Upright, sculptural sword-leaves that tolerate anything from a dim hallway to a bright window, and weeks without water. As tough as houseplants get.
At a glance
- Plant type: Indoor plant
- Mature size: 90 cm tall
- Aspect: shade and low-light positions, part shade or morning sun and full sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Snake Plant
Dracaena trifasciata is a slow-growing indoor plant in the Asparagaceae family. It reaches around 90 cm tall at maturity, with evergreen and variegated foliage.
Where to grow Snake Plant
Snake Plant suits tropical, subtropical and arid and semi-arid climates and grows best in shade and low-light positions, part shade or morning sun and full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Snake Plant provided drainage is reasonable. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Snake Plant handles dry conditions well once established. Feed as new growth begins, following the rate on a balanced garden fertiliser. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Snake Plant in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. For most gardens, maintenance is low maintenance.
Using Snake Plant in the garden
Snake Plant earns its place for pots and courtyard containers and a feature or specimen planting. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Snake Plant sits most comfortably beside plants adapted to very drought tolerant and tropical climate. A small cluster gives stronger visual impact than isolated plants scattered through the garden.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
