Dracaena trifasciata

Bold, clean, and nearly indestructible—this dense Snake Plant is the ultimate set-and-forget indoor statement. Perfect for reception areas, meeting rooms, and modern homes, it stays upright and attractive with minimal watering and flexible light needs. If you want a premium-looking plant that performs in real life, this is the one.

1. Basic Identification

Common Name: Snake Plant
Botanical Name: Dracaena trifasciata
Former Name: Sansevieria trifasciata
Plant Type: Foliage houseplant
Plant Code / SKU: PLT-0012
Alternative Names:
Mother-in-law's Tongue
Saint George's Sword
Viper's Bowstring Hemp
جلد النمر

2. Taxonomy & Classification

Order: Asparagales
Family: Asparagaceae
Genus: Dracaena
Species: D. trifasciata

3. Origin & Distribution

Native to tropical West Africa (from Nigeria to the Congo). Widely cultivated and naturalized worldwide in tropical and subtropical regions as an ornamental houseplant.

4. Visual Characteristics

Evergreen perennial with stiff, erect, sword-shaped leaves forming a basal rosette. Leaves are dark green with horizontal light green bands; margins sometimes edged in yellow. Rarely blooms indoors, producing a terminal raceme of small, white, tubular, fragrant flowers.

5. Size & Dimensions

Height: 60–120 cm (2–4 ft)
Spread: 30–60 cm (1–2 ft)

6. Light Requirements

Prefers bright, indirect light but tolerates low-light conditions. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct, harsh sunlight to prevent leaf scorch.

7. Watering Needs

Drought-tolerant; water thoroughly then allow the top 2–3 cm of soil to dry out before watering again. Reduce frequency in autumn and winter to prevent root rot.

8. Soil & Potting

Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent blend, amended with perlite or coarse sand. Ensure the container has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

9. Temperature & Humidity

Optimal temperature range: 18–27 °C (65–80 °F). Tolerates down to 10 °C (50 °F) but avoid frost. Average indoor humidity is sufficient; low humidity is tolerated.

10. Fertilization

Feed with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer at half strength every 4–6 weeks during the spring and summer growing seasons. Do not fertilize in fall and winter.

11. Maintenance & Care Level

Very low-maintenance; ideal for beginners. Occasional dusting or wiping of leaves helps maintain optimal light absorption and appearance.

12. Growth & Propagation

Slow-growing. Propagate by division of rhizomes: separate sections with healthy shoots and pot individually. Alternatively, root leaf cuttings in moist potting mix until new plantlets form.

13. Common Problems

Overwatering can cause root and crown rot; symptoms include yellowing or mushy leaves. Leaf tip browning may result from fluoride in water or low humidity. Pests include mealybugs, spider mites, and thrips—treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

14. Benefits & Uses

Renowned for indoor air purification, effectively removing formaldehyde, benzene, and other VOCs. Its architectural form makes it a popular decorative plant for offices, reception areas, and modern interiors.

15. Toxicity & Safety

Contains saponins; toxic if ingested by pets or humans, causing nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Keep out of reach of children and animals.