12 Popular Snake Plant Types and How They Differ

If you’ve ever walked into an office lobby and spotted a tall, yellow-edged plant soaking up fluorescent light, you’ve already met one of the best-known snake plants (Dracaena trifasciata ‘Laurentii’). 

In NASA’s landmark Clean Air Study, this cultivar cleared up to 80 percent of formaldehyde from sealed chambers - an impressive bonus for a plant prized mainly for toughness. Yet “snake plant” isn’t a single look: dozens of cultivars range from silver rosettes no bigger than a teacup to paddle-shaped giants that command attention in a living room corner.

Below you’ll find a detailed, side-by-side look at twelve indoor favourites; how tall they grow, what their leaves reveal about care needs, and small quirks that help you match each one to the right spot.

Snake-Plant Varieties You Can Grow Indoors

Laurentii

Tall, sword-like leaves edged in buttery yellow make Laurentii the classic silhouette sold at most garden centres. It tolerates low light yet colours best near a bright window. Let the potting mix dry at least three days between waterings; soggy roots invite soft, grey patches that travel downward. Repot only when the roots distort the plastic container.

For a deeper understanding of how window placement affects leaf colour and growth, explore our guide to natural lighting for indoor plants.

Whitney

Whitney stays neatly compact, seldom topping 50 cm. Narrow leaves show fine pewter bands and darker mid-veins, perfect for shelves. Monthly rotation keeps the plant from leaning, and a snug pot encourages upright form.

Black Gold

Black Gold is a dramatic dark centre framed by bright margins suits neutral interiors. Morning sun sharpens colours, but harsh midday rays can bleach the edges. Trim any brown tips with clean scissors, following the leaf’s natural point.

To keep its bold look intact, pair proper light with timely pruning and the right potting method, both covered in this practical indoor care guide.

Zeylanica

Grey-green waves disguise dust, making Zeylanica a favourite for offices. Clumps divide readily, slice through the rhizome with a clean knife, and pot sections separately in spring.

Moonshine

Moonshine is silvery foliage that reflects ambient light and stays attractive in shaded rooms. New leaves emerge mint-green before ripening to pewter. In very low light stretches are likely, so water only once every four weeks to avoid rot.

For more details on keeping roots healthy in dim conditions, read our indoor plant watering guide.

Hahnii (Bird’s Nest)

A dwarf rosette no higher than a mug, ideal for desktops and bathroom shelves. Because the cup can trap water, pour carefully to avoid pooling. If the centre turns mushy, remove affected leaves and dust the cut with cinnamon.

To prevent root rot in small rosettes and improve soil structure for tight spaces, see our pores‑friendly cactus & succulent mix guide.

Twisted Sister

Leaves spiral around one another for a playful, loose twist. Growth slows if roots stay cramped; shift to a pot one size up when roots press hard against the sides.

For detailed guidelines on selecting the right pot size and promoting healthier root growth, check out our complete indoor plant care guide.

Golden Hahnii

At just 10–15 cm tall, Folcia Mini suits terrariums and gift arrangements. Blend 40 percent coarse sand or perlite into the mix to prevent compaction, and feed only once in early summer.

For full instructions on creating the ideal succulent soil, including texture, drainage, and mix ratios, see our succulent soil guide.

Cylindrica (African Spear)

Round leaves resemble spears and can be loosely braided while still pliable. Bright, filtered sun keeps spears stout. If you see leaning, increase light rather than tying the leaves.

Starfish

A sport of Cylindrica, this cultivar sends short spears from a central point, forming a star. Repot only when roots escape drainage holes; mild root binding helps widen the fan.

Whale Fin

A single paddle-shaped leaf can span 25 cm across. Use a wide, shallow terracotta bowl for balance, and water even less than other varieties; monthly in winter is often enough.

For seasonal adjustments and tips to keep your plants healthy during colder months, explore our winter houseplant care guide.

Banana

Gently arched leaves soften sharp furniture lines. Pale new growth darkens over six weeks; if it stays yellowish, move the pot slightly closer to daylight.

Quick Care Snapshot

Choosing the Right Variety

Pets in the house? All snake plants contain bitter saponins that can upset cats or dogs. Keep dwarf types like ‘Hahnii’ on high shelves, or use a glass cloche.

Low-light corner? ‘Moonshine’ and ‘Whitney’ hold their colour with less than two hours of daylight.

Looking for a statement piece? A single ‘Whale Fin’ paddle or braided ‘Cylindrica’ brings sculptural impact without stealing floor space.

Closing Thought

Whether you favour a silvery ‘Moonshine’ or a towering ‘Laurentii’, choose a pot with free-draining soil, water sparingly, and enjoy foliage that stays handsome through heat, low light and the odd missed watering. Browse our collection to find the variety that completes your room today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are different types of snake plants?

Indoors, you’ll most often see a dozen or so cultivars, from classic ‘Laurentii’ to dwarf ‘Hahnii’, each covered above.

Do snake plants really clean the air?

Yes, but slowly. NASA recorded an 80 percent formaldehyde drop in sealed chambers; real homes see modest gains, so combine plants with good ventilation.

What is the best snake plant for indoors?

‘Laurentii’ for reliability; ‘Moonshine’ for low-light rooms; ‘Hahnii’ for tight spaces.

Difference between snake plant and mother-in-law tongue?

They’re the same species. The nickname “mother-in-law tongue” traditionally refers to taller sword-leaf forms.