Yes, snake plants (Sansevieria trifasciata) are tolerant of low light conditions and can thrive in a variety of lighting conditions, including low light. They are often referred to as “mother-in-laws tongue” because of their long, pointed leaves and are known for their ability to tolerate neglect.
However, while snake plants can survive in low light, they will generally grow best in bright, indirect light. They can also tolerate some direct sunlight, but it is essential to avoid exposing them to strong, direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can cause the leaves to turn yellow or brown.
If you are growing your snake plant in a low-light location, allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering, as snake plants are prone to root rot if they are kept too moist. Also, be aware that snake plants grown in low light may grow more slowly and produce fewer offsets (baby plants) than those grown in brighter light.
Snake plants, also known as mother-in-law’s tongue or Sansevieria, are extremely popular houseplants. Their sword-like leaves add a dramatic architectural element, and their ability to thrive in low light makes them perfect for beginners. But are snake plants truly low light plants? What type of lighting do they really need to grow their best?
How Much Light Do Snake Plants Need?
Snake plants are native to tropical regions of Africa and Asia Outdoors, they often grow in bright, direct sunlight However, indoors they can adapt to a wide range of light conditions.
Bright Indirect Light is Best
While snake plants can tolerate low light, they grow best with bright, indirect light. Bright indirect light means illumination that is bright but filtered, where direct sun rays don’t shine directly on the leaves. East or west facing windows are ideal, providing bright morning or afternoon light.
Snake plants can also do well in south facing windows, as long as sheers or blinds filter the direct sunlight. Ideally, place snake plants 3-4 feet away from south or west facing windows
Some Direct Sun is Okay
Snake plants can tolerate some direct sunlight, as long as they are not exposed to it for more than 5-6 hours per day. However, too much direct sun will scorch the leaves, causing yellowing, browning, and crispy spots.
Low Light Survival
Although snake plants grow best in bright, indirect light, they can survive in low light conditions. In fact, their ability to tolerate low light is better than most houseplants.
In low light, snake plants will grow very slowly. Their leaves may become thinner and taller as the plant stretches to reach more light. Variegated varieties may lose their bright coloration, turning solid green. But with proper care, snake plants can survive for years in low light environments.
Signs Your Snake Plant Needs More Light
It’s important to monitor your snake plant and watch for cues that it needs more illumination. Here are signs to look out for:
- Slow growth
- Leggy, thin leaves
- Leaves drooping or bending over
- Loss of color variegation
- Overwatering – soil stays wet for a long time
If you notice any of these symptoms, try moving your snake plant to a brighter spot for a few weeks and see if it perks up.
Best Low Light Snake Plant Varieties
While all snake plant varieties grow best in bright, indirect light, some tolerate low light better than others. Stick to these varieties if your snake plant will live in low light conditions:
-
Zeylanica – Also called Ceylon Bowstring Hemp, Zeylanica features dark green leaves with light green stripes. The simple patterns still show up even in low light.
-
Black Gold – Most of the foliage is a deep green, so it maintains good color in low light. Yellow edges provide a pop of brightness.
-
Starfish – The unique cylindrical, stubby leaves of this dwarf snake plant retain their interesting shape in low light.
-
Samurai – Also known as Sansevieria ehrenbergii, this variety has canoe-shaped leaves. It may lose its blue-green tint in low light but keeps its jagged silhouette.
Using Artificial Light for Snake Plants
In rooms with no natural sunlight, like basements or bathrooms, you may need to provide artificial light for your snake plant. The best options are:
-
Fluorescent or LED lights – These emit full spectrum light that supports healthy foliage growth. Keep plants 1-2 feet from the bulbs.
-
Grow lights – Full spectrum LED grow lights provide all the light a plant needs to thrive without sun. Use them 12-16 hours per day.
-
Rotate plants – If you have multiple snake plants, rotate them between bright and dim rooms so each gets some time in good light.
With the right type and amount of light, whether natural or artificial, your snake plant can grow beautifully even in a low light spot. Pay attention to your plant’s needs, and adjust its environment if you notice any signs of insufficient light. With a bit of care, snake plants can thrive in nearly any indoor space.
Summary of Snake Plant Light Needs
- Snake plants grow best with 8-10 hours of bright, indirect sunlight per day
- Some direct sun is okay (less than 6 hours) but can burn leaves if excessive
- Snake plants can survive in low light but have slower growth and poorer color
- Watch for signs like drooping leaves, slow growth, or overly wet soil
- Try low light varieties like Zeylanica, Black Gold, Starfish and Samurai
- Use grow lights or rotate plants to ensure some bright light access
Popular House Plants, Seamless Service
From lucky Braided Money Trees to resilient Snake Plants and the ever-popular Fiddle Leaf Fig, expect to find all your favorite plant varieties and more. We make plant delivery simple. Each plant is processed swiftly and securely shipped in custom-engineered insulated packaging to your address. Looking for the perfect gift? Theres no finer gift than one that grows, so go ahead and send someone something special with our exceptional plant gift delivery service. Local plant delivery available in Southern California. Shop Now
Exceptional Indoor Plants You care about the details, and so do we. That’s why there’s so much that goes into the making of each and every Léon & George plant set:
- California-grown plants that have been carefully inspected for quality, beauty and size
- Trimmed, cleaned, styled and treated with our own all all-natural soap, plant food and insecticides
- Fitted to meticulously curated decorative planters, potted for optimal airflow and drainage, and finished with decorative forest moss
Sending a gift? Léon & George is the gold standard for
The Best Snake Plant Varieties for Low Light Conditions
FAQ
Can snake plants live in very low light?
Let there be light! In general, snake plants handle extremely low-light conditions very well. So snake plants are often the welcoming committee in a windowless office building atrium where the plant may have little or no natural light. In fact, fluorescent light may be the only light they ever receive.
Can I put a snake plant in a room with no windows?
Snake plants are also great for purifying the air, making them a good choice for a windowless room where fresh-air is otherwise limited.Jan 17, 2024
Can a snake plant survive in a dark room?
However, while snake plants can survive in low light, they will generally grow best in bright, indirect light. They can also tolerate some direct sunlight, but it is essential to avoid exposing them to strong, direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can cause the leaves to turn yellow or brown.
What is the best indoor plant for low light?
- Hypoestes Hypoestes (1 products)
- Moss Moss (1 products)
- Palm Palm (1 products)
- Peace Lily Peace Lily (1 products)
- Peperomia Peperomia (2 products)
- Philodendron Philodendron (3 products)
- Snake Plant Snake Plant (4 products)
- ZZ Plant ZZ Plant (1 products)