About the Snake Plant
Architectural, near-indestructible, and happy to be ignored. The snake plant stores water in its stiff upright leaves, making it the go-to for forgetful waterers and low-light corners.
Light
Survives in low light and thrives in bright, indirect light. Avoid prolonged direct sun, which can bleach the leaves.
Watering
Water sparingly — every 2 to 4 weeks, letting the soil dry completely. Overwatering and cold, soggy soil are the only things that reliably kill it.
Propagation
Divide the rhizome at repotting, or root a leaf cutting in soil (note: variegated forms lose their stripe from leaf cuttings).
Common problems
Mushy base or leaves
Root rot from overwatering. Cut away rot, let it dry, and water far less.
Wrinkled leaves
Underwatered for a long stretch — give it a thorough drink and resume a light schedule.
Drooping, splaying leaves
Too little light or overwatering. Brighten its spot and ease off water.