Explore Snake Plant Varieties — Chic, Green Sentinels for Every Home

Are you looking for a versatile addition to your collection of indoor plants to elevate your home decor into a calming oasis? 

The sturdy, upright, and variegated leaves of this genus add a perfect touch of a minimalistic vibe and aesthetic appeal, and embrace a dramatic and structural essence to your modern homes.

Be it compact indoor spaces or capacious balcony gardens, there are plenty of Snake Plant varieties that are ideal for small dwellings and modest apartments.

Besides the visual allure, it holds an exceptional ability to fix the indoor air quality and eliminate toxic pollutants, and convert your home into a much healthier environment. You can also count on it as one of the air-purifying bedroom plants that promote sound sleep.

Delve into this article and discover the unique types of Snake Plants and their essential know-how.

Explore the Snake Plant Varieties – A Stylish and Sustainable Choice For Every Home

Snake Plants, also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, Sansevieria, and Snake Tongue, a showy evergreen perennials native to tropical regions of West Africa, including Nigeria and the Congo Republic. 

It is also found that Sansevieria, formerly classified as a genus under the Asparagaceae family, has been placed in the genus Dracaena in the year 2017, based on phylogenetic data. 

There are at least 70 different types of D. trifasciata that differ in size, shape, and leaves. From tall structural foliage to compact rosettes, let us glance over 15 Snake Plant types that bring beauty and benefits to any home.

This cultivar is appreciated for its upright sword-like leaves, vigorous yellow variegated edges, and horizontal green stripes. With its low-demanding character, Laurentii is a popular choice amongst novice gardeners as well as seasonal fauna lovers.  

Category	Details
Scientific Name	Dracaena trifasciata ‘Laurentii’
Common Name	Variegated Snake Plant, Gold Edged Snake Plant, Mother-In-Law’s Tongue
Family	Asparagaceae
Origin	Tropical and subtropical regions of West Africa
Mature Size	2-4 feet tall and 2 feet wide, but it is often smaller indoors.
Blooms	Indoor specimens rarely bloom, but the mature ones yield greenish white flowers along a slender spike in their native environment.
Watering	It can thrive for long stretches without water. Check for dryness of the soil between watering sessions.
Soil Type	A well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix is ideal.
Temperature	Thrives best in temperatures between 15 °C and 29 °C. Protect it from extreme frosts.
Propagation	These can be easily propagated in water as well as soil using leaf cutting, divisions, or rhizome separations.

Comparatively, less variegated leaves, along with silverish green foliage and dark green narrow margins, make it an alluring green companion that creates a subtle, soft, minimalistic touch to your modern homes.

It is a popular choice for both beginners and seasoned lovers due to its aesthetic appeal and easy care. The compact size makes these green marvels a perfect fit for tabletops, shelves, and tight spaces.

Category	Details
Scientific Name	Dracaena trifasciata ‘Moonshine’
Common Name	Moonshine Snake Plant, Silver Snake Plant
Family	Asparagaceae
Origin	Native to tropical West Africa
Mature Size	12-18 inches tall and 6-8 inches wide.
Blooms	It rarely blooms, but mature ones may yield white, green flowers in their native surroundings.
Watering	Drought tolerant and prefers less watering.
Soil Type	Well-draining succulent mix soil is ideal.
Temperature	The ideal temperature range is between 18°C – 27°C, protecting it from extreme cold and frosts.
Propagation	Easily propagates through leaf cuttings and divisions.

This cultivar is an evergreen perennial with silver and green stripes and pointed edges. It can grace your homes silently without asking much in return. 

These are easy to care for, hassle-free, and able to thrive in diverse light and climatic conditions, and elevate any space they are kept in.

Category	Details
Scientific Name	Dracaena trifasciata ‘Zeylanica’
Common Name	Zeylanica Snake Plant, Sansevieria Zeylanica
Family	Asparagaceae
Origin	Native to Southeast Asia and tropical West Africa. It is commonly found in SriLanka and India.
Mature Size	It can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and 2-2.4 inches wide.
Blooms	Rare blooms; bears whitish green flowers with mild fragrance.
Watering	Water only when the soil seems dry.
Soil Type	It grows best in well-draining soil with sand and loam mixed in it.
Temperature	Ideal temperature range is between 16 °C – 30 °C; protect from frost temperatures below 10C
Propagation	It can easily be propagated using leaf cuttings, divisions, and rhizome separations.

The beautiful natural contrast of dark green foliage and golden margins makes it one of a kind. Besides the visual interest, it is mostly celebrated for its easy-going nature and adaptability. It also eliminates the toxic pollutants and promotes a healthier indoor space.

Category	Details
Scientific Name	Dracaena trifasciana ‘Black Gold’
Common Name	Black Gold Snake Plant, Sansevieria Black Gold, Hahnii Black Gold
Family	Asparagaceae
Origin	Originates from tropical West Africa, especially from Nigeria, east to the Congo.
Mature Size	It grows up to 2-3 feet tall and 1 foot wide.
Blooms	Rarely blooms; mature ones may yield white flowers
Watering	Monitor the dryness of the soil between watering sessions. Allow the soil to dry out completely.
Soil Type	Well-draining cactus or succulent mix soil, where one part is of perlite and sand, and the other part comprises garden soil and peat.
Temperature	The ideal temperature range is between 16 °C- 29 °C; it prefers warm conditions and dry air.
Propagation	These cultivars can be easily propagated through rhizome separations and mature leaf cuttings.

It is one of the compact varieties which features thick, crooked leaves with blunt edges. The vibrant yellow, gold and green variegated foliage brings in a stunning visual appeal. 

With minimal care and supervision, these curling beauties are ideal for tabletops, centrepieces, tight corners, and shelves. 

Category	Details
Scientific Name	Dracaena trifasciata ‘Twisted Sister’
Common Name	Twisted Sister Snake Plant, Sansevieria Twisted Sister
Family	Asparagaceae
Origin	Recent development of the broader species that originates in tropical regions of West Africa.
Mature Size	It grows up to 10–15 inches tall.
Blooms	Rarely blooms; mature ones yield white or greenish flowers very seldom.
Watering	Highly adaptable to drought conditions; minimal watering is needed only when the soil dries out completely.
Soil Type	A well-draining cactus and succulent soil mixed with perlite and coarse sand is ideal.
Temperature	It prospers in an ideal room temperature between 15°C- 27°C; ensure protection in temperatures below 10°C.
Propagation	Easily propagates through leaf cutting and divisions.

This cultivar is unique in itself, as it limits itself to an average of 4–5 leaves whorled together in a petal-like formation. It features glossy, showy appearance with dark green foliage and silvery green variegations. 

The compact nature and low maintenance make it a perfect fit for tight spaces, desks, and windowsills. Besides, it was also a part of the clean air herbage study led by NASA, which found it to be extremely useful in reducing indoor air pollutants.

Category	Details
Scientific Name	Dracaena trifasciata ‘Whitney’
Common Name	Whitney Snake Plant, Silver Flame Snake Plant
Family	Asparagaceae
Origin	Succulent native to Africa and Madagascar
Mature Size	12-16 inches tall and 6-8 inches wide; ideal for limited space
Blooms	Rarely blooms indoors with petite white flowers.
Watering	During warm climates, watering once a week is sufficient.
Soil Type	A well-draining soil mix with efficient drainage is ideal.
Temperature	It prospers in a temperature range of 15 °C- 29 °C, but a sudden drop in temperature can damage the leafy sentinel; protect it from winter drafts and frosts.
Propagation	Easily propagates through leaf cutting and rhizome separation.

Do you want to bring height and elegance to your room at the same time? Say hello to this amazing cultivar, Bantel’s Sensation. Tall and vertical structure with green foliage and white sleek stripes makes it a standout leafy sentinel.

It is also widely appreciated for its low maintenance and needs, and dramatic contrast, which heightens the place’s charm manyfold.

Category	Details
Scientific Name	Dracaena trifasciata ‘Bantel’s Sensation’
Common Name	White Snake Plant, Bantel’s Sensation Snake Plant
Family	Asparagaceae
Origin	A cultivar developed through horticultural selective breeding in Missouri, USA.
Mature Size	It grows up to 60-90 cm tall and 2-2.5 cm wide.
Blooms	Rarely flowers; mature ones yield small white flowers in their native surroundings.
Watering	Very minimal watering needs; water only when the soil dries out completely.
Soil Type	A well-draining cactus or succulent mix soil is apt for the best results.
Temperature	It prefers low humidity and prospers in ideal temperatures between 16 °C and 28 °C.
Propagation	Easily propagates through leaf cuttings and rhizome separations.

As the name suggests, this cultivar is widely celebrated for its silver-green foliage and light green horizontal bands. The tall, flat, sword-shaped leaves and upright stance make it a statement piece for modern homes and aesthetic interiors.

Category	Details
Scientific Name	Dracaena trifasciata ‘Silver Queen’
Common Name	Silver Queen Snake Plant
Family	Asparagaceae
Origin	Tropical regions of Africa, Southern Asia, and Australia
Mature Size	It grows up to 30-90 cm tall and 15-90cm wide.
Blooms	Rarely blooms indoors; mature ones bear small, white small fragrant flowers in their native surroundings.
Watering	During the dry spells, water them every 2-3 weeks, and during winter, watering once a month is sufficient for the best results.
Soil Type	A well-draining cactus and succulents potting mix with proper drainage is apt for growth.
Temperature	It prospers under average room temperatures between 16 °C- 29 °C. Ensure to protect it from cold drafts and frosts.
Propagation	Easily propagates through leaf cuttings and rhizome divisions.

Among all the other Sansevieria varieties, this cultivar is one of the rarest to find. It features enormous paddle-like leaves with a bright green tint, light green blotches, and reddish brown margins. 

With a unique demeanor and distinguished personality, it surely is a crown jewel of your indoor fauna collections.

Category	Details
Scientific Name	Dracaena masoniana
Common Name	Whale Fin Snake Plant, Mason’s Congo
Family	Asparagaceae
Origin	It had originated from the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Mature Size	Grows up to 2-4 feet tall and 10-18 inches wide, but each leaf can grow very wide like a whale’s fin.
Blooms	Rarely blooms indoors; it may bloom small, fragrant flowers in its native surroundings.
Watering	It is drought-tolerant and sensitive to overwatering. Ensure the soil completely dries out between watering sessions.
Soil Type	A well-draining succulent and cactus soil mix with some pumice or perlite is ideal for optimum growth.
Temperature	Prefers warm climates; a temperature range of 18 °C – 29 °C suits the plan best. It may be sensitive to temperatures below 10°C.
Propagation	Easily propagates through leaf cuttings and rhizome divisions. Although the leaf propagation is comparatively slow and tricky.

If you are looking to infuse geometry and modern flair into your interior scapes, this cultivar is the perfect choice. It features greyish green colored leaves with dark green stripes, and is structurally stiff, cylindrical, and pointed outwards. 

This ornamental sentinel is usually considered slow-growing and is suitable for gracing container pots, indoor areas, and balcony gardens.

Category	Details
Scientific Name	Dracaena angolensis
Common Name	Cylindrical Snake Plant, African Spear Plant, Spear Sansevieria
Family	Asparagaceae
Origin	Angola and the surrounding regions of Southern Africa
Mature Size	It can grow up to 4-7 feet tall. Individual leaves can grow around 1-2 inches thick.
Blooms	Rarely blooms indoors; mature ones bear off white tabular flowers in their native environment.
Watering	It responds well to minimal watering. Monitoring the soil dryness between watering spans is essential for prosperous growth.
Soil Type	A well-draining cactus potting mix, or fast-draining sandy and loamy soils, is ideal.
Temperature	Thrives in warmer climates, with an ideal temperature range of 18°C – 24°C. It is sensitive to colder climates and should be avoided exposing to temperatures below 10°C.
Propagation	Propagates easily through rhizome (underground stems) divisions and cuttings.

This perennial succulent showcases evergreen foliage with light yellow and creamy white margins that beautifully contrast with the dark green leaves. 

Unlike the other tall varieties, Golden Hahnii is a low, dense leafy sentinel that grows in a petal-like formation and resembles a bird’s nest. This dwarf variety can magnify the aesthetics and textures of any place they are put into, without taking up too much space and attention.

Category	Details
Scientific Name	Dracaena trifasciata ‘ Golden Hahnii’
Common Name	Golden Bird’s Nest Snake Plant,
Family	Asparagaceae
Origin	Originating from tropical and subtropical regions of West Africa, this cultivar has adapted to environments globally.
Mature Size	It can grow up to 6-8 inches tall and is similar in width.
Blooms	Once matured, it yields fragrant greenish-white flowers initially, and orange berries later in its lifespan. Blooming of fruits and flowers indoors is very rare.
Watering	Highly drought-tolerant due to its succulent nature, so ensure to water only when the soil dries out completely.
Soil Type	Well-drained sandy soils are best for healthy growth.
Temperature	The ideal temperature range lies between 15°C and 29°C. They can tolerate average household humidity, and avoid placing them for prolonged durations in temperatures below 10°C.
Propagation	These can easily propagate by separating the offsets (pups) from the base and ensuring each offset has a decent amount of root and fibre.

This rare variety of Sansevieria features dark green strap-like leaves with reddish wavy margins and pointed tips, arranged in a petal-like formation.

One of the standout features of this sentinel is that, unlike the other varieties, the leaves tend to droop towards the ground instead of growing upwards. When exposed to bright light, the foliage turns coppery red and pinkish, making it a wow element in any home decor. 

Category	Details
Scientific Name	Dracaena pethera
Common Name	Star Sansevieria, Kirkii Snake Plant
Family	Asparagaceae
Origin	East Africa, especially Tanzania and surrounding regions.
Mature Size	It can grow up to 1.5 – 2.5 feet tall and wide.
Blooms	Blooms with greenish-white fragrant flowers that appear along stems, but very rarely.
Watering	Tolerates infrequent watering periods. Let the soil completely dry out before watering.
Soil Type	A well-drained sandy and gritty soil mix is ideal for growth.
Temperature	Ideal temperature ranges between 18 °C – 30 °C. Temperatures below 5°C can be fatal.
Propagation	Easily propagates through rhizome separations and leaf cuttings.

This is one of the rare Snake Plant varieties that can thrive both indoors and outdoors. With its delicate, fragrant flowers resembling hyacinth, it is a blooming success often compared to a flower bulb. Its leaves are usually bright green, contrasting perfectly with pale green bands. 

Defined by a low-growing form, sweet fragrance, and unique foliage, it is mostly desirable for gracing tabletops, shelves, and succulent arrangements.

Category	Details
Scientific Name	Dracaena parva
Common Name	Kenya Hyacinth, Sansevieria parva
Family	Asparagaceae
Origin	Originates from East Africa, especially Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda.
Mature Size	A compact variety that can grow up to 1.5 -2 feet tall.
Blooms	It is known for its fragrant pale pink and white flowers, resembling Hyacinth.
Watering	Responds well to infrequent watering. Ensure to moisten only when the soil dries out completely.
Soil Type	A well-draining loamy and sandy soil mix is perfect for lush growth.
Temperature	They grow best in temperatures between 21°C and 32°C. Freezing temperatures below 10°C can cause them to suffer and die back.
Propagation	It can easily be propagated from offsets and rhizome separation.

Portrayed by its upright sword-like leaves and dense formations, these spiky marvels are a rare variety to find. It features tabular green foliage, greyish green horizontal bands, and brownish pointed tips. 

The compact size makes it ideal for terrarium plant collections, tabletops, centrepieces, and other tight spaces in your homes. It also aids in purifying the air pollutants and enhances the decor without asking much in return. 

Category	Details
Scientific Name	Dracaena francisii
Common Name	Francisii Snake Plant, Sansevieria francisii
Family	Asparagaceae
Origin	It originated from East Africa, especially Kenya.
Mature Size	Grows up to 1-2 feet tall and wide.
Blooms	It rarely blooms with greenish white flowers in a tabular formation.
Watering	Ensure watering  abruptly only when the soil seems completely dry. Overwatering can damage the leaves.
Soil Type	A well-draining succulent or cactus mix potting soil is apt.
Temperature	Adapts well to average household humidity and can thrive in temperatures 18°C – 30°C. Prolonged exposure to freezing climates can damage them.
Propagation	It can be propagated through leaf cuttings and rhizome divisions.

This perennial succulent is one of the rare varieties that is characterized by a thick, plumpy appearance, with greenish blue leaves, and reddish brown margins and tips. 

One of the noticeable features is that leaves are arranged in two rows on opposite sides of the stem. Its unusual growth habits make it a botanical curiosity for flora and fauna lovers.

Category	Details
Scientific Name	Dracaena pinguicula
Common Name	Walking Sansevieria, Pinguicula, Snake Plant
Family	Asparagaceae
Origin	Semi-arid regions in Kenya
Mature Size	It can grow up to 1 foot tall, 0.3 metres wide.
Blooms	Rarely flowers under cultivation. It is found that it seldom bears brownish blooms in a tabular arrangement.
Watering	Ensure to water sparingly and allow the soil to dry out completely.
Soil Type	A well-draining soil with a sandy mix.
Temperature	It can thrive best in temperatures between 16°C and 27°C. Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures below 10°C can cause them to suffer.
Propagation	Easily propagates through rhizome divisions and stolons, the roots that creep above the ground.

Some of the other noticeable varieties are Black Jack, Concinna, Black Robusta, Golden Flame, Futura Superba, Black Limon, and the list continues.

From tall, compact,  to rare, bold architectural varieties, each Snake Plant has its glory and charm. Different from each other in appearance and features, they all share outstanding qualities like resilience, low maintenance, and air-purifying ability. Have you picked your favourite yet?

Botanical Background of Snake Plants

This architectural succulent features sword-shaped uptight leaves and web-like underground roots with distinctive appeal. It tends to produce white and pale green flowers occasionally in small clusters, which might change into tiny orange colored fruits.

To further appreciate this timeless beauty, let’s delve into its botanical history and profile.

Taxonomic Overview of the Snake Plant
Kingdom	Plantae
Clade	Tracheophytes
Clade	Angiosperms
Clade	Monocots
Order	Asparagales
Family	Asparagaceae
Genus	Dracaena
Species	D.trifasciata
Plant Type	Evergreen Perennial, usually grown indoors
Common Names	Mother-in-Law Plant, Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, Saint George’s Sword, Viper’s Bowstring Hemp, Sansevieria trifasciata

Similar to other plants like Dracaena and Foxtail Fern, which belong to the same family, Asparagaceae, these sentinels share similar traits and are low-maintenance, hardy specimens with strap-like upright leaves that can immediately transform your home garden and enhance the aesthetics of the place. 

Significance & Symbolism of Snake Plants – The Striped Beauty

Distinguished yellow striped leaves and tiny pale green flowers of Mother-In-Law’s Tongue, backed by its undemanding nature, purifying abilities, and aesthetic appeal, make it one of the most loved green companions worldwide.

Beyond the amazing health benefits of keeping this living plant in your home, it uplifts the ambience of any space through its majestic presence. Moreover, it also holds a special symbolic meaning and cultural significance worldwide.

Let us uncover the hidden symbolism behind these botanical marvels. 

• Restore Positive Energy: The upright sword-like leaves of these ornamental evergreens are found to eliminate negative energy and the presence of evil spirits, restoring positivity.

• Good Fortune and Prosperity: Keeping some types of Snake Plant, like Sansevieria Laurentii, at home and office brings a bundle of good luck and prosperity.

• Resilience and Endurance: Whether common or a rare Snake Plant variety, the hardy and drought-tolerant nature of it symbolises perseverance, resilience, and endurance as it survives in extreme conditions, strong and upright.

As per the Feng Shui principles, these are found to bring in maximum positivity when placed either in the entrance or at any east and south-eastern corners of your home. They infuse natural elegance and promote a subtle calmness amidst an uncluttered lifestyle. 

Do You Know?

• The Snake Plant Feng Shui symbolism is associated with protection, positivity, and purity. This is the reason why they are one of the most adorable and preferred houseplants.
• Similar to indoor vine plants like Jade and Christmas Cactus, and other varieties of Cactus, these also keep their stomata closed during the day to reduce the loss of water.

What are the Benefits of Keeping Different Snake Plants in Your Home?

Do you know that these tough-leaf beauties are one of the few plants that release oxygen even at night? Similar to its few green friends like Spider plants, Aloe vera, Peace Lilies, and orchids, these also open their pores at night to release fresh oxygen due to a process called CAM photosynthesis.

Let us explore the mind-boggling benefits of keeping these green companions in your home below in our blog.

• Air Purification: They are found to eliminate toxic pollutants like formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene and spread a wave of fresh air in your home. 

• Low-Maintenance and Drought-Tolerant: All the varieties of this genus are easy to maintain and prefer infrequent watering. Their ease of care motivates novice gardeners to bring them home, and garden enthusiasts to balance their busy lives with houseplant care.

• Easy Adaptability: These are highly adaptable to various light and soil conditions. Whether placed indoors or outdoors, they can grace any corner and space they are placed in.

• Improves Humidity Naturally: The gentle release of moisture during transpiration helps them act as natural humidifiers. This aids in climates with dry spells.

• Reduces Stress: It is found that the green appeal of these leafy sentinels is associated with reduced stress levels and improved mental wellness. 

With their diverse benefits and aesthetic appeal, they add a touch of elegance and display of year-long interest to any space. You can easily place them in patios, balconies, and elevate your outdoor living areas.

How to Care For Snake Plants? Explore the Essential Guide For a Healthy Plant

Viper’s Bowstring Hemp is widely appreciated not just for its looks, but also for the ease of care and longevity. These attributes have made it a popular choice amongst gardeners and plant lovers.

Ahead, take a look at the ultimate guidelines on how to grow and care for your green companion.

Growing and Caring Guidelines for Dracaena trifasciata
Light	Prospers in a spot with bright indirect sunlight of about 8-10 hours a day. These can tolerate a few hours of direct light as well. Responds well to low-light conditions in your home.
Watering	Known to be highly drought-tolerant, they do not need frequent watering. Ensure to water them only when the soil has completely dried out. During winters, monitor the soil every 2-3 weeks, and watering once a month is sufficient.
Soil	Thrives in a well-draining potting soil mix. A succulent or cactus mix soil, or a sandy and loamy mix, is also ideal. Avoid soil mixes with too much peat, as they retain water for longer times, which may not be favorable.
Temperature	Ideally, perform well in warmer climates, with temperatures between 70°F and 90°F. They are not cold-hardy, so prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50°F can damage the florets. Responds well to average household humidity ranging between 30-50 percent.
Fertilizer	A balanced slow-release 10-10-10 fertiliser, diluted to half, is ideal for good health. Ensure to feed them once in spring and once during mid-summer.
Pruning	Prune them during the growing season for new growth. Removal of dead and yellow leaves from the base soil helps to maintain the health.
Propagation	The ideal time to propagate is during spring and summer, when the plant is at least four inches tall. You can multiply the new members through either leaf cuttings or rhizome divisions.

Like all, these Mother-In-Law’s Tongue also have their share of drawbacks. These are rarely susceptible to pests and diseases, but sometimes, the plants may be damaged due to infestations from spider mites and mealybugs. 

You can get rid of fungus and gnats easily by wiping the leaves with insecticidal soaps and neem oil. 

Do You Know?

If you are a pet parent, keep your dogs and cats away from these leafy sentinels. As per ASPCA, they contain saponins, which cause gastrointestinal disorders if ingested.

Wrapping Up the Snake Plant’s Journey – From Dessert To Decor

All the Snake Plants varieties are truly a green gem for your living space. Radiating resilience and alluring appeal, their striking presence can accent not only your home decor but also benefit you in amazing ways by promoting a healthier indoor atmosphere.

They are like a mother’s unconditional love, that exists as a loyal green companion without many demands. Whether a hobby gardener or a seasoned green lover, it is an absolute eye candy houseplant that elevates your home with minimal effort.

Take this article on a journey to grow and celebrate these timeless beauties in your homes and surroundings.