You know that moment when you bring home your first snake plant, and suddenly you’re browsing plant shops every weekend looking for “just one more”? Yeah, I’ve been there. What starts as a single, nearly indestructible houseplant quickly spirals into a full-blown Sansevieria obsession.
Here’s the wild part—there are actually dozens of snake plant varieties out there, each with its own vibe. Some look like abstract sculptures, others could pass as underwater plants, and a few are so compact they fit in a teacup. I’ve spent years (and way too much money) building my collection, and I’m here to break down everything you need to know about these incredible plants.
Why Snake Plants Hook You (And Never Let Go)
Let’s be honest: serious plant collecting begins with snake plants. They thrive in low light, withstand neglect, and somehow elevate any space. But when you find out that they come in wildly different sizes, shapes, and colors, things become dangerous for your pocketbook.
I had assumed that all snake plants were the same until I saw a Moonshine at a local nursery. That silvery sheen completely changed my viewpoint. I can’t go by a plant store these days without asking if they have any varieties that I don’t currently own. The struggle is real.
The Sansevieria Family Tree: Understanding the Basics
Before we get into specific types, let’s talk about what motivates these plants. Sansevieria was recently reclassified as Dracaena, but it is still a member of the Asparagaceae family. The fact that they are native to southern Asia and Africa explains their resistance to drought.
These plants grow from underground stems called rhizomes, which spread and produce new growth. This explains why your snake plant’s edges are suddenly covered in babies. It’s not magic; it’s just doing what comes naturally.
What Makes Each Variety Unique?
The most important clue is the leaf structure. Some have cylindrical tubes, while others have flat, sword-like leaves. The types differ significantly in terms of thickness, width, and flexibility.
Solid greens and complex variegations with yellows, silvers, and even near-black hues are examples of color patterns. In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, these patterns actually assist you in recognizing your strengths.
The tall, architectural types and the small desk-dwellers differ in their growth habits. Knowing this makes it easier to select the ideal plant for your area (and keeps you from putting a future giant in a tiny corner).
The Essential Varieties Every Collector Needs
Allow me to guide you through the types that are the cornerstone of any reputable collection of snake plants. These are the ones you’ll see most frequently, and to be honest, there’s a good reason for their popularity.
The Traditional Sansevieria Trifasciata ‘Laurentii’
This is most likely what comes to mind when you hear the term “snake plant.” Horizontal green bands run through the center of the leaves, which are framed on both sides by bright yellow margins. When fully grown, the leaves are upright and tall, reaching a height of three to four feet.
I got my first Laurentii from my grandmother’s collection after she passed. That plant has survived three moves, countless forgotten waterings, and even a brief stint in a basement with zero windows. It’s now pushing five feet tall and still looks phenomenal.
The yellow edges are created by a genetic mutation, which is why you need to propagate through division to maintain them. Leaf cuttings will give you all-green babies—learned that one the hard way.
Sansevieria Trifasciata ‘Moonshine’: The Showstopper
Moonshine is the glamorous one who appears and steals the show, while Laurentii is the trustworthy friend. The leaves have slightly darker edges and are a light shade of silvery-green, almost ghostly. It looks smooth and elegant because the banding is hardly noticeable.
This variety is popular on Instagram because of how well it takes pictures. The leaves have a slightly powdery appearance and are wider than those of Laurentii. They almost glow in intense indirect light.
Just so you know, Moonshine is a little more demanding than other types. It is pickier about overwatering and requires a little more light to keep that distinctive hue. However, the extra focus is worthwhile due to the visual impact.
Sansevieria Cylindrica: The Architectural Marvel
Have you ever seen a snake plant that seems to belong in a museum of contemporary art? Cylindrica is that. The leaves are straight-up, perfectly round tubes that can grow up to two or three feet in height. Although I prefer to let them grow naturally, some growers braid them to create living sculptures.
When you look closely, you can see faint banding on the smooth surface. I’ve jabbed myself several times while repotting because the tips end in sharp points. These plants produce eye-catching vertical accents in any space and spread gradually through underground rhizomes.
Sansevieria Hahnii: The Compact Cutie
Not everyone has space for towering plants, and that’s where Hahnii varieties shine. These dwarf snake plants form low rosettes that max out around 6-8 inches tall. The leaves spiral outward from the center, creating a nest-like pattern.
They come in several color variations:
| Variety | Appearance | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Hahnii | Dark green with bands | Classic look, small spaces |
| Golden Hahnii | Yellow/cream edges | Bright accent pieces |
| Silver Hahnii | Silvery-green tone | Modern, minimalist decor |
I keep a cluster of different Hahnii varieties on my desk. They’re perfect for small spaces and don’t overwhelm limited square footage. Plus, they’re conversation starters during video calls.
Sansevieria Trifasciata ‘Black Gold’: The Moody One
Imagine a darker, more dramatic Laurentii. Black Gold is known for its deep green to almost black leaves with contrasting golden-yellow margins. The leaves are narrower and the atmosphere is more sophisticated overall.
This variety prefers bright light; its coloring gets darker and more intense the more sunlight it gets (indirectly, of course). When it fades to a more traditional green in lower light, it kind of defeats the purpose. If you give it a bright spot, it will reward you with those beautiful dark tones.
The Unique Varieties That’ll Make You Look Like a Pro
Once you’ve got the basics covered, it’s time to branch out into the weird and wonderful world of unusual Sansevierias. These are the plants that make other enthusiasts stop mid-conversation and ask, “Wait, that’s a snake plant?”
Sansevieria Masoniana (Whale Fin): The Statement Piece
Forget everything you know about how snake plants typically grow. Masoniana produces one or two massive paddle-shaped leaves that can reach heights of four feet and widths of one foot. The mottling pattern is made up of dark green splotches on a lighter background, much like camouflage.
This variety saw a significant price increase a few years ago due to its increased popularity. I paid way too much for a single-leaf specimen, but really? I don’t regret anything. It is an eye-catching living sculpture. Just be aware that because it grows slowly, patience is needed.
The single-leaf growth habit makes it polarizing. Some people love the minimalist aesthetic; others think it looks incomplete. IMO, it’s gorgeous and worth every penny.
Sansevieria Kirkii: The Wild Child
Kirkii violates every rule pertaining to snake plants. The leaves grow in a loose, fountain-like pattern with reddish-brown margins and wavy edges. Compared to typical varieties, the leaves are more flexible and narrower, occasionally curling at the tips.
Through rhizomes, this variety spreads quickly. In just two years, the little plant I started grew to fill a 12-inch pot. It’s ideal for making lush, full displays because of its growth habit, but you’ll need to divide it frequently if you don’t want it to take over.
Sansevieria Bacularis (Mikado): The Minimalist
Imagine Cylindrica went on a diet and got super skinny. Bacularis has pencil-thin cylindrical leaves that grow in tight, upright clusters. They can reach 2-3 feet but take up minimal horizontal space.
I’ve got one squeezed between two bookcases in a narrow spot where nothing else would fit. It thrives there, proving these plants really can handle almost anything. The ultra-slim profile makes it perfect for small apartments or cluttered shelves.
Sansevieria Boncel (Starfish): The Conversation Starter
Here’s a weird one—Boncel has thick, short, fan-shaped leaves that grow in a rosette pattern. Each leaf is broad and chunky, creating an almost geometric appearance. The banding pattern is visible but subtle.
This variety stays compact (under 12 inches) and grows slowly. I keep mine on a bathroom shelf where it gets bright, indirect light and occasional steam from showers. It’s thriving and constantly drawing questions from guests who’ve never seen anything like it.
Understanding Variegation and Color Mutations
Ever ponder why some snake plants cost three times as much as others? Variegation is typically the answer. Genetic mutations that result in patterns that are yellow, white, or cream in color have captured the attention of plant collectors.
Variegation can be unpredictable, which is the issue. Propagating a variegated variety from a leaf cutting often results in solid green offspring. Because the variegation is found in specific cell layers, leaf cuttings may not always retain it.
To maintain variegation, the plant needs to be split at the rhizome. This ensures that the genetic makeup of the new plant is identical to that of its parent. After a few Laurentii leaf cuttings lost their beautiful yellow edges, I realized this. A novice mistake
Some varieties with variegation include:
- Sansevieria ‘Bantel’s Sensation’: Vertical white stripes
- Sansevieria ‘Futura Superba’: Broad yellow margins
- Sansevieria ‘Twisted Sister’: Variegated dwarf with twisted growth
These special varieties command higher prices, but they’re worth it if you’re building a serious collection.
Rare and Hard-to-Find Varieties Worth Hunting
Are you prepared to advance your collection? Although more difficult to locate, these types are well worth the hunt (and the high cost).
The thick, clustered leaves of Sansevieria Francisii have reddish-brown edges and a blue-green color. It grows in a distinctive, nearly artificial stacked pattern.
Sansevieria Ehrenbergii, also known as Blue Sansevieria, has powder-blue leaves that resemble boats. There are no other snake plant varieties that have the same color.
Compared to other snake plants, Sansevieria Pinguicula has short, fat leaves that appear more succulent. It is a collector’s favorite due to its compact growth and reddish margins.
Instead of horizontal banding, Sansevieria Trifasciata ‘Bantel’s Sensation’ has vertical white stripes. Although gorgeous, it grows very slowly and is prone to rotting if overwatered.
I’ve spent months looking for an affordable Ehrenbergii. However, part of the fun is the search; there’s a sense of accomplishment when you finally find a rare variety you’ve been looking for.
Care Tips That Apply to All Varieties
Despite their differences, all Sansevierias share similar care requirements. These plants evolved in harsh environments, which makes them ridiculously forgiving houseplants.
Light: They do well in bright, indirect light, but they can withstand low light. More light is required for variegated varieties to keep their patterns. I have plants that thrive in every kind of lighting.
Less is more when it comes to water. Depending on the circumstances, water the soil every two to four weeks once it is totally dry. More snake plants die from root rot caused by overwatering than anything else.
Soil: Use a well-draining mixture; succulent/cactus soil is ideal. Regular potting soil is problematic because it retains too much moisture.
Temperature: The room temperature is acceptable. Although they can withstand a wide range, they dislike sudden cold drafts and temperatures below 50°F.
Although optional, fertilizer is helpful during the growing season. In the spring and summer, I apply diluted liquid fertilizer every few months.
Building Your Collection Strategically
Want to know the secret to a killer snake plant collection? Start with variety, not quantity. Get plants that look different from each other—mix tall and short, cylindrical and flat, light and dark.
I recommend this starting collection:
- Laurentii for the classic look
- Moonshine for that silvery elegance
- A Hahnii variety for compact spaces
- Cylindrica for architectural interest
- Masoniana as your statement piece
This gives you diverse shapes, sizes, and colors without overwhelming your space or budget. From there, add rare varieties as you find them.
Where to Source Different Varieties
Laurentii, Moonshine, and, if you’re lucky, Cylindrica are the staples that can be found at local nurseries. If you’re looking for unusual varieties, you’ll need to connect with other collectors or go online.
Online plant retailers like Steve’s Leaves and The Sill, as well as specialty Etsy sellers, offer additional options. Analyze customer-provided images and pay close attention to reviews.
Local groups and plant exchanges are gold mines for rare varieties. Some of my best plants were acquired through trades with other enthusiasts. Additionally, you meet people who share your obsession.
Big box stores sometimes surprise you with unusual varieties at low prices. I found Boncel and Black Gold at Home Depot. Check often because inventory is constantly changing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Allow me to save you from the mistakes I’ve made in the past. Snake plants prefer to be somewhat rootbound, so don’t repot them too often. Every year I would repot my plants and wonder why they weren’t doing well.
Really, overwatering kills more Sansevierias than anything else, so stop it. Wait another week if you’re unsure.
These plants, especially rare varieties, grow slowly, so don’t expect them to grow quickly. It’s possible that the pricey Masoniana won’t produce a new leaf for six months. It’s important to be patient.
You will lose the unique coloring if you cut leaves from variegated varieties. For variegated plants, always divide at the rhizome.
Final Thoughts
My house is completely overrun with snake plants, and I wouldn’t want it any other way. Every variety adds something different to the room, from the enormous Laurentii in my living room to the small Hahnii collection on my desk.
The great thing about collecting Sansevierias is that they are almost impossible to kill, so you can experiment without worrying about losing plants all the time. Learn about the peculiarities of the first one or two varieties that appeal to you, then progressively add more to your collection.
Whether you’re drawn to the architectural drama of Cylindrica, the ethereal beauty of Moonshine, or the compact charm of Hahnii varieties, there’s a snake plant out there calling your name. Trust me—once you start collecting, you’ll understand why we snake plant lovers can’t get enough of these incredible plants.
Now go forth and build that collection. Your future plant-obsessed self will thank you!