Snake plants, known scientifically as Sansevieria or Dracaena trifasciata, are popular and hardy houseplants that can thrive in various environments.
They are known for their stiff, sword-like leaves and unique growth patterns, making them an attractive addition to your indoor or outdoor space. As you explore the world of snake plants, you may wonder, “How tall do snake plants get?”
Key Takeaway: How Tall Do Snake Plants Get?
Snake plants’ height varies considerably based on their specific variety and the care and conditions provided. Generally, they can grow between 8 inches and 6 feet tall, with most varieties reaching a maximum height of 3-4 feet at a growth rate of about 2 inches per year. Dwarf snake plant varieties are shorter, maxing out around 10 to 12 inches. Some rarer and pricier types can achieve heights of 8-10 feet.
Optimal conditions for development, including temperature, sunlight, and water, play a crucial role in your snake plant’s growth and health. Understanding these aspects and the type of snake plant you’re growing can help your plant reach its full height potential.
Snake Plant Basics
Let’s start with some plant basics, then cover three common snake plant varieties.
Botanical Name & Common Names
The Snake Plant, known under its botanical name Dracaena trifasciata, was formerly categorized as Sansevieria. It goes by other common names, such as Mother-in-Law’s Tongue and Viper’s Bowstring Hemp.
Evergreen Perennial Plant Type
Snake Plants are evergreen perennial plants, meaning they retain their leaves throughout the year and continue to grow for multiple years. They are characterized by stiff, sword-like leaves that can grow from six inches to 12 feet tall in their native habitat.
Indoors, they usually range between two to four feet tall, depending on the variety.
Native Area & History
Dracaena trifasciata is native to West Africa, specifically Nigeria, Congo, and Senegal. The plant has a long history of being used for its air-purifying properties and durability, making it a popular choice for indoor and outdoor use.
With this information as a foundation, you’ll be better equipped to understand and care for your Snake Plant. Remember to consider factors such as light, water, and soil quality to help it thrive and reach its full potential.
Growth & Snake Plant Size
Snake plants’ height and growth rate can vary quite dramatically, adding an element of surprise to your gardening journey. Let’s dive deeper into the characteristics of the most common varieties of snake plants and explore how to enhance their growth.
Snake Plant Height & Growth Rate
Depending on the variety, Snake plants can reach heights anywhere between 2 feet and 5 feet tall. The average growth rate for common types, such as Sansevieria trifasciata, is approximately 2 inches annually.
However, providing optimal growing conditions can help your snake plant reach its mature size faster. As stated above, optimal conditions include appropriate lighting, water, and soil quality.
Varieties & Types
Several different species and varieties of snake plants vary in their mature size and growth rate. Some of the more popular and commonly found types include:
- Sansevieria trifasciata: This is the most common variety of snake plant, with green-banded or striped leaves and a yellow or cream border. It typically reaches a height of about 2 to 3 feet tall.
- Sansevieria trifasciata ‘Laurentii’: A popular variant of the Sansevieria trifasciata species, the Laurentii variety has a striking yellow border along the edges of its leaves. This variety can grow up to 3-4 feet tall.
- Sansevieria cylindrica: Also known as the cylindrical snake plant, this variety has round tube-like leaves reaching up to 5 feet tall. This plant grows at a slower rate compared to the Sansevieria trifasciata.
With these different varieties come varying growth rates and maximum heights, which should be considered when selecting the right snake plant for your space.
By choosing the appropriate variety and providing the proper care, you can help your snake plants reach their full potential in height and appearance.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.