirect light. However, make sure to do this gradually as too much sun is not good for your plant. But if you place the plant in dim conditions, it might form brown spots on the leaves.

5. Snake Plant Can Remove Toxins and Improve Air Quality

One of the most interesting facts about this plant is that it can remove toxins from the air we breathe. It also absorbs carbon dioxide and releases oxygen at night. This attribute is an excellent benefit for those who sleep with their windows closed. This allows you to create clean air for your bedroom. Its air purification quality has earned the plant a perfect place in the bedroom.

6. Snake Plant Is a Busy Little Plant

The snake plant is considered a busy plant because it regulates the transpiration rate. The plant can regulate these processes to grow in hot and dry conditions. However, this also makes the snake plant adaptable. So if you place your snake plant in a humid environment, it will still have the same success as if it were in a dry area.

7. Snake Plant Is Easy To Care For

The Sansevieria Trifasciata is an excellent houseplant for beginners, thanks to its easy care. If you’re starting with indoor plants, the Sansevieria will be a perfect choice. It’s easy to care for and adapt to different environments, making it one of the easiest houseplants to grow.

The snake plant is an easy-to-grow houseplant that only requires a few basic care tips. You need to place your plant in indirect sunlight and water it once every two weeks. This plant is not too demanding when it comes to caring needs and is a perfect plant for those who have a busy lifestyle or those just starting their gardening journey.

Snake Plant is a low-maintenance houseplant, making it an ideal plant for beginners and busy people.

8. Snake Plant Is Popular All Over the World

The snake plant is extremely popular everywhere around the world. This succulent plant is widespread in America, Europe, and Asia. It’s found in most nurseries and retail stores across the globe.

The reason behind its popularity must be due to its adaptability and easy care. When cared for properly, the snake plant will be able to retain its strong appearance. The plant requires little attention and makes an interesting addition to any living space or office.

9. Snake Plant Makes a Good Gift

The snake plant is also popular because it’s the ideal “thank you” gift after someone has had a baby. If you know someone who just recently gave birth, this is an excellent houseplant to give them as a gift. It’s also great for newlyweds. So the next time you’re planning on giving someone a housewarming gift or want to treat yourself, get your own snake plant.

10. Snake Plant Is Related to the Agave and Aloe Plants

The snake plant is related to two popular succulent plants: aloe vera and agave. This means that if you have experience growing either the aloe or agave plant, you will find it very easy to grow a snake plant because of their similarities. They all require similar water needs and temperature requirements which makes caring for the snake plant very easy.

Snake Plant, Agave, and Aloe Vera have similar water needs and temperature requirements.

11. Snake Plants Prefer Being Dry

Since these plants are native to drylands, they do not like wet feet. Make sure to remove excess water from the pot and place it in a dry area. An easy way to tell if your snake plant needs watering is by touching the soil – if it’s moist, do not water it.

The snake plant prefers its soil to be completely dry before you start watering it again. The plants are capable of storing water and can survive long periods of drought. Overwatering these plants can cause root rot.

12. Be Careful With the Leaves

It’s important to use caution when handling snake plants. You do not want to get cut or scratched because the leaves and edges of the plant are sharp and will cause a nasty cut that you don’t want.

13. Snake Plant Flowers

Did you know that the Sansevieria Trifasciata is also known to produce beautiful flowers? This happens in June and July, allowing for an interesting treat for your eyes when you spot flower buds on your plant. The snake plant will grow small white flowers that closely resemble aloe blooms.

14. It Repels Mosquitoes and Pests

The snake plant is a popular decoration for bathrooms and kitchens because it repels mosquitoes and other insects. This makes the Sansevieria Trifasciata an excellent choice as an indoor plant if you live in areas where you’re exposed to these pesky insects.

15. The Plants are Not Pet Friendly

If you have cats and dogs in your home, you should learn to keep them from your precious snake plants. The plants are toxic to your pets, so keep them out of their reach. The snake plant can cause pet poisoning if ingested or chewed on by an animal. It’s best not to have this plant anywhere near places where your precious pets can roam freely.

Frequently Asked Questions about Snake Plants

Why is the plant called snake plant?

There are multiple explanations for this. One account tells of the plant’s ability to kill a snake if it touches one. Another story suggests that it’s because the leaves are shaped like snakes, making them look slithery. Yet another version says that the name is due to the sharpness of the leaves, which can cut you easily if you’re not careful.

Can the plant cause skin irritation?

Yes, if you get cut or scratched by a snake plant leaf, you can develop a rash on your skin. The leaves of these plants are sharp and can injure you easily if you’re not careful.

What color flowers will the plant produce?

The snake plant will produce pink or white flowers that resemble aloes. These blooms are usually spotted in June and July.

Summary

If you’re looking for a new houseplant to buy, consider adding one of the majestic Sansevieria to your living space or office. This award-winning plant will surely bring life to any room it’s added in and is considered one of the best plants you can keep indoors.

They are easy to care for, are adaptive, and have a long list of benefits that you’ll enjoy. If you’re a beginner in indoor gardening and looking for the best plants to start with,  you can’t go wrong with the Sansevieria Trifasciata.

Last update on 2022-12-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

read this next

Are you searching for low light houseplants? Do you want a way to decorate your home without bright sunlight from outside? There are many plants that can do well in the artificial light indoors. You can easily add some greenery to your living with these plants
Cactus plants are desert plants, meaning they grow in arid conditions. Some types of cactus also grow in Mexico, Southwestern United States and the Caribbean. There is an interesting variety of different cacti that thrive in drier areas
Cacti are incredibly strong plants but they are also sensitive and should be treated with care. They are best served being slightly neglected over being micro-managed with too much water or interference
Echeveria Elegans is a succulent houseplant and are well known for their bright, colorful and ornamental foliage (the leaves are the plant parts). The Echeveria species originate from Mexico and they grow fast. The plant has a characteristic shape that resembles an Aloe plant, but with more contrasting and beautiful color.
Aeonium needs more sunlight than most other succulent species. It requires at least full sun and partial shade is sufficient in winter and cloudy days. Aeonium is a succulent with broad leaves, so it has the ability to photosynthesize much more efficiently compared to other succulent plants.
Cacti are family within the broader category of succulents. The primary difference between the families is the presence of areoles and spines in cacti, physical appearance is often the best way to determine the difference between the two upon visual inspection
The crown of thorns plant has a few characteristics that set it apart from other plants. The purple and yellow flowers along the stem and the spines on its leaves give the plant a rugged yet beautiful appearance. The crown of thorns plant does not require much maintenance and can thrive in containers or in the ground.
Although cacti plants are hardy, they still require proper watering to thrive. Generally, the watering technique you choose to use will have a significant impact on the overall health of your plant
Echeveria are popular succulents that make wonderful houseplants. These stunning plants can be found in many stores, but propagating an Echeveria yourself is much easier than you might think!
Cacti Vs. Succulents: If you’re new to the world of succulents, or are looking to purchase your first piece, it may be helpful to compare the two most common types of fleshy stemmed plants. Though they are similar in appearance, cactus vs. succulent stems have distinct visual differences that set them apart.
When it comes to desert rose ( Adenium obesum ) care, there’s a lot of misunderstanding. Mistakes caused by misinformation can be very costly in terms of plant health. Here are four golden rules to help you water this lovely but hardy succulent positively.
Many people can’t keep their houseplants alive and end up disappointed. However, there is a beautiful solution to having the lush green thumb. Grow low care plants indoors. This article will give you ideas for low maintenance plants that only need to be watered occasionally and will leave with a mini cactus garden to brighten up your home year round.
The snake plant is an interesting succulent. While its growth and care may not be as complicated, it can get challenging for beginners. Get the most reliable care tips from expert arborists and take your home gardening to the next level.

Receive the latest news

Get Our Cacti Newsletter

Stay updated with the latest facts, tips, advice, and more!

Your privacy is important to us.