Snake plant (Dracaena zeylanica)
Care, watering, light and tips for Snake plant on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Asparagaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 10 days
- Light: Indirect light
- Temperature: 10–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Snake plant
Dracaena zeylanica, commonly known as Snake Plant or Mother-in-Law's Tongue, is a perennial succulent highly prized for its long, stiff, upright leaves that display unique dark green patterns with yellow margins. Its elegant stature and resilience make it ideal for decorating modern interiors, offices, or low-light spaces, adding a sculptural and air-purifying touch. It can serve as an impressive focal point or complement arrangements with other foliage plants.
Native range
Western Tropical Africa
Care tips
This Dracaena thrives in bright, indirect light but tolerates low-light conditions well, though its growth will be slower. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot; it's better to underwater than overwater. Use a well-draining substrate, preferably a cactus and succulent mix. A common mistake is overwatering, which is the primary cause of its decline.
How to save a dying Snake plant
- Warning signs
- Soft, yellowing or browning leaves from the base. Rotting smell from soil. Dark spots on leaves.
- First aid
- Remove from pot. Cut off rotten roots with disinfected scissors. Repot in dry, well-draining soil. Do not water for 1-2 weeks.
- What kills it
- Overwatering! Sansevieria is a succulent, stores water. Waterlogged soil quickly rots its roots.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act fast. If the rhizome is firm and some roots are healthy, it has a good chance of recovery.