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Plant Passport · Houseplant Propagation

Snake Plant

Dracaena trifasciata · formerly Sansevieria trifasciata

A slow-and-steady propagation of one of the toughest houseplants around. It tolerates ordinary household conditions well, but good drainage and patient watering are the real secrets to keeping it happy.

Compact variegated Snake Plant growing in a small white ceramic pot
Light

Indirect light; brighter is faster

Water

Let the mix dry well

Soil

Fast-draining potting mix

Habit

Slow, sturdy growth

Care

Tough does not mean light-free

Snake Plants tolerate lower light, but they grow more strongly in medium to bright indirect light. Protect a newly rooted start from harsh direct sun while it adjusts.

Watering

When in doubt, wait

Let most or all of the potting mix dry before watering thoroughly. Empty any collected water from the outer pot. A small propagation in low light may need surprisingly little water.

Propagation

Keep the right end up

Snake Plant leaves can be cut into short sections and rooted with the end that originally faced the plant’s base pointing downward. New shoots take time. Division is faster and preserves the leaf pattern of variegated varieties.

Problems

Protect the base from rot

Soft, yellow, or collapsing leaves usually point to excess water or poor drainage. Wrinkling can indicate prolonged dryness. Keep water out of a tight new rosette and avoid an oversized pot that stays wet too long.