Over the years, my snake plants have been through a lot, and I’ve learned how to keep them happy—especially in colder weather.
If you’re worried about the cold harming your plants, don’t be. I’ll share everything you need to know.
So, how cold can snake plants tolerate?
Snake plants can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C), but below 40°F (4°C), they suffer damage like drooping or discoloration.
Keep reading, and I’ll show you how to protect your snake plant and keep it thriving—even in the cold!
Snake Plant Cold Tolerance at a Glance:
- Ideal Temperature: 60°F-85°F (15°C-29°C)
- Minimum Tolerance: 50°F (10°C)
- Damage Threshold: Below 40°F (4°C)
- Frost Risk: 32°F (0°C) or lower
- Quick Fix: Move indoors, trim mushy leaves.
Want to know why these limits exist? Let’s dive into what makes snake plants tick—or wilt—in the cold.
Why Snake Plants Struggle in Cold Weather?
Snake Plant Natural Habitat & Climate Adaptation
Snake plants originate from tropical West Africa, where it’s hot and dry most of the time. They’re built to store water in their thick leaves, surviving long stretches without rain.
Cold, however, is a different story—they’re simply not equipped for it.
They never had to deal with frost or snow in their natural home. That’s why chilly weather stresses them out.
What is the Ideal Temperature for Snake Plants?
The perfect temperature for snake plants is between 60°F and 85°F (15°C to 29°C). That’s where they thrive, growing strong and green. They can handle down to 50°F (10°C) without complaining too much.
But drop below 40°F (4°C), and you’ll see trouble—leaves get soft or yellow. Below 32°F (0°C), freezing kicks in, and that’s a disaster for their cells. Keep them warm to avoid the mess.
What Are Snake Plant Hardiness Zones?
Snake plants thrive in USDA zones 9-11, where winters stay above 20°F (-6°C).
In Zone 8, they might survive outdoors with protection, like a blanket or mulch. Zones 9 and 10 are safer bets—less risk of frost.
I’ve tried leaving one out in Zone 8 with a cover, and it made it through, but it wasn’t happy. Check your zone before risking it.
What Happens When a Snake Plant Gets Too Cold?
How to Spot Cold Stress in Your Snake Plant
Cold stress shows up fast in snake plants. Leaves start wilting or drooping, looking sad and limp. You might spot black, mushy, or see-through patches—those are bad signs.
Yellowing leaves can pop up too, especially if the roots get soggy and rot. Growth slows way down in winter, almost like they’re napping. Watch for these clues to catch trouble early.
How Frost and Freezing Affect Snake Plants
Snake plant frost damage can strike quickly when temperatures plummet. When freezing occurs, ice crystals form inside the plant’s cells, tearing them apart and causing irreversible harm.
A Cornell University study confirms this happens in succulents like snake plants below 32°F (0°C)—the damage is both real and often severe.
That’s why leaves hit by snake plant frost damage turn mushy, black, or collapse completely. Once frost destroys the tissue, saving the plant is tough, though swift action might salvage milder cases.
Can Snake Plants Recover from Cold Damage?
Snake plants can recover from cold if the damage isn’t too bad. It depends on how much of the roots and leaves are still alive. Act fast—move them to a warm spot and trim the mushy parts.
I had one get chilly on a porch once; I cut away the dead leaves, and it perked up in a month. Quick action and proper care make the difference.
How to Protect Snake Plants from Cold Weather
Indoor Care for Snake Plants in Winter
Indoor snake plants need a cozy spot in winter. Keep them away from drafty windows or doors—cold air sneaks in there. Don’t shove them next to radiators or vents either; the heat dries them out fast.
A corner with bright, indirect light works best. I’ve found a spot near my living room window (but not touching it) keeps mine happy.
Adjusting Watering Routine
Water less in winter because snake plants slow down and don’t need much water. I water mine every 3-4 weeks, just enough to keep the soil barely damp.
Overwatering can cause root rot, especially in colder rooms. To check, stick your finger an inch into the soil—if it’s dry, it’s time to water.
Humidity and Temperature Control
Snake plants like humidity around 40-50%. Dry winter air can stress them, so I set a small humidifier nearby on extra-cold days.
No humidifier? A tray of water near the plant adds moisture naturally. Keep the room above 50°F (10°C) to avoid trouble—use a thermometer if you’re not sure.
Outdoor Protection for Snake Plants in Cold Climates
Should You Bring Snake Plants Indoors for Winter?
Bring snake plants inside when temps drop below 50°F (10°C). That’s the safest move. If leaves turn yellow or soft outside, they won’t make it.
I learned this the hard way—left one out too long, and it was a goner. Timing matters.
Winterizing Outdoor Snake Plants
Outdoor snake plants need cover in cold snaps. Frost blankets work great—drape them over and secure with rocks. Mulch around the base keeps roots warm; I use straw or bark.
Pick a spot shielded from wind, like near a wall. These tricks can buy you time before moving them in.
Can You Keep a Snake Plant in an Unheated Garage?
An unheated garage is risky for snake plants. Temps can plunge overnight, and they’ll suffer below 40°F (4°C).
If you try it, insulate the pot with bubble wrap and check the forecast. A shed with a small heater is a better bet—I’ve used that successfully.
How to Revive a Cold-Damaged Snake Plant
Assessing the Damage
Check your snake plant’s roots first—they tell the real story. Healthy roots are firm and white; mushy, brown ones mean trouble.
Look at the leaves too—soft or black spots are dead, but firm green parts might survive. Be thorough so you know what you’re working with.
Step-by-Step Recovery Plan
Start by pruning the damaged leaves with clean scissors—cut close to the base. Move the plant to a warm spot, around 65°F (18°C), and let it settle. Water sparingly, just enough to dampen the soil, and skip it if it’s still wet.
A heat mat under the pot can help; I’ve used one to coax a sad plant back. Patience is key—give it weeks to show signs of life.
Snake Plant Varieties & Cold Tolerance Differences
Are Some Snake Plant Types More Cold-Resistant?
Some snake plants handle cold better than others. Thick-leaved varieties, like Sansevieria trifasciata, hold up stronger because they store more water and resist damage. Thin-leaved types, like Sansevieria cylindrica, are more fragile—they wilt faster in a chill.
Variegated ones (with yellow stripes) can be fussier than solid green ones too. It’s all about the leaf structure—thicker means tougher.
Best Snake Plant Varieties for Cold Climates
The most cold-tolerant snake plant is Sansevieria trifasciata, also called Mother-in-Law’s Tongue. It can take a dip to 50°F (10°C) and still look good. I’ve tested this one in a cool room, and it didn’t flinch.
Other hardy picks include Sansevieria ‘Black Gold’—its dark, sturdy leaves shrug off mild cold. If you want something similar but tougher, try a ZZ plant; it’s not a snake plant but laughs at chilly drafts.
Here’s a quick look at how popular snake plant varieties handle the cold:
| Variety | Cold Tolerance | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Sansevieria trifasciata | Down to 50°F (10°C) | Cold climates indoors |
| Sansevieria cylindrica | Down to 55°F (13°C) | Warmer rooms |
| Sansevieria ‘Black Gold’ | Down to 50°F (10°C) | Mild cold with care |
Common Questions About Snake Plant Cold Tolerance
Can Snake Plants Survive a Power Outage in Winter?
Yes, if temps stay above 50°F (10°C). Below that, they’ll struggle—wrap the pot in a blanket near a window.
Do Snake Plants Need Extra Light to Stay Warm in Winter?
No, but they need light to stay healthy. Growth slows in winter, so a few hours of bright, indirect light or a grow lamp prevents weakening in colder rooms.
Can You Use a Heating Pad to Protect Snake Plants from Cold?
Yes, a low-setting heating pad or seedling heat mat under the pot helps if temps drop near 50°F (10°C). Keep it below 85°F (29°C) to prevent drying out.
Are Snake Plants More Cold-Tolerant in Bigger Pots?
Slightly—larger pots hold more soil, providing better insulation. However, if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C), snake plants will still suffer.
Can Snake Plants Adapt to Cold Over Time?
No, snake plants don’t develop cold tolerance. They need consistent warmth above 50°F (10°C) to stay healthy.
What Temperature Is Too Cold for a Snake Plant?
Below 50°F (10°C) is too cold for a snake plant. They can handle 40°F (4°C) briefly, but frost damage begins at 32°F (0°C) or lower.
Can a Snake Plant Survive a Freeze?
No, snake plants are not frost-tolerant. Freezing temperatures (32°F/0°C or lower) cause ice crystals to form inside the leaves, leading to severe damage or death.
Can I Put a Snake Plant in a Room With No Windows?
Snake plants can survive in low light but need some light to thrive. A windowless room might not be ideal for long-term growth.
Is 65 Degrees Too Cold for Houseplants?
No, 65°F (18°C) is ideal for snake plants and most houseplants. They thrive in 60°F to 85°F (15°C to 29°C).
Conclusion
Snake plants are champs at surviving tough spots, but cold weather tests their limits. They love 60°F to 85°F (15°C to 29°C) and can handle down to 50°F (10°C) without a fuss. Below 40°F (4°C), you’ll see wilting, mushy leaves, or worse—total collapse.
Protecting them is simple: keep them warm, watch for stress signs like yellowing, and act fast with pruning or insulation.
My big takeaway? Always bring your snake plant indoors if the forecast dips below 40°F (4°C). It’s the easiest way to keep those green swords standing tall.
