Reasons to love Snake Plants
If there's one houseplant that proves you don't need a green thumb to create a lush, vibrant space, it's the Snake Plant. These architectural beauties have been gracing homes across for generations—and for good reason. Our shops in East Belfast are never without them.
Whether you're a seasoned plant parent or someone who's killed every cactus they've ever owned, Snake Plants are about to become your new best friends.
A plant with exotic roots and adaptable nature
Originally hailing from the dry, rocky regions of West Africa and southern Asia, Snake Plants (Sansevieria) have evolved to thrive in challenging conditions. This hardy heritage makes them remarkably adaptable to our homes and offices. While they're famously tolerant of low light—making them perfect for those shadier corners—the RHS notes that these resilient beauties actually appreciate brighter conditions. Give your Snake Plant a spot in full sun to light shade, and you'll be rewarded with faster, more vigorous growth. They're flexible enough to survive in dim conditions, but truly flourish when they get a bit more brightness. It's the best of both worlds: a plant that tolerates neglect but rewards you handsomely when you give it prime positioning.
Nearly impossible to kill
Between work, family, and everything in between, remembering to water plants can slip down the priority list. Snake Plants thrive on neglect. They can go weeks without water, tolerate low light conditions, and bounce back from almost any care mishap. Forget to water for a fortnight? Your Snake Plant won't hold it against you. This resilience makes them perfect for offices, busy households, and anyone who travels frequently.
They actually clean your air
Snake Plants aren't just sitting there looking pretty—they're working hard to improve your indoor air quality. Unlike most plants that only produce oxygen during the day, Snake Plants release oxygen at night, making them ideal bedroom companions. It's like having a natural air purifier that never needs its filters changed.
Architectural beauty that suits any space
From minimalist Scandinavian interiors to maximalist jungle vibes, Snake Plants complement virtually any design aesthetic. Their bold, upright leaves create striking vertical interest, making them perfect for empty corners, narrow spaces, or as statement pieces in entryways. Whether you need a compact plant for a desk or a tall specimen to anchor a living room, there's a Snake Plant variety that fits perfectly.
We love added them to our office plant schemes as when grouped together they can make a really striking feature.
They can surprise you with flowers
Here's a delightful secret many Snake Plant owners never discover: these architectural plants can actually bloom! While it's relatively rare indoors (usually triggered by a bit of stress or just the right conditions), Snake Plants produce elegant, fragrant flower spikes with small, tubular white or cream-coloured blooms. The sweet, almost vanilla-like scent is often strongest in the evening. It's like your plant is giving you a special thank you for your care—or lack thereof! Seeing your Snake Plant flower is a true treat and a sign that your low-maintenance friend is absolutely thriving.
Check out Frances Tophill's Snake Plant flower she posted on Instagram.
Pet-friendly alternatives exist (but choose wisely)
While traditional Snake Plants can cause mild stomach upset in curious cats and dogs if nibbled, their tough, upright leaves are less tempting than many other houseplants.
Incredibly low maintenance requirements
Snake Plants prefer being underwatered to overwatered. A drink every 2-4 weeks during growing season (and even less in winter) keeps them happy. Just remember to check the soil.
They don't demand humidity, tolerate temperature fluctuations, and rarely need repotting. Even fertilizing is optional, though a light feed during spring and summer encourages robust growth. This hands-off approach makes them ideal for plant leasing in offices and event spaces where daily maintenance isn't practical.
Endless variety to collect and display
Once you fall for one Snake Plant, you'll quickly discover there's an entire family to explore. Each variety brings its own personality and visual appeal to your collection.
Sansevieria trifasciata (Mother-in-Law's Tongue)
The classic. Featuring tall, sword-like leaves with distinctive horizontal grey-green banding, this is the variety most people picture when they think "Snake Plant." It can reach impressive heights of 3-4 feet, making it a stunning floor plant.
Sansevieria laurentii
Similar to trifasciata but with gorgeous golden-yellow edges running along each leaf. This variegated beauty adds a pop of warmth to any space and looks particularly striking when grouped with other green plants.
Sansevieria cylindrica (Cylindrical Snake Plant)
For something completely different, cylindrica features round, spear-like leaves that grow in a fan pattern. Often sold braided or arranged in creative displays, it's a conversation starter that works beautifully in modern, minimalist spaces.
Sansevieria moonshine
The sophisticated cousin of the family. Moonshine boasts pale, silvery-green leaves with a subtle sheen that catches the light beautifully. Its softer colouring makes it perfect for bedrooms and calming spaces.
Sansevieria hahnii (Bird's Nest Snake Plant)
Prefer something compact? Hahnii forms a tight rosette rarely exceeding 6 inches tall, making it ideal for desks, shelves, and small spaces. It packs all the benefits of its taller relatives into a perfectly petite package.
Perfect for Northern Irish homes and businesses
Our homes and offices across Northern Ireland don't always offer abundant natural light, especially during those long winter months. Snake Plants genuinely thrive in these conditions, making them perfectly suited to our climate and indoor environments.
Ready to welcome a Snake Plant (or three) into your life? Visit us at The Green East in East Belfast to see our full collection in person and get expert advice on choosing the perfect variety for your space. Can't make it to the shop? Browse our online store for delivery across Northern Ireland. And if you're looking to enhance your office, event, or home with professional plant displays, ask about our leasing and care services—we'll keep your Snake Plants (and all your greenery) looking their absolute best.
Your low-maintenance, air-purifying, endlessly stylish new plant companion awaits!
