Snake Plant
Dracaena trifasciata
Cultivar: ‘Laurentii’ (yellow‑edged variety)
Other Common Names: Mother‑in‑Law’s Tongue
Low to bright, indirect light
Very low; drought‑tolerant
Very easy
2–4 ft tall, 1–2 ft wide clumps
Details
🪴 Plant Type
Evergreen perennial succulent (sub-shrub)
🌍 Native Region
West Africa (Nigeria, Congo region)
📈 Growth Habit
Upright, stiff leaves arising in a basal rosette; forms dense clumps over time
📐 Size
Height: 2–4 ft (60–120 cm)
Spread: 1–2 ft (30–60 cm)
🌸 Bloom Time
Rarely blooms indoors; if it does, small white-green panicles appear in spring
Care Requirements
☀️ Light
Thrives in low to bright indirect light. Too much direct sun can scorch leaf margins; too little light slows growth
💧 Water
Water sparingly—allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Typically once every 4–6 weeks in winter, and every 2–4 weeks in summer. Overwatering → root rot; underwatering is far safer
🌍 Soil
Well‑draining potting mix (cactus/succulent mix or standard mix amended with perlite). Neutral pH (6.0–7.5)
🌡️ Temperature
Ideal: 65–85°F (18–29°C). Tolerates down to 50°F (10°C); avoid frost
🧪 Fertilizer
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer at half‑strength once in spring and once in summer. No feeding needed in fall/winter
Additional Information
🌱 Propagation Methods
Division: Separate rhizomes when repotting. Leaf cuttings: Root sections of leaf in soil or water (slower)
🐛 Common Problems
Soft, mushy bases: Overwatering/root rot. Brown leaf tips: Low humidity or occasional water stress. Pests: Rare, but watch for mealybugs and spider mites
🌿 Companion Plants
Pairs well with other low‑light tolerant plants like: ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia), Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum), Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
⚠️ Special Notes
Extremely air‑purifying (removes formaldehyde, benzene, xylene). Ideal for beginners and offices. Leaves contain mild toxins—keep away from pets and children