Origin Story:
The snake plant is one of the more recognizable houseplants, for good reason too, its spiky long fronds are pretty unmistakable and truly live up to its namesake. The sansevieria, however, comes in many shapes and forms in its over 70 species and can be found in arid deserts to humid tropical zones. According to Feng Shui principles the best place to put your Snake plant is near the entrance to your home to protect it from any bad energy and purify the air. Alternatively, the bedroom is another great spot for your Snake plant as it's one of the few plants that convert CO2 to oxygen at night, improving air quality means a better night's sleep!
Is a Snake plant easy to care for?
The ease of care makes Snake plants a popular choice among plant collectors. Their thick and waxy foliage holds water, allowing the forgetful gardener a few extra days in between waterings. It can survive and adapt to most lighting conditions making it a very chill house guest. We recommend Snake plants for aspiring green thumbs or a perfect plant gift where lighting and plant placement is unknown to the buyer!
What type of sunlight does a Snake plant require?
Snake plants can live in a shady corner of a living room or in moderate to bright space a couple meter's from a South facing window. They can even withstand direct sun if acclimatized accordingly, making them a truly versatile houseplant. Liven up that dim corner with a snake plant, it will adjust to its lower light levels, though growth may be slower/more minimal. Watering intervals may vary according to how much sun your Snake plant receives.
How much watering is expected for a Snake plant?
The snake plant requires infrequent watering, water only when the soil has completely dried out. Being tactile with your plant is one of the best ways to check if your plant is thirsty. Pick up your plant, does it feel light? Touch the soil, is it crumbly and dry or is it moist to the touch? Watering times vary depending on your home environment and how much sun/light your plant is receiving. In winter months, watering can be as infrequent as once per month. Be sure to either keep your plant in its growers pot, or repot in a decorative pot with drainage, this ensures your plants roots are not sitting in water. Over-watering is a common plant-killer.
Does a snake plant need humidity?
Snake plants do not require much humidity as they are used to arid, dry environments and periods of drought. Though the humidity in your home will affect how quickly your plant's soil will dry out.
Can I put my Snake plant outside?
Because your snake plant is so adaptive to so many different lighting conditions your plant would love to live outside during Summer months. In Canada, Snake plants can even go outside in the summer months, once temperatures reach above 15 degrees. Ideally your plant will receive both bright and indirect light throughout the day while outdoors, be careful not to have it in direct bright light all day, or it can dry your plant pal out.
Are snake plants pet friendly?
Snake plants are not pet-safe. Snake plants contain a toxin called Saponin to protect themselves against insects and other harmful pests. If only a small amount has been ingested, fear not, your furry friend should be ok. But if vomiting or diarrhea occur, check with a veterinarian.