Water
Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is the most common cause of Sansevieria problems, leading to root rot.
Water less frequently in winter, and ensure good drainage in the pot to prevent waterlogging.
Also known as Ceylon Bowstring Hemp
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Sansevieria spp., commonly known as snake plants, are resilient, low-maintenance houseplants recognized for their air-purifying qualities and striking architectural folia
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Adaptable
50% intensity
Tolerates low light but prefers bright, indirect light for best growth.
Infrequent
25% intensity
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent mix.
50% intensity
Average
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-30°C; avoid prolonged exposure to cold below 10°C.
Indoor
50% intensity
Low
25% intensity
Feed sparingly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 4/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Mildly toxic if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is the most common cause of Sansevieria problems, leading to root rot.
Water less frequently in winter, and ensure good drainage in the pot to prevent waterlogging.
Pruning is minimal and usually only necessary to remove dead, damaged, or yellowing leaves. Cut the affected leaves at the base of the plant using clean, sharp scissors or a knife.
This helps maintain the plant's aesthetic appeal and prevents disease spread.
Sansevieria are easily propagated by division or leaf cuttings. Divide the rhizomes in spring, ensuring each section has at least one leaf and a portion of the rhizome.
For leaf cuttings, cut healthy leaves into 5-10 cm sections and plant them upright in moist soil.
Repot Sansevieria every 2-5 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound and fills its pot. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one.
Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent blend, to ensure good aeration.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Sansevieria Spp. (Sansevieria spp.)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Sansevieria |
| Species | Sansevieria spp. |
Similar in genus Sansevieria
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data