Today, we are going to talk about the ultimate easy-care plant: the snake plant!
No matter if you’re new to gardening or a total pro, you’ve probably seen this plant around. I first got into snake plants when I realized how many different types there are.
They’re super low-maintenance (perfect for us forgetful plant parents) and those green and yellow leaves look amazing in any room.
What’s really cool is that snake plants come in all sorts of shapes and sizes – some are tall and straight, others are short and twisty, and a few even have unique colors.
Now, I’m going to show you 10 popular types of snake plants you can add to your collection, along with a few simple tips to keep them happy!
1. Mother-in-Law’s Tongue ‘Moonshine’ Has Unusual Pale Leaves
We are going to start with my favorite plant!
Meet the Sansevieria moonshine, a snake plant variety known for its smooth, silvery-green leaves without the usual marbling (yes, these snake plants exist!).
I keep mine in bright light so that the leaves stay pale (they turn dark green if kept in low light settings). And if everything goes well, your plant might even produce small white flowers!
Snake plants are popular thanks to their sword-like leaves, but sometimes they might bloom. If you want to trigger blooming, make sure to check: Get Your Snake Plant To Bloom With These 5 Brilliant Methods
2. The Mikado Variety Is Known For Its Thin, Upright Leaves
The Sansevieria bacularis, or “Mikado,” stands out with its thin, cylindrical leaves that grow in upright spikes with subtle green marbling.
Originally from Central Africa, this unusual snake plant can bring a cool, sculptural vibe to any space!
Related: The Meaning Of Snake Plant And Its Cultural Symbolism
3. The Kenya Hyacinth Is Perfect For Hanging Baskets
Although not as popular as other varieties, Kenya hyacinth is a beautiful snake plant that’s perfect for hanging baskets. Its thin, arching leaves spread out from a central rosette which makes the plant even more unique.
What’s also great is that it can bloom with lovely white flowers that give off a sweet, hyacinth-like fragrance!
Related: What Is A Snake Plant Flower + Tips To Make It Grow
4. The Whale Fin Snake Plant Produces Giant, Paddle-Like Leaves
The Whale Fin plant is not like other typical snake plants – it stands out with its giant, paddle-like leaves and cute dappled patterns. Often growing as just one or two large leaves per pot, it adds texture and style to any room.
Originally from Central Africa, this plant is now loved worldwide as a decorative houseplant. There’s even a variegated version with lovely stripes that run the length of the leaf (if you are into variegated types!).
Related: Trim Your Snake Plant This Way And It Will Grow Like Crazy
5. The Curly Leaves Of Twisted Sister Make This Variety Fun And Unique
Twister Sister is a fun snake plant variety with curly leaves that spiral around each other. This lively look makes it a charming addition to any plant collection.
And if you grow it as a dwarf variety, it stays compact – ideal for cheering up a desk or windowsill!
Related: Braid Your Snake Plant Like A Pro Using These Brilliant Tips
6. The Variegated Snake Plant Is Basically A Natural Air Purifier
The variegated snake plant is famous for its striking marbled green leaves outlined in vibrant yellow. This popular variety creates a bold statement with its tall and upright leaves.
Fun fact: this was the star plant in NASA’s Clean Air Study, proving its excellent air-purifying abilities!
Related: Is A Snake Plant Oxygen Supplier? NASA Research Claims So
7. Mother-In-Law’s Tongue Is The Original Snake Plant
Mother-in-law’s tongue is the original snake plant variety that gave rise to many others. Growing from a creeping rhizome, it produces clusters of tall, sword-like leaves (hence its other nickname, “Saint George’s sword”).
This classic snake plant is known for its resilience and distinctive, upright shape, which makes it a staple in many homes.
Related: Use These Tips To Choose The Best Pot For A Snake Plant And Enjoy Watching It Thrive
8. The African Spear Plant Makes A Stunning Focal Point
The African spear plant is native to tropical southern Africa and known for its thin, spear-shaped, cylindrical leaves.
This hardy plant makes a stunning focal point with its eccentric look, and it comes in a few different varieties, such as Sansevieria cylindrica ‘Spaghetti’ and Sansevieria cylindrica ‘Patula.’
Related: Skinny Snake Plant Care Guide + Issues And Solutions
9. Indian Bowstring Hemp Is Tough And Subtle
Indian bowstring hemp is a tough snake plant variety with sword-shaped leaves in a beautiful mix of deep and light green marbling.
Unlike the more common variegated snake plant, this one skips the bright yellow edges, which makes it more subtle (but still just as striking).
Related: Your Snake Plant Isn’t Growing? These Are The 11 Potential Culprits And Best Way To Fix It
10. African Bowstring Hemp Can Even Produce Flowers And Fruits
African bowstring hemp gets its name from the plant’s strong fibers, which were historically used to make bowstrings.
This variety features flat, green leaves with silvery-green speckles, and it may even produce white flowers and small orange fruit (if given the right conditions).
These are some of the most popular varieties, known for their gorgeous looks and easy care. Ready to add another unique one to your collection?
If you need more ideas, here’s another great snake plant variety: A Complete Guide To Rattlesnake Plant Care + Common Issues