Snake plants are among the most popular houseplants, loved for their sleek, sword-like leaves and low-maintenance care. But did you know they belong to the succulent family?
Yes, snake plants (Sansevieria trifasciata) are succulents, known for their ability to store water in their thick leaves, a key characteristic of succulents.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes a plant a succulent, and see how snake plants fit perfectly into this group.
What Makes a Plant Succulent?
What Are Succulents?
Succulent plants typically have the following traits:
- Store water in their thick leaves or stems.
- Can survive in arid conditions with minimal water.
- Efficient photosynthesis, conserving water by breathing at night.
This unique mechanism is why snake plants are great at surviving drought-like conditions. Their water-storing abilities make them adaptable to both dry indoor spaces and low-moisture environments.
Common examples of succulents: Aloe vera, jade plants, and cacti, each showcasing the above traits in their own way.
Succulents vs. Other Plant Types
Unlike other plants that thrive with frequent watering and nutrient-rich soil, succulents are specifically adapted to survive in harsh environments. They can grow in poor soil and require far less care.
Understanding Snake Plants
The Origins of Snake Plants
Snake plants (Sansevieria trifasciata, now reclassified as Dracaena trifasciata) originate from West Africa, where they grow in naturally arid conditions. Known for their upright, sword-shaped leaves with striking green patterns, they’re often referred to as mother-in-law’s tongue.
These hardy houseplants thrive in diverse conditions. Ranging from low light to bright indirect sunlight. Their unique adaptability makes them an excellent choice for beginner and seasoned plant owners alike.
Wondering which type of snake plant is right for you? Explore our guide to 15 Stunning Types of Snake Plants to find your perfect match.
Traits That Resemble Succulents
Snake plants share some key features with succulents, including:
- Thick leaves: Store water to survive dry periods.
- Drought-resistant: Require minimal watering like aloe vera and jade plants.
- Adaptable: Thrive in low-moisture environments.
These traits help snake plants thrive in dry conditions. Their ability to store water in their cells is one of the key characteristics that make them similar to succulents. This is one reason why snake plants are so easy to care for, as they require little attention and minimal succulent care.
Curious about how succulents, including snake plants, manage to store water and survive in dry conditions? Learn more in this study from Current Biology.
Now that we understand what makes snake plants similar to succulents, let’s tackle the big question: Are snake plants true succulents?
Are Snake Plants True Succulents?
Yes, snake plants are true succulents. They belong to the Asparagaceae family and their ability to store water in their thick leaves helps them survive in arid conditions, making them true succulents.
However: They are not cacti. Unlike cacti, which feature spines, snake plants have sleek, sword-like leaves without spines.
Curious about how tall these succulents can grow? Learn about the growth patterns in our article on How Tall Do Snake Plants Grow?
Why Snake Plants Are Often Confused With Non-Succulents
Common Misconceptions
While snake plants share several traits with succulents, they’re often confused with non-succulents due to some of their unique features.
Here are the most common misconceptions:
- Air-Purifying: They are famous for their air-purifying properties.
- Unique Appearance: Their tall, upright leaves differ from the “rosette” (A rosette is a circular arrangement of leaves seen in plants like echeveria) shape of many traditional succulents.
How Snake Plants Differ From Traditional Succulents
While they share some similarities, they have unique traits:
- Light Tolerance: Most succulents prefer bright sunlight, but snake plants can thrive in low-light spaces.
- Growth Style: Traditional succulents often grow in compact, round shapes, while snake plants feature tall, architectural leaves.
Succulent Benefits of Snake Plants
Low-Maintenance Watering
Snake plants require minimal watering, only every 2–4 weeks. This is a key succulent benefit, making them perfect for busy or forgetful plant owners!
Drought-Tolerance
Like other succulents, snake plants can survive long periods without water, making them highly resilient in sporadic care situations. This succulent benefit ensures they thrive even with less frequent attention, making them ideal for those who travel or have busy schedules.
Aesthetic Appeal
Their tall, sculptural leaves complement minimalist or modern home decor styles. Beyond their striking appearance, succulents like the snake plant also purify indoor air, adding both beauty and functionality to your space.
If you’re looking to explore the benefits of snake plants in more detail, check out our guide on 10 Surprising Benefits of Snake Plants for a Healthier Home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
To answer some common questions, here are a few FAQs about snake plants:
Are snake plants considered succulents?
A: Yes, snake plants are succulents because they store water in their thick leaves, which helps them survive in dry conditions.
Are snake plants cacti?
No. Unlike cacti, which have spines, snake plants feature long, sword-like leaves.
Can snake plants survive outdoors like other succulents?
Yes, they can grow outdoors in mild climates but should be protected from frost and excessive rain.
How often should I water my snake plant?
Snake plants are drought-tolerant and only need watering every 2–4 weeks.
Do snake plants need succulent-specific soil?
While not mandatory, using well-draining soil (like a cactus or succulent mix) can prevent root rot.
How do I know if my snake plant is overwatered?
Look for signs like mushy leaves, yellowing, or a foul smell from the soil. Allow the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Final Thought
If you love succulents and want a plant that’s both beautiful and easy to care for, snake plants are the perfect choice. Curious to learn more about these versatile plants?
Check out our Ultimate Guide to Snake Plants for expert tips and all the information you need to keep your plant thriving.
