If there’s one plant that every home should have, it’s the snake plant, also known as Sansevieria trifasciata or Mother-in-Law’s Tongue.
These hardy beauties are practically indestructible, and yet, they look elegant enough to steal the spotlight in any room.
But did you know there are dozens of snake plant varieties, each with its own unique look?
From silver-toned leaves to dark emerald spears, here are ten stunning Sansevieria trifasciata types that deserve a place in your collection.
1. Laurentii – The Timeless Classic
You’ve probably seen this one in offices and living rooms everywhere. Sansevieria trifasciata ‘Laurentii’ features tall green leaves edged in bright yellow.
It’s both graceful and forgiving, the kind of plant that thrives even if you forget to water it for weeks.
Since it’s tolerant of neglect, this variety is perfect for busy plant lovers or anyone just starting out with indoor gardening.
2. Moonshine – The Silvery Beauty
Soft, silvery-green leaves with a muted sheen make the Moonshine variety a standout. It has a gentle, calming presence that adds a modern, airy touch to any space.
When placed in medium to bright light, the silvery tone becomes even more luminous, creating a subtle glow.
You can use well-draining soil to prevent moisture buildup as this variety prefers things on the drier side, just like most snake plants.
3. Black Diamond – The Dramatic One
Black Diamond is a plant with personality – dark, almost black leaves that look sophisticated in minimalist or modern interiors.
The color deepens in shadier spaces, while in brighter light it takes on a deep, glossy green.
It thrives on infrequent watering, storing moisture in its thick leaves, and looks particularly striking in white or stone-colored planters.
4. Futura Superba – The Compact Powerhouse
If you love Laurentii but don’t have room for a large plant, Futura Superba gives you the same charm in a smaller, denser package.
The leaves feature the same green centers and yellow margins but grow in a tighter rosette form.
It enjoys bright, indirect light and is easy to maintain, rarely exceeding two feet tall, a great choice for desks, tabletops, or windowsills.
5. Zeylanica – The Natural Pattern
The Zeylanica variety is all about texture and pattern. Its long, gently wavy leaves feature subtle green marbling that resembles brushstrokes.
It’s an adaptable, low-maintenance plant that tolerates low light but looks more vibrant in brighter spots.
Wipe the leaves occasionally to keep the marbled pattern visible, a small effort that makes a big visual difference.
6. Golden Flame – The Fiery Accent
With bold yellow and green leaves that seem to radiate from the base, Golden Flame is an instant mood booster.
It looks as though sunlight is trapped within its foliage, making it an excellent choice for adding warmth to cool-toned rooms.
You place it in a bright spot to enhance the color intensity, and let the soil dry completely before watering again.
7. Grey Stripe – The Modern Minimalist
If you’re drawn to clean lines and cool tones, Grey Stripe will feel right at home in your collection.
Its long, narrow leaves feature subtle gray bands that add a sleek, sculptural quality.
This variety is happiest in bright, indirect light but can tolerate less if needed.
It prefers a little neglect as overwatering can dull the beauty of its leaves, so water sparingly and enjoy its effortless elegance.
8. Aubrytiana Dragon – The Bold and Leafy Type
With broad, textured leaves that resemble dragon scales, the Aubrytiana Dragon variety lives up to its name.
It’s bold, dramatic, and makes a strong statement wherever it’s placed. It enjoys moderate to bright light and doesn’t demand much care.
Even if you forget to water it for a week or two, it remains strong and vibrant, making it an excellent plant for those who want tropical flair without the maintenance.
9. Metallica – The Elegant Silver-Green
Refined and understated, Sansevieria Metallica stands out with long, arched leaves in muted shades of green and silver.
It brings a calm, spa-like vibe to any room and loves bright, filtered light that highlights its silvery sheen.
This variety is a natural air purifier, releasing oxygen even at night.
10. Canary – The Bright Touch
True to its name, the Canary snake plant brings a burst of brightness wherever it grows.
Its vivid lime-green and yellow variegation livens up any corner, even in rooms with limited sunlight.
It’s a resilient variety that doesn’t demand constant attention and thrives on minimal watering.
The upright, narrow leaves make it ideal for small apartments or narrow spaces that need a little life and color.
Caring for Snake Plants
Light
Snake plants adapt easily to most environments. While they can survive in low light, they grow faster and show richer color in bright, indirect sunlight.
Variegated varieties like Laurentii or Golden Flame particularly love brighter spots to maintain their striking yellow tones.
Water
These plants prefer being too dry rather than too wet.
You water them only when the soil is completely dry, typically every two to four weeks depending on humidity and light.
During winter, reduce watering even more since the plant goes semi-dormant.
Soil
Good drainage is key. Use a cactus or succulent mix that allows excess water to escape quickly. Always choose pots with drainage holes to prevent root rot.
Temperature and Humidity
Snake plants love warmth and can handle normal indoor humidity easily.
Keep them away from drafty windows or cold air during winter. They prefer temperatures between 60°F and 85°F (16°C-29°C).
Propagation
It’s easy to multiply your snake plant collection. You need to cut a healthy leaf, let it dry for a day, then place it in water or directly into soil.
Within a few weeks, roots will appear, and you’ll have a brand-new plant ready to thrive.
