Are Snake Plants Succulents? Let’s Know Something New

Hi Emma, are you busy? 

– Ohh, hi! Not much. I am just inspecting my plants. But what’s the matter, David, you and this time? 

I know you stay at home at this time. That’s why I came to you to learn something. Actually, I want to grow snake plants in my home. But someone told me you need succulent soil for this plant. When I wanted to know the reason, he couldn’t say. As you also have snake plants and are experienced, I decided to learn the truth from you.  

As you come, let’s know more about this.

What Is Succulent Plant?

Do you know Devid what a succulent plant is? 

– To be honest, this term is new to me. Can you please explain? 

Sure, succulents are a captivating wide range of hardy plants known for their plump, juicy appearance and impressive drought tolerance. The word “succulent” itself comes from the Latin word “sucus.” 

It means juice or sap, hinting at their secret weapon for survival in dry environments. These superstars of the plant world store water in their thickened leaves, stems, or even roots. This allows them to weather long periods between drinks. They are perfect for cold temperatures. And since they are low-maintenance, people prefer them as indoor plants.

Imagine a cactus, the quintessential succulent, with its spiny green stem. That stem isn’t just for show. It’s a reservoir for precious water.  But succulents come in a much wider variety than just cacti. People often get confused about snake plants being cactus.

Echeverias, with their rosettes of colorful, fleshy leaves, are popular choices for their unique shapes and vibrant hues. Aloe vera, a succulent with well-known medicinal properties, has spear-shaped leaves filled with a soothing gel.  

These are just a few examples of the incredible diversity found within the succulent world. Despite their different shapes and sizes, succulents all share the same fundamental adaptation: the ability to store water during drought. 

This adaptation makes them perfect for hot, dry climates like deserts. But you can also translate well to low-maintenance houseplants.  

With proper care, which often involves infrequent watering and plenty of indirect sunlight, succulents can thrive indoors. But can’t tolerate direct sunlight. So, it can add a touch of sculptural beauty and botanical wonder to your home.

Are Snake Plants Succulents?

You are not alone, dear. Many people like you want to know, are snake plants considered succulents? The direct answer is yes. Your beloved snake plants are indeed succulents. How they similar? Let’s see:

• Water Storage: Succulents are known for their fleshy green leaves that store water. Snake plants possess thick, upright leaves, which are perfect for retaining moisture. This adaptation allows them to thrive in dry environments. Snake plants aren’t that hardy plants. So, snake plants need watering only every 1-2 weeks or when the soil dries out completely, similar to succulents.
• Native Habitat: Succulents typically originate from arid regions like deserts. Snake plants share this ancestry, being native to tropical Africa’s dry, rocky areas. This environment selects for plants that can conserve water, a trait characteristic of succulents.
• Classification: Snake plant classification has undergone revisions. They were previously placed in the Sansevieria genus, known for succulent plants. Though now under Dracaena, their succulent characteristics remain.

On the other hand, snake plants can also have the same health issues as succulents. For example, root rot happens when you overwater them. Yellow leaves with brown edges are the aftereffects of underwatering, etc. 

Similarities\Difference Between Snake Plant And Other Succulent Plants

Similarities	Differences
Both store water in their leaves, stems, or roots to survive in dry conditions.	Nest snake plant typically have upright, sword-shaped leaves, while other succulents come in a wider variety of shapes and sizes, from rosettes to spheres to branching cacti.
Both thrive in well-draining soil and require infrequent watering.	While most succulents prefer full sun, snake plants can tolerate lower light conditions not bright light.
Both are generally easy to care for and require minimal attention.	Snake plants tend to grow upright with new leaves emerging from the base, while other succulents can sprawl, climb, or clump depending on the variety.
Many succulents, including snake plants, can help improve indoor air quality.	Some succulents produce colorful flowers, while snake plants rarely flower indoors.
Both can be propagated easily through healthy leaf cuttings or division (depending on the variety).	Snake plants are generally more cold tolerant than many other succulents.
Both are relatively pest and disease resistant.	Snake plants are mildly toxic to humans and pets if ingested. Many other succulents are non-toxic.

Does A Snake Plant Need Succulent Soil?

Snake plants don’t necessarily need strictly succulent soil. But a succulent and cactus mix is an excellent choice for parent plant.

The key to a perfect plant is well-draining soil. These plants are native to dry environments and store water in their thick leaves and rhizomes. Regular potting mix can retain too much moisture, leading to root rot. 

Conversely, succulent soil is formulated with ingredients like perlite, pumice, or coarse sand. This can promote drainage and aeration. Additionally, this allows excess water to drain quickly. And it’s essential for preventing the roots from sitting in soggy conditions.

Listen, succulent mix provides excellent drainage. But snake plants can still benefit from a small amount of organic matter for some nutrients. A good compromise is to mix succulent and cactus mix with a bit of potting soil or compost. This provides the drainage they need and also offers some slow-release nutrients to support healthy growth.

Let’s see some additional benefits of using succulent soil for snake plants:

• Reduced watering frequency: Well-draining soil means you won’t need to water as often. This is ideal for this low-maintenance plant.
• Prevents root rot: The biggest threat to snake plants is overwatering. And succulent soil helps prevent this by allowing for proper drainage.
• Promotes healthy root growth: Good drainage and aeration encourage strong, healthy roots. It can efficiently absorb water and nutrients.
• Optimizes growth: Succulent soil can help your snake plant thrive and potentially grow faster by providing the right growing conditions.

So, while snake plants might technically survive in regular potting mix. You can use a succulent and cactus mix with a touch of organic matter. These offer several advantages and help ensure your plant lives a long and healthy life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

Conclusion

I hope today’s conversation will be helpful for you, David. Snake plants share many of the hallmarks of succulents. Although snake plants have some unique characteristics compared to other succulents, their overall needs and adaptations align closely with this classification. If you have more questions, feel free to reach out to Plantrick.