The Snake Plant is a popular houseplant for many reasons. Sansevieria trifasciata is hardy and easy to grow, even for beginner plant enthusiasts. The Snake Plant meaning is tied closely to the plant’s ability to purify air and its use in Feng Shui design as a plant that attracts positive energy.
History of the Snake Plant
The Snake Plant is native to tropical West Africa. There are 70 different species of Snake Plant, which was brought back in 1794 by naturalist Carl Peter Thunberg and named after Italian Prince Raimondo di Sangro. The plant is also known as Mother-In-Law’s tongue due to its long, pointed leaf shape.
The leaves of the Snake Plant contain strong fibers within the foliage that are used to create multiple items in Africa. Bowstrings, slingshots, baskets, and ropes are made from these sturdy fibers.
The Snake Plant also has medicinal properties. The essence of the plant has been used to treat cuts and burns. The plant also has anti-inflammatory properties.
Modern Snake Plant Uses
In the 1070s, the Snake Plant was one of several plants included in NASA’s list of houseplants capable of improving indoor air quality. The plant is credited with removing formaldehyde, benzene and ammonia.
The Snake Plant is also a popular plant used in the art of Feng Shui. The plant is said to attract money, prosperity and good energy. To achieve the balance at the heart of Feng Shui, it is recommended to avoid placing the Snake Plant in the living room because there are already several wood elements in that room. The bathroom is also not recommended, but because the high humidity negatively affects the plant.
Instead, it is recommended to place the plant in the foyer of a home or office, or near the entryway. Here the plant can stand guard and protect the space from bad energy, as well as attract wealth. The best location for the plant is in either the South or East corner of your home, if possible.
Snake Plant Meaning
The meaning of snake plants is primarily attracting luck and positive energy. The plant also represents peace, tranquility, and calmness. Those who are spiritual like to use the plant as a shield to protect them and their home, negative energy, people, and the effects of trauma.
Another Snake Plant meaning is tied to the plant’s color and ability to create oxygen during the night. The vibrant, green of the foliage symbolizes freshness, clean environment, and balance.
Whether you add this hardy plant to your home for its purifying properties or its aesthetics, the Snake Plant makes a wise houseplant choice. The snake plant meaning of bring you good luck may or may not be real but this plant will bring you years of enjoyment.
Snake Plant Meaning FAQ
Yes, when digested in large quantities, the plant is considered toxic to pets.
The average lifespan of the Snake Plant is between five to 10 years, though the plant can live up to 25 years if cared for properly.
The Snake Plant prefers full sun exposure, though they will live with some shade.
Yes, the plant grows best when it is rootbound but don’t allow the roots to grow excessively in a small pot or the pot may break.
Depending on the variety, the plant may grow only one foot tall, or up to 12 feet in height.