Sansevieria zeylanica

Snake Plant

(5 customer reviews)

The iconic Snake Plant. Sansevieria zeylanica is an elegant and almost unkillable choice for any well lit indoor space.

Sansevieria zeylanica forms dense groups of slender grey-green swords patterned with waves of dark green bands.

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Origin: S. India, Sri Lanka
Genus: Sansevieria
Species / Cultivar: zeylanica
Common Name: Snake Plant
Synonym: Dracaena zeylanica

Plant Biography

Native to South East Asia, this succulent has become an incredibly popular choice of houseplants for its sleek, modern appearance and easy to care for nature.

Unlike many succulents which have adapted to arid environments by staying short and wide, the foliage of Sansevieria grows remarkably upright. Each of these vertical shoots of foliage are said to resemble the figure of a snake, hence the common name ‘Snake Plant’.

The genus was named in honour either of two men with similar names, both from the same general part of Italy; one is Pietro Antonio Sanseverino, Count of Chiaromonte, and the other is Raimondo di Sangro, Prince of San Severo.

In 2017, genetic studies led to the reclassification of the species as Dracaena. However, many commercial growers continue to use the original name, which can sometimes cause confusion for customers. With over 200 years of history as the cherished Sansevieria, it might take some time for everyone to adjust to the new name.

Sansevieria zeylanica
Light: Bright Indirect
This plant likes sun, but keep out of direct sunlight. Best placed in an area near a window.
Soil: Cacti and Succulent Mix
Enjoys a drier soil with a high ratio of drainage material.
Temperature: >7°C
Temperature range at which this plant is healthiest and grows best.
Growth Rate: Slow
Expect to see quite small amounts of growth over the years.
Final Size: Medium
Final size will be suitable for a table, plant stand, or large strong shelf.
Water Requirement: Minimal Watering
In summer water sparingly when soil has dried out significantly. Little to no water in winter.
Humidity: Low
Suited to fairly dry air, typically because it evolved in an arid climate.
Maintenance: Low
Requires no attention beyond correct position and watering. An ideal starter plant!

Expert Tip

Snake Plants thrive on neglect, just make sure not to overwater it! Otherwise, it can survive in most lighting conditions and can survive without watering for prolonged periods of time.
Care & Size Guidance

Care & Size Guidance

Snake Plants are a brilliant choice for both new and seasoned plant owners alike, providing impressive towering vertical forms whilst being one of the easiest plants to look after.

Though it tolerates shade, it is at its best in well lit environments. Nonetheless, it is a slow growing plant in any lighting conditions.

Water when the soil has dried out several centimetres, allowing it to dry out further in winter months, never left sitting in moisture.

the plant was very big i mean big very well packed first class service from the palm centre and roberts team well done

David M

the plant was very big i mean big very well packed first class service from the palm centre and roberts team well done

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5 customer reviews for Sansevieria zeylanica

Nice enough plants and a good size, but I assumed that they would come in different pots ( i.e. like the ones shown in the images, rather than plastic ones). I did read the pictures were “for illustrative purposes only”. A shame. The package came early and was very well packed which was good.

Palm Centre response: Thanks for the feedback and glad to hear your plant arrived safely.

Maire McCormack (verified owner)