Snake plants are a favorite pick among homeowners that like to add a splash of color to their interior space. While looking like tropical forest plants, they are native to Western Africa and perform incredibly well indoors.
Plus, they are relatively low-maintenance and can adapt to most conditions. But do snake plants need sunlight? With not much space, you might be wondering if you can provide these plants with what they need to thrive. The good news is that their lighting needs are not as strict as with other plants. Keep reading to find out more about where you should locate a snake plant.
Characteristics
You can find about 70 varieties of snake plants, all displaying different colors and shapes. Regardless of which one you pick for your home, most species have similar care requirements.
The only tricky thing about them is mastering their watering schedule. These plants thrive in dry conditions, but they still need consistent watering for survival. If you tend to overwater your plants, you’ll need to be careful with this one. Still, you’ll also have to ensure you provide it with adequate lighting for it to thrive.
However, if you decide to get a snake plant for your living room, you may be happy to learn that these plants are among the best air purifiers. This characteristic makes them the perfect plant to add to your bedroom decor. Luckily, they can tolerate hot and cold temperatures alike and are resistant to most pests and diseases. But let’s have a look at this plant’s lighting requirements so that you can find the perfect location to place it.
Do Snake Plants Need Sunlight?
Obviously, like all plants, this species requires sunlight. However, it is not as fussy about how much it gets as other plants.
Indoors, the ideal spot is somewhere close to an east-facing window. Consider adding some sheer curtains to limit the intensity and reduce possible damage. Avoid placing it under direct sunlight outdoors, as it might cause sunburn. Despite the sturdiness of its leaves, the plant doesn’t tolerate much too much light for extended periods.
While most people think they can live in low-light conditions, snake plants require a certain amount of sunlight to be healthy. Little light might cause drooping leaves and tilting and to grow more slowly. Indeed, light is necessary for photosynthesis: without it, your plant won’t have the energies to bring new growth. The good news is that you can reverse symptoms of low light by moving your pot to a brighter environment.
In general, these plants will perform well in low-medium light conditions. Don’t expect them to thrive somewhere dark, but you can have them grow well without placing them to a window. If you can choose, place your snake plant close to a window. Alternatively, you can pick any point no further than 8 feet away from a light source.
Can Snake Plants Grow Outdoors?
While most people like to grow them indoors, snake plants can also thrive outside, provided that they receive what they need to survive. Because of their origins, these plants do best in hot and dry environments. But, as you should know by now, they don’t like direct sunlight.
Place your snake plant pot outdoors somewhere it can receive some shade. In warm regions, you can use snake plants as a hedge: they add verticality to your garden and a stunning splash of green. However, if you live in a rainy region, ensure your plant good protection from deep water. Prolonged rains can cause rotting and other issues.
Don’t forget to check your snake plant’s variety requirement to ensure you position it in the proper soil mixture and give it enough water.
Do Snake Plants Need Sunlight?: The Bottom Line
Plants need sunlight to survive. That is true for all species, as it provides the necessary elements for photosynthesis. But the amount of sun they should receive differs from plant to plant. Some require full days of direct sunlight to thrive, while others do best in shaded conditions.
Snake plants’ natural habitat is the desert of African countries. However, too much sunlight will damage it. Whether growing this plant outdoors or indoors, make sure you place it somewhere where it can get enough light without getting sunburn.