The Tale of the Snake Plant

By Eri Matsumura

The Snake Plant, scientifically known as Dracaena trifasciata (formerly Sansevieria trifasciata), is a popular houseplant admired for its hardiness, architectural form, and ease of care. Known by other common names such as Mother-in-Law’s Tongue and Saint George’s Sword, the Snake Plant has a fascinating origin and rich history, both in its native lands and as a global favorite in modern horticulture. 

The Snake Plant has gone through a long history of renaming. Originally categorized with Aloe by Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus in 1753, the genus Sansevieria was created in 1794 by Linnaeus’ student Carl Peter Thunberg in honor of the Italian scientist and inventor Raimondo di Sangro. Centuries later, in 2017 modern genome sequencing from the DNA Bank at Kew Botanic Gardens placed the snake plant under the correct Dracaena genus.

Dracaena trifasciata is native to Africa, specifically to regions stretching across tropical and subtropical areas, including parts of Nigeria, Congo, and Madagascar. Its natural habitat consists of dry and rocky terrains, often in places with low light and little water. This tolerance to low light conditions and drought is one of the reasons why it has become such a popular choice for indoor plant cultivation worldwide. In some African communities, this plant’s fibers are processed to produce ropes, yarn, and other textiles. Around the world, Snake Plants were often regarded as symbols of protection and strength. In Nigeria, the plant’s erect, sword-like leaves were thought to have protective properties, and were used in rituals to remove the evil eye. In Brazil, it is grown at entrances to safeguard the home. In Korea, it is common to gift a potted snake plant for opening ceremonies of businesses. These plants were also incorporated in herbal medicines, in some parts of Africa and Asia, their leaves are used in the treatment of various ailments like ear infections and swelling. Though not a common component in medicine today, the plant’s enduring role in traditional remedies, craft, and as a symbol of resilience is an important part of its historical significance.

The Snake Plant’s journey from Africa to other parts of the world began in the 18th and 19th centuries, as European colonial expansion led to the exchange of plants between continents. When the plant was introduced to Europe during this period, it quickly became a favorite of botanists and horticulturists. Its ability to thrive in indoor environments, combined with its striking, variegated foliage, made it an appealing addition to homes and botanical gardens. By the mid-19th century, the Snake Plant was well established in Europe, and its popularity began to spread to the United States. In the 20th century, the plant became a staple of American household decor, often found in offices and homes, valued for its aesthetic appeal and low maintenance needs. It is even visible on the porch of the famous American Gothic, painted in 1930 by Grant Wood. 

The Snake Plant’s popularity also grew when it was a subject in the well-known NASA’s Clean Air Study in 1989. This collection of scientific studies began to look into the benefits of certain indoor plants, including the Snake Plant, which was highlighted for its ability to filter out harmful chemicals from the air. However, NASA’s research was never meant to examine how plants affect the air in a normal sized home. Other scientific studies showed that Snake Plants have the ability to perform photosynthesis at night, unlike most plants that only do so during the day. This nighttime absorption of CO2 made it a popular choice for bedrooms. These studies have been commonly misinterpreted to label Snake Plants as air purifying, but the fact is one would need well over 600 plants in a mid-sized home to appreciate any of the benefits. Although these studies were unrealistic for real world conditions, they contributed to the popularity of Snake Plants as houseplants.

The Snake Plant continues to be a beloved houseplant worldwide. Its popularity is due in large part to its hardiness—requiring little water, infrequent repotting, and tolerating low light levels. It is well suited for many indoor environments, where it can thrive in apartments, offices, and homes that may not have access to much natural sunlight. As a result, it has become a fixture in modern interior design, often seen in minimalist spaces, industrial-style homes, and trendy cafes and restaurants. Over the years, the plant has also been cultivated into many varieties, showcasing different colors and patterns, from the classic green and yellow-edged leaves to newer cultivars with more striking markings and different leaf shapes.

From its origins in Africa to its widespread popularity as an indoor plant today, the Snake Plant has had an interesting history marked by its resilience, versatility, and beauty. Its journey to homes around the globe is a testament to the enduring appeal of plants that thrive under difficult conditions. As a symbol of strength and protection, the snake plant continues to be an adored companion in homes and offices. If you haven’t already welcomed a Snake Plant (aka Mother-In-Law’s Tongue) into your life, here’s your signal to make some space. If your mother-in-law takes offense, just remind her what a truly amazing and resilient plant this is!

Originally published on January 31st, 2025. Updated on February 4th, 2025.