Sansevieria - “Snake Plant” or “Mother in law’s tongue”



Light: Sansevieria prefers bright, filtered light, but they do tolerate lower light conditions as long as the watering is adjusted and soil is kept on the dryer side. 


Water: Snake plants prefer to be left alone for the most part. Water well, but allow soil to dry between waterings. Take extra special care not to overwater in winter. In winter, these plants will use less water, so waterings can be spaced further apart. Frequency can be as little as once per month in low light/winter, but water more when in brighter light/during the growing season. 


Environment: Keep plants in temperatures between 40º and 85ºF (4.4 to 29.4 C). Tolerant of low humidity so no misting required.


Toxicity: Reported to be potentially dangerous to cats and dogs. Chewing or ingestion can result in vomiting and diarrhea.


Of Note:

  • Caring for a snake plant is very simple. It is succulent so it does not require much water or humidity.
  • Transplant when growth reaches all sides of the pot.
  • Many species and hybrids will prefer some portion of direct sun. Watering remains similar.
    Examples would be masoniana (“whale fin”), ‘Sayuri,’ ‘Coppertone,’ ‘Bantel’s Sensation’ among others.
*When planting in a pot without a drainage hole, avoid over watering by estimating 25% of the container’s overall volume, with appropriate drainage materials incorporated when planting.