If you've been feeling the urge to add a little greenery to your home, but you're worried about keeping a plant alive, then we have the perfect recommendation for you: the snake plant. Also known as Sansevieria or "mother-in-law's tongue," this hardy succulent is quite possibly the most low-maintenance houseplant you'll ever come across.
What this really means is that even if you have a well-documented history of killing every plant you've ever owned, the snake plant is likely to survive and even thrive under your care. As Garden Design reports, snake plants are "one of the best houseplants for beginners" because they can "tolerate long periods of neglect without complaint."
The Benefits of Bringing Home a Snake Plant
Beyond their fuss-free nature, snake plants offer a number of other benefits that make them a great addition to any home. For starters, they're known to be excellent air purifiers, as NASA research has shown. The plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, helping to improve indoor air quality.
Snake plants also have a distinctive, architectural look that can elevate the aesthetic of any space. With their tall, spiky leaves that come in a variety of colors and patterns, they make a bold statement whether placed on a shelf, side table, or floor. And because they're so low-maintenance, you don't have to worry about them becoming an eyesore if you forget to water them for a few weeks.
How to Care for a Snake Plant
The great news about snake plants is that they really don't require much care at all. According to Penn State Extension, these plants thrive in well-drained soil and only need to be watered when the soil is completely dry, which can be as infrequently as once a month. They also do well in a range of lighting conditions, from bright indirect light to low light.
The bigger picture here is that snake plants are truly one of the most forgiving and easy-to-care-for houseplants out there. Whether you're a seasoned plant parent or a total novice, adding a snake plant to your home is a surefire way to bring a little bit of life and greenery into your space without the hassle.