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 an 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. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Snake Plant is very drought tolerant once established, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Snake Plant in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it 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
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Snake Plant with other plants that enjoy the same very drought tolerant and tropical climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.