WashingtonGardener: Snake Plant Profile

Wednesday, November 19, 2025

Snake Plant Profile

Snake Plant (Dracaena trifasciata formerly Sansevieria) is also known as mother-in-law's tongue, Saint George's sword, and viper's bowstring hemp. It has sword-like foliage that is quite striking.

There are several cultivars available with a variety of striping patterns and growth habits.

It is a popular houseplant because it is undemanding and low-maintenance. It tolerates low-light levels and infrequent watering. It is best to plant them in a well-draining cactus potting mix in a clay or terra cotta pot.

During the winter, water it only every couple of months. It will rot if it is overwatered. Do not water them in the center rosette.

In the spring, mature Snake Plants can develop green-white flowers that later turn into orange berries.

It is native to western Africa, southern Asia, and Madagascar. They are hardy to USDA Zones 10 to 12.

Snake Plant is propagated easily from cuttings and root divisions. When taking a cutting, let it dry for a few days to form a callus, and then place it directly into well-draining potting mix to form roots. Rooting hormone is generally not needed.

Keep the plant dusted. Fertilize it with a weak liquid solution every few weeks. If a leaf is damaged, cut it off at the base.

Snake Plant: You Can Grow That!

The video was produced by Washington Gardener Magazine.

Audio, Photos, and Text by Kathy Jentz

Video and Editing by Ellen Isaacson

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