Is Sansevieria a Snake Plant? Yes, Here's Why

By David Wilson · July 15, 2025

Yes, Sansevieria is a snake plant. The terms ‘Sansevieria’ and ‘snake plant’ refer to the same group of popular houseplants known for their upright, sword-like leaves and resilience in low-light and low-water conditions. Formerly classified under the genus Sansevieria, these plants were reclassified into the Dracaena genus based on genetic studies, but they are still widely known and sold as Sansevieria or snake plants.

Understanding the Sansevieria and Snake Plant Identity

The name “Sansevieria” comes from Ruggiero Santini, an 18th-century Italian prince and patron of botany, while “snake plant” refers to the plant’s long, wavy foliage that resembles snakeskin in texture and pattern. Despite the scientific reclassification, both names remain in widespread use among gardeners, retailers, and horticulturists.

Common Reasons People Search for This Information

Confusion due to changing botanical classifications
Difficulty identifying care requirements under different names
Wanting to confirm if two plant names refer to the same species
Searching for reliable care guides using either term
Verifying plant identity for pet safety (snake plants are toxic to cats and dogs)

Botanical Reclassification: From Sansevieria to Dracaena

In 2018, phylogenetic research revealed that Sansevieria species are nested within the Dracaena genus. As a result, taxonomists merged the two genera. For example, Sansevieria trifasciata is now correctly called Dracaena trifasciata.

However, this change has been slow to catch on outside academic circles. Most nurseries, online retailers, and plant enthusiasts continue using “Sansevieria” or “snake plant” due to brand recognition and ease of communication.

Popular Varieties of Snake Plants (Sansevieria)

Snake plants come in many cultivars, each with unique leaf patterns, colors, and growth habits. Below is a list of the most common types:

Sansevieria trifasciata ‘Laurentii’ – Yellow-edged leaves, one of the most recognizable varieties
Sansevieria cylindrica – Round, spear-shaped leaves; often braided
Sansevieria moonshine – Silvery-green leaves with a metallic sheen
Sansevieria zeylanica – Thick, dark green banded leaves
Sansevieria hahnii (bird’s nest snake plant) – Compact rosette form, ideal for small spaces

Care Requirements for Snake Plants

Snake plants are among the easiest indoor plants to care for, making them ideal for beginners. They thrive in a wide range of conditions but prefer certain environments for optimal growth.

Variety	Light Needs (Lux)	Water Frequency (Weeks)	Max Height (cm)	Air Purification Rating (NASA)
Sansevieria trifasciata	100–500	3–6	120	High
Sansevieria cylindrica	150–600	4–6	150	High
Sansevieria moonshine	200–700	3–5	60	Moderate
Sansevieria zeylanica	100–500	4–6	100	High
Sansevieria hahnii	100–400	4–6	15	Moderate

Table data source:1, 2, 3

The data shows that all major Sansevieria varieties tolerate low light (100–700 lux), making them suitable for offices and shaded rooms. Watering every 3–6 weeks prevents root rot, a common issue with overwatering. According to NASA’s Clean Air Study, several varieties effectively remove indoor pollutants like formaldehyde and benzene.

Why the Name Confusion Persists

Despite the official reclassification, the name “Sansevieria” remains dominant in consumer markets. This is largely due to:

Brand consistency in gardening literature and product labels
Lack of public awareness about taxonomic updates
Search engine optimization: “snake plant” and “Sansevieria” have higher search volume than “Dracaena trifasciata”
Pet safety resources that use the older names

Frequently Asked Questions About Sansevieria and Snake Plants

Is Sansevieria the same as a snake plant?

Yes, Sansevieria and snake plant are two names for the same plant. Sansevieria is the former botanical name, while snake plant is the common name based on its appearance.

Are snake plants toxic to pets?

Yes, snake plants contain saponins, which are toxic to cats and dogs. Ingestion can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It’s best to keep them out of reach of pets.

Do snake plants need sunlight?

Snap plants thrive in indirect light but can survive in low-light conditions. Direct sunlight may scorch their leaves, while too little light slows growth.

How often should I water a snake plant?

Water every 3–6 weeks, depending on light and temperature. Always let the soil dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot.

Can snake plants improve indoor air quality?

Yes, according to NASA’s Clean Air Study, snake plants help filter indoor air by removing toxins like formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene, especially at night when they release oxygen.