The Benefits of Snake Plant are numerous and impactful, making it a popular choice for indoor gardening enthusiasts. Known for its hardiness and unique aesthetic appeal, the Snake Plant offers a multitude of advantages that extend beyond its beauty. From purifying the air to improving mental health, the benefits of this plant are truly remarkable. In this article, we will delve into the top 10 benefits of the Snake Plant, shedding light on why it deserves a spot in your home or office. Let’s explore these benefits together.
What is a Snake Plant?
A snake plant is a type of succulent plant that belongs to the Asparagaceae family. It is native to Africa, Asia, and Australia, and can survive in a wide range of climates and conditions. It is also known as viper’s bowstring hemp, because its fibers were used to make bowstrings by some African tribes.
Snake plants have rhizomes, which are underground stems that store water and nutrients. They can also produce small, fragrant, white flowers that bloom at night. However, flowering is rare for indoor snake plants and depends on factors such as age, light, and temperature.
Types of Snake Plants
There are many varieties of snake plants, each with its own unique appearance and characteristics. Some of the most common ones are:
- Sansevieria trifasciata: This is the most widely available and recognizable type of snake plant. It has dark green leaves with horizontal yellow stripes along the edges. It can grow up to 3 feet tall and is very tolerant of low light and drought.
- Sansevieria cylindrica: This type has cylindrical, smooth, and pointed leaves that grow in a fan shape. It can reach up to 2 feet in height and has a more modern and minimalist look. It prefers bright light and moderate water.
- Sansevieria zeylanica: This type has long, narrow, and slightly curved leaves that are dark green with lighter green spots and stripes. It can grow up to 2.5 feet tall and is also very adaptable to different light and water conditions.
- Sansevieria hahnii: This type has short, broad, and flat leaves that form a rosette shape. It is also known as the bird’s nest snake plant because of its resemblance to a bird’s nest. It can grow up to 1 foot tall and likes bright light and occasional water.
- Sansevieria laurentii: This type has long, slender, and pointed leaves that are dark green with yellow margins. It is also known as the golden hahnii snake plant because of its coloration. It can grow up to 4 feet tall and is one of the most air-purifying snake plants.
Care Tips
Snake plants are very easy to care for and require minimal attention. Here are some basic tips to keep your snake plant healthy and happy:
Light
Snake plants can tolerate low light, but they prefer bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch their leaves. Rotate your snake plant occasionally to ensure even growth.
Water
Snake plants are drought-tolerant and can go for weeks without water. Overwatering is the main cause of their death, as it can lead to root rot and fungal infections. Water your snake plant only when the soil is completely dry, and reduce watering in winter. Use well-draining soil and a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Temperature
Snake plants can withstand a wide range of temperatures, from 10°C to 30°C. However, they do not like sudden changes or extremes of heat or cold. Keep them away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners. If you live in a cold climate, bring your snake plant indoors during winter.
Humidity
Snake plants are not fussy about humidity and can adapt to most indoor environments. However, they may benefit from some misting or wiping of their leaves to remove dust and pests. Avoid getting water on their leaves, as it can cause them to rot or discolor.
Fertilizer
Snake plants do not need much fertilizer, as they are slow-growing and have low nutrient requirements. You can feed your snake plant once or twice a year with a balanced, diluted, liquid fertilizer during spring or summer. Do not fertilize in winter, as it can cause leaf burn or excess growth.
Propagation
Snake plants are easy to propagate and can be done in several ways. You can divide the rhizomes, cut the leaves, or use the offsets or pups that grow from the base of the plant. Use a sharp and sterile knife or scissors to make the cuts, and let them dry for a day or two before planting them in moist soil. Keep them in a warm and bright place until they root.
Snake Plant Benefits
Now that you know how to care for your snake plant, let’s look at some of the amazing benefits it can offer you.
1. Prevent Allergies
One of the benefits of snake plant is that it can help prevent or reduce allergies and asthma. This is because snake plants can filter out harmful substances from the air, such as dust, pollen, mold, and pet dander. They can also absorb volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are chemicals that are emitted from paints, cleaners, carpets, and other household products. These substances can cause irritation, inflammation, and respiratory problems in some people.
Snake plants can also produce oxygen at night, unlike most other plants that do it during the day. This can improve the air quality and oxygen levels in your bedroom, which can help you breathe better and sleep more soundly.
2. Feng Shui
Another benefit of snake plant is that it can enhance the feng shui of your home or office. Feng shui is an ancient Chinese art and science that deals with the flow of energy or chi in a space. It aims to create harmony, balance, and prosperity by arranging the elements, colors, and objects in a certain way.
Snake plants are considered to be good luck plants in feng shui, as they can attract positive energy and ward off negative energy. They can also symbolize protection, strength, and resilience, as they can survive in harsh conditions and repel evil spirits. Snake plants are especially beneficial for the following areas of your home or office:
- Entrance: Placing a snake plant near the entrance of your home or office can welcome good fortune and guests. It can also protect you from bad influences and prevent the loss of energy.
- Living Room: Placing a snake plant in the living room can create a lively and cozy atmosphere. It can also boost the mood and communication of the people in the room.
- Bedroom: Placing a snake plant in the bedroom can promote relaxation and romance. It can also improve the sleep quality and health of the occupants.
- Bathroom: Placing a snake plant in the bathroom can counteract the negative energy and moisture that are often present in this area. It can also purify the air and prevent mold and bacteria growth.
3. Low-Maintenance
One of the benefits of snake plant is that it is very low-maintenance and easy to grow. As mentioned earlier, snake plants can tolerate low light, drought, and temperature variations. They can also resist pests and diseases, and do not need much pruning or repotting. They are ideal for busy or forgetful people who do not have much time or experience in gardening.
However, this does not mean that you can neglect your snake plant completely. You still need to water it occasionally, fertilize it sparingly, and check it for signs of stress or damage. You also need to provide it with enough space and light to grow and thrive.
4. Mental Health Booster
Another benefit of snake plant is that it can boost your mental health and well-being. Studies have shown that having plants in your home or office can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. They can also improve your mood, memory, concentration, and creativity. They can also make you feel more connected to nature and yourself.
Snake plants are especially good for your mental health, as they can produce oxygen and purify the air at night. This can help you relax and sleep better, which can have a positive impact on your mood and cognition. They can also add some color and texture to your space, which can stimulate your senses and inspire you.
5. Easy Propagation
One of the benefits of snake plant is that it is easy to propagate and share with others. As mentioned earlier, snake plants can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes, cutting the leaves, or using the offsets or pups. You can do this anytime of the year, but spring and summer are the best seasons for faster and better results.
Propagating your snake plant can be a fun and rewarding activity, as you can create more plants for yourself or give them as gifts to your friends and family. You can also experiment with different varieties and combinations of snake plants, and create your own unique collection.
6. Air Purifier
One of the benefits of snake plant is that it is an excellent air purifier and can improve the indoor air quality of your home or office. As mentioned earlier, snake plants can filter out harmful substances from the air, such as dust, pollen, mold, pet dander, and VOCs. They can also produce oxygen and remove carbon dioxide at night, unlike most other plants that do the opposite.
7. Dust Filter
One of the benefits of snake plant is that it can act as a natural dust filter for your home or office. This is because snake plants have microscopic hairs on their leaves that can trap and collect dust particles from the air. This can reduce the amount of dust that settles on your furniture, floors, and electronics, and make your space cleaner and healthier.
Dust can be a source of allergens, irritants, and pollutants that can affect your respiratory system and skin. By having a snake plant in your space, you can minimize your exposure to dust and improve your comfort and well-being.
8. Better Sleep
Another benefit of snake plant is that it can help you sleep better at night. As mentioned earlier, snake plants can produce oxygen and remove carbon dioxide at night, which can improve the oxygen levels and air quality in your bedroom. This can help you breathe easier and more deeply, which can promote relaxation and restfulness.
Snake plants can also reduce the noise levels in your space, as they can absorb and deflect sound waves. This can create a quieter and more peaceful environment for sleeping. Additionally, snake plants can regulate the temperature and humidity in your space, as they can release water vapor and cool the air. This can make your space more comfortable and cozy for sleeping.
9. Boost Productivity
Another benefit of snake plant is that it can boost your productivity and performance at work or school. Studies have shown that having plants in your workspace can increase your attention, creativity, and problem-solving skills. They can also reduce your stress, fatigue, and errors, and improve your mood and satisfaction.
Snake plants are especially good for your productivity, as they can improve the air quality and oxygen levels in your workspace, which can enhance your cognitive abilities and mental clarity. They can also add some color and life to your workspace, which can stimulate your senses and inspire you.
10. Anti-Cancer Plant
One of the benefits of snake plant is that it can help prevent or fight cancer. This is because snake plants can remove carcinogens from the air, such as benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene. These are chemicals that are found in tobacco smoke, vehicle exhaust, and industrial emissions, and can cause damage to your DNA and cells.
Snake plants can also boost your immune system, as they can produce phytochemicals that can activate your natural killer cells. These are white blood cells that can destroy tumor cells and infected cells. By having a snake plant in your space, you can protect yourself from the harmful effects of pollution and enhance your body’s ability to fight cancer.
Other Snake Plant Benefits
Snake plants are a great oxygen producing houseplant that can filter indoor air and remove toxic pollutants. They can also release nighttime oxygen and absorb CO2 at night, making them ideal for bedroom decor. Snake plants are low-maintenance and easy to care for, and they can enhance the energy and ambiance of any space.
If you are looking for a plant that can do it all, look no further than the snake plant. It is a versatile, resilient, and beneficial plant that can improve your life in many ways. Get yourself a snake plant today and enjoy its amazing benefits.