I’ve always loved having houseplants around, and one of my favorites is the snake plant. Known scientifically as Dracaena trifasciata, this easy-to-care-for plant is perfect for almost any room in my house.
The best place to put a snake plant is where it gets indirect sunlight, like near a window with light curtains.
I often move my snake plant around to brighten up a corner and take advantage of changing light throughout the day. It thrives in rooms with medium to bright light but can also tolerate low-light areas. This flexibility makes it perfect for spaces like living rooms or bedrooms.
Another great thing about my snake plant is how it helps purify the air. I like to keep it in my bedroom so I can breathe fresher air while I sleep. It’s great for adding a touch of green to my indoor spaces without much fuss!
This plant is also a great present for someone.
If this sounds interesting to you, continue reading!
Table of Contents
Top 4 Snake Plant Varieties
As I mentioned, I love snake plants because they’re very easy to care for and come in many interesting forms. They’re great for beginners and can add a touch of nature indoors. Let’s explore some popular species and how they grow.
1. Species and Varieties
Snake plants belong to the Sansevieria genus.
The most well-known type is Sansevieria trifasciata, also called mother-in-law’s tongue. This plant has long, upright leaves with green and yellow stripes.
There’s also Twisted Sister, which is shorter and has wavy leaves that twist. It adds a fun look to any room.
Sansevieria cylindrica is another type known for its round, spear-like leaves. It can be braided for a unique style.
Another type, called Sansevieria zeylanica, serves both as a decorative plant and a source of strong fibers. Each variety offers a different appearance, making it easy to find one that suits your home.
10 Essential Tips for Light, Water, and Perfect Conditions
- Light
These plants are quite sturdy. They prefer indirect bright sunlight (near a window), which means you can place them in rooms to maintain their deep green color. Also, you can grow your plants with less natural light because they are tropical plants that thrive well in low light. While they might not grow as fast in low light, they still do well.
I put one of mine on the glazed balcony where it gets enough light but isn’t in direct sunlight.
*Direct sunlight can cause the leaves to scorch or become brown at the tips.
- Watering
They don’t need a lot of water. Let the soil dry out between waterings. This makes them low-maintenance, which is perfect for busy people. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it’s better to water them sparingly. I water mine usually every 1 to 2 weeks. When I water, I pour until water runs out of the pot’s drainage holes, or I just dip the plant in a bowl of water and let it soak up as much as it needs. Then, I make sure to empty the saucer under the pot so the roots aren’t sitting in water.
- Humidity
These plants are very adaptable and can thrive in dry air (40-50% humidity). They don’t need high humidity, making them great for indoor spaces with normal or low humidity. While they’re resilient, extremely high humidity can invite pests and diseases.
I make sure there’s good airflow around my plant. Proper spacing and not overcrowding them with other plants help maintain the right balance. If needed, I open windows when the weather is nice to let in fresh air.
- Temperature
Snake plants like warm places. I find they grow best in temperatures between 60°F to 85°F. I keep them away from cold windows because they don’t do well below 50°F. During winter, I make sure they’re not close to heaters or vents, as these can dry them out and cause stress.
- Dusting
Snake plants can collect dust on their long, flat leaves. Gently wipe the leaves with a damp cloth (not wet) every couple of weeks to keep them clean and help them breathe better.
- Repotting
They grow slowly and don’t need frequent repotting. But every 1-2 years, it’s a good idea to repot them into a slightly larger pot. I report my sansevieria when I see it needs more room and the pot is full of roots. They’re also good at cleaning the air by removing toxins. This makes them a nice addition to spaces where you spend a lot of time.
- Potting
Choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent water from collecting at the bottom. Clay or terracotta pots are great because they allow moisture to evaporate and help the soil dry out faster. If you prefer a lighter option, plastic pots work well, too, but make sure they still have drainage holes.
- Fertilizing
Your snake plant doesn’t need to be fertilized often. During the growing season (spring and summer), feed your snake plant once or twice a season with a balanced liquid fertilizer to encourage healthy growth. Avoid fertilizing in the fall and winter when the plant is resting.
- Soil
For soil, I choose a well-draining mix. This helps prevent root rot by letting excess water escape. I like to use a mix of succulents or cactus. During repotting, I gently check the roots and remove any that are damaged or rotting.
- Pests and Problems
Snake plants are usually pest-resistant, but I still keep an eye out for mealybugs and little flying midges. If I see any, I gently wipe the leaves with a damp cloth or use cinnamon (it is antibacterial). Another issue can be leaf spots. This happens if water sits on the leaves for too long.
Where Should I Place a Snake Plant in My House? – Top 5 Spots
When you think about where to place a snake plant, pay close attention to its light requirements.
I find snake plants to be incredibly versatile, thriving in various parts of the house. Key spots include the living room for aesthetic appeal and bedrooms, where they can boost air quality.
They also fit well in home offices for a productivity boost, while entryways and hallways benefit from their low-maintenance nature.
I suggest placing the plant in a spot where it will not be directly hit by the sun’s rays. This spot could be behind a curtain or near a window with a sheer shade.
*Direct sunlight is too harsh for snake plants.
1. Living Room
In my living room, a snake plant stands out beautifully. It adds a touch of green, which lights up the space. Placing it near a window is smart because it gets indirect sunlight, which is perfect for a snake plant.
The plant’s vertical shape complements modern decor. It can be placed on the floor beside a couch or on a tabletop. This not only enhances visual appeal but also helps purify the air, making the living room fresher. I like how the plant’s toughness makes it easy to care for, even if I forget to water it occasionally.
2. Bedroom
I believe a snake plant belongs in my bedroom. At night, it releases oxygen, promoting better sleep, which I find essential for rest. I typically place it near my bed but avoid putting it in direct sunlight.
Snake plants do well in low-light conditions, often found in bedrooms. I enjoy its subtle yet unique appearance. It’s also perfect for small spaces since it doesn’t spread out too much. Maintaining it is a breeze, and it brings a piece.
3. Home Office
In a home office, a snake plant creates a calming environment. It’s known to enhance air quality and offer a sense of peace, essential elements for productivity. You can position it on the desk or a shelf where it gets enough light but avoids harsh, direct rays.
Its presence helps reduce stress, making long hours at the desk a little more pleasant. Plus, during breaks, you can glance at it and feel a bit more connected to nature.
4. Entryways and Hallways
I find entryways and hallways are excellent spots for snake plants. They need little attention, making them great choices for these often-overlooked areas.
Slim and tall, the plant doesn’t crowd the space. Place it in decorative pots to welcome guests warmly with a green flair when they enter. These areas can sometimes feel boring, but the plant livens them up.
5. Kitchen and Bathroom
These areas can be tricky for plants due to humidity and fluctuating temperatures.
Bonus: Read the “History of Snake Plant” in our full article
7 Reasons Your Home Needs a Snake Plant
They not only add a touch of green but also help clean the air. They can remove toxins and improve air quality, making it easier to breathe.
1. NASA-Approved Air Purifiers
Snake plants are toxin-busters! They filter airborne villains like formaldehyde (common in adhesives and furniture) and benzene (found in detergents), giving your indoor air a mini detox.
2. Oxygen Boosters at Night
Unlike most plants, they release oxygen after dark while absorbing carbon dioxide. Pop one in your bedroom for a subtle sleep aid—no lavender spray is required.
3. Natural Pest Repellent
Their leaves contain saponins—bitter compounds that bugs hate. Perfect for keeping mealybugs or spider mites at bay without harsh chemicals.
4. Mental Health Allies
Studies suggest their air-purifying power may reduce headaches, ease eye strain, and sharpen focus. Bonus: Greenery = instant mood lifter!
5. Survivor Plants for Forgetful Owners
Drought-tolerant and low-light friendly, they thrive on neglect. Forget watering for weeks? They’ll still wave their sword-like leaves like it’s NBD.
6. Feng Shui Energy Boosters
Believed to attract prosperity, cleanse bad vibes, and guard against negativity. Place one near the entrance as a “spiritual bouncer” for your home.
7. Natural Healers (Traditional Hack!)
African herbal medicine has used its anti-inflammatory properties for centuries to treat wounds and boost immunity. Modern science is catching up!
Bonus: Their sculptural vibe fits any decor—boho, modern, or that “I tried but also gave up” aesthetic.
Using Feng Shui with Snake Plants
If you are a fan of Chinese culture, consider Feng Shui to enhance positive energy and prosperity. Focus on positioning the plant where it can best harness the wood element’s symbolism for growth and strength.
1. Positioning for Positive Energy
In Feng Shui, the snake plant is considered a powerful tool for balancing and enhancing the energy of a home, luck, and money. The snake plant transforms negative energy into protective vibes.
Placing a snake plant near the front door is particularly encouraging. The main entrance is considered the “mouth of Chi,” where energy enters the home. A snake plant here helps cleanse and purify incoming energy, protecting the household and inviting positivity, wealth, and good fortune.
Snake plants are great for corners of rooms, which can often accumulate stagnant energy (Sha Chi). Their tall, upward growth redirects energy flow and revitalizes the space.
A snake plant enhances positive energy, so keep its leaves clean and free of dust and ensure it gets enough light and water. In Feng Shui, the health of your plants is directly tied to the energy they bring into your space. Dead or sickly plants emit stagnant or negative energy, which can disrupt the flow of Chi (life force energy) in your home.
Avoid placing too many snake plants together or overwhelming a space, as this might disrupt the intended flow of energy. When placing a snake plant, set an intention for what you wish to attract – whether it’s protection, wealth, or harmony.
2. Where to Avoid Positioning
While snake plants are excellent air purifiers and emit oxygen, their strong, protective energy is not typically recommended for bathrooms.
Bathrooms are typically considered spaces where negative or draining energy accumulates. The excess moisture and energy of a bathroom can make it difficult for the plant to thrive.
The kitchen is associated with fire energy, and placing a plant like the snake plant, which is associated with the wood element, can create an imbalance between the fire and wood elements.
In Feng Shui, this imbalance could potentially lead to excess energy or disharmony, especially if the plant is placed too close to the stove or oven.
3. The Symbolism of the Wood Element
In Feng Shui, live plants symbolize the wood element, which is associated with attributes such as growth, vitality, and prosperity. The snake plant, despite its somewhat unique appearance with its tall and strong leaves, represents stability and resilience.
Its connection to the wood element helps to create a sense of fostering a positive connection with the surrounding environment.
I align the plant with other wood elements, like wooden furniture, to emphasize harmony and balance.
The snake plant’s sharp, sword-like leaves bring in protective energy, often associated with the metal element. This makes it a unique plant in Feng Shui, as it combines both wood (growth) and metal (protection).
Using Vastu with Snake Plants
- East
This area is connected to family and health in Feng Shui. Placing a snake plant here can promote stability, growth, and well-being for all household members.
- Southeast
Associated with wealth and abundance, this is a perfect spot for the snake plant to enhance prosperity and financial success.
- South and Southwest
This area is associated with stability and protection. Snake plants in these areas can help protect the home from negative energies and external influences.
Propagation: Expanding Your Plant Collection
I love expanding my plant collection with snake plants. It’s easy to do this through cuttings and division. Both methods are simple and rewarding.
1. Cuttings
I find propagating snake plants with cuttings straightforward. First, I choose a healthy leaf from a mother plant. I use a clean knife to cut it close to the soil. Then, I let the cut dry for a few days until the cut end seals.
Once dry, I plant the cutting in a pot with well-draining soil. Patience is key here! I water it lightly and wait for a few weeks until roots form. It’s amazing watching new growth come from my efforts.
2. Division
If my snake plant is crowded, I split it to create new plants. I remove the plant from its pot and gently shake off excess soil. Then, I locate sections with rhizomes and roots.
I use a sharp knife to separate these sections carefully. Each part should have some leaves and roots. After dividing them, I replant them in individual pots with fresh soil. This method gives me new snake plants instantly to enjoy and share.
Read my full article about “How to Propagate a Snake Plant” for the complete step-by-step guide!
Thank you again for reading my whole article. I hope you find it helpful.
See you next time and, as always, Happy gardening!
FAQs
I’ve learned a few things about placing snake plants in the home. The right spot can bring positive energy and improve the air around me.
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