Snake plant care in offices
Dracaena trifasciata
A snake plant needs bright light but tolerates some shade. Do not overwater it, and water it only every 1 to 2 months in winter. Too much water rots the roots.
Snake plant facts
- Botanical name
- Dracaena trifasciata (formerly Sansevieria trifasciata)[1]
- Family
- Asparagaceae (asparagus family)[1]
- Native range
- Southern Nigeria to west-central tropical Africa, and Tanzania[1]
- Light
- Bright light, with 2 to 6 hours of direct sun each day. It tolerates some shade. Protect it from hot afternoon sun.[3][2]
- Water
- Do not overwater. In winter, water only every 1 to 2 months.[3]
- Temperature
- Tolerates cool temperatures near 50°F and low humidity[3]
- Cats and dogs
- Toxic to cats and dogs. It contains saponins.[4]
- Common problems
- Few problems. Mealybugs and spider mites. Root rot from too much water.[3]
Light and location
A snake plant grows best with 2 to 6 hours of direct sun each day.[3] It tolerates some shade. Protect it from hot afternoon sun.[2]
It tolerates low humidity and cool temperatures near 50°F.[3]
Water
Do not overwater a snake plant, because the roots can rot. In winter, water it only every 1 to 2 months.[3]
Do not pour water into the center of the leaf rosette.[2]
Pests and pet safety
The snake plant has few problems. Look for mealybugs and spider mites.[3]
The ASPCA lists the snake plant as toxic to cats and dogs. Signs include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.[4]
How MotherBotanist cares for a snake plant
On each weekly visit, the technician does these tasks for each plant:
- Check the soil, and water only if the plant needs it
- Look for pests, disease, and signs of stress
- Remove dust from the leaves
- Cut off dead or damaged leaves
- Turn the plant so that all sides get light
The technician records the care and adds a photo to the plant profile in your client portal.
Snake plant questions
Short answers about this plant in an office.
Can a snake plant grow in low light?
It tolerates some shade, according to the Missouri Botanical Garden. But it grows best in bright light. NC State Extension recommends 2 to 6 hours of direct sun each day.
How often should you water a snake plant?
Water it sparingly. NC State Extension says that too much water rots the roots. In winter, water it only every 1 to 2 months.
Is a snake plant toxic to cats and dogs?
Yes. The ASPCA lists the snake plant as toxic to cats and dogs. It contains saponins. Signs include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Sources
- Dracaena trifasciata (Prain) Mabb.. Plants of the World Online, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
- Sansevieria trifasciata (Plant Finder). Missouri Botanical Garden.
- Dracaena trifasciata. North Carolina State University Extension, Gardener Plant Toolbox.
- Snake Plant. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center.
Need weekly care for the plants in your office? Plans start at $2,500 per month.