Snake plants (also known as Sansevieria or Dracaena trifasciata) have become the go-to indoor plant for busy homeowners and apartment dwellers alike. Their low-maintenance nature, air-purifying qualities, and striking appearance make them a top pick for anyone, from plant novices to interior designers. But when it comes to choosing the best type of snake plant, the options can feel overwhelming.
So, what type of snake plant is best?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top varieties, their unique characteristics, and how to pick the perfect one based on your needs, lifestyle, and space. Whether you’re after the most decorative option or the easiest to care for, this guide will help you make a smart, informed decision.
Why Choose a Snake Plant?
Before diving into specific types, it’s important to understand why snake plants are so popular:
- Extremely low maintenance
- Thrives in low light or bright light
- Requires minimal watering
- Air purifying, removes toxins like formaldehyde and benzene
- Ideal for bedrooms, offices, and small apartments
Now that we’ve covered the benefits, let’s explore the top snake plant varieties and which is best for your unique space.
1. Sansevieria Trifasciata ‘Laurentii’
Best for: Beginners & Traditional Décor Lovers
The Sansevieria ‘Laurentii’ is perhaps the most popular and widely available snake plant variety. It features long, sword-shaped leaves with dark green centers and golden-yellow edges.
Key Features:
- Height: Grows up to 3–4 feet tall
- Color: Dark green with bright yellow borders
- Care Level: Extremely low maintenance
- Light: Tolerates low to bright indirect light
Why It’s Great:
This variety is a classic for a reason. It’s reliable, striking, and extremely adaptable. If you’re just starting your plant journey or looking for something to match any room style, Laurentii is a safe and beautiful choice.
2. Sansevieria Cylindrica (African Spear Plant)
Best for: Modern & Minimalist Interiors
Also known as the African Spear Plant, this type has cylindrical, upright leaves that grow in fan-like formations. Its architectural shape fits perfectly into modern and Scandinavian-style homes.
Key Features:
- Height: Up to 5 feet in ideal conditions
- Shape: Cylindrical, spear-like leaves
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate shade
- Care Level: Very easy
Why It’s Great:
Cylindrica is ideal for people who want a unique look without the extra effort. It can also be braided for a dramatic effect. Bonus: it thrives even if you forget to water it for weeks!
3. Sansevieria Moonshine
Best for: Aesthetic Appeal & Bright Spaces
Moonshine is one of the most visually stunning varieties thanks to its silvery, pale green foliage. It instantly brightens any room and stands out against darker décor.
Key Features:
- Height: 1–2 feet
- Color: Light silver-green
- Light: Bright indirect sunlight is ideal
- Care Level: Low to moderate
Why It’s Great:
If you’re after a statement plant that still needs very little care, Moonshine is an elegant option. It’s perfect for shelves, side tables, or office desks.
4. Sansevieria ‘Black Coral’
Best for: High-Contrast Rooms & Indoor Plant Enthusiasts
With its deep green to black leaves accented by light green horizontal stripes, ‘Black Coral’ is a dramatic addition to any indoor plant collection.
Key Features:
- Height: Up to 3 feet
- Color: Very dark green (almost black)
- Light: Low-light tolerant
- Care Level: Easy
Why It’s Great:
‘Black Coral’ is ideal for those who want a darker, bolder plant that still behaves like a low-maintenance classic. It’s less common, which gives it a more exclusive feel.
5. Sansevieria ‘Whale Fin’ (Masoniana)
Best for: Collectors & Statement Plant Lovers
The Whale Fin is named for its massive, paddle-shaped leaves that resemble the fin of a whale. It’s slow-growing but can become the centerpiece of any room.
Key Features:
- Height: 2–3 feet, but leaves are very wide
- Color: Dark green with mottled patterns
- Light: Prefers bright indirect light
- Care Level: Moderate (needs well-drained soil)
Why It’s Great:
This plant is perfect for collectors or those who want something truly eye-catching. Its thick leaves store water well, so it still qualifies as low-maintenance.
6. Sansevieria Patens
Best for: Texture & Unique Leaf Arrangement
Patens stands out with its arched, tubular leaves that spread in all directions, giving it a more wild and textural look.
Key Features:
- Height: 1–2 feet
- Shape: Tubular, arching leaves
- Light: Bright indirect to medium light
- Care Level: Easy
Why It’s Great:
Sansevieria Patens offers both beauty and texture, making it ideal for coffee tables or plant shelves. It’s low-maintenance and quite hardy, even for those with a less-than-perfect plant track record.
7. Sansevieria ‘Golden Hahnii’ (Bird’s Nest Snake Plant)
Best for: Small Spaces & Desk Decor
If you’re working with limited space, the Golden Hahnii is a compact and stylish solution. Its short, wide, rosette-like leaves have golden margins, making it perfect for tabletops and desks.
Key Features:
- Height: 6–12 inches
- Shape: Rosette
- Color: Green with yellow edges
- Light: Prefers bright light, tolerates low light
- Care Level: Very easy
Why It’s Great:
This is one of the best varieties for small apartments, studio spaces, or office cubicles. It adds greenery without taking up much room.
How to Choose the Best Snake Plant for You
Here are a few tips to help you pick the right type of snake plant:
| Feature | Best Option |
| Low light tolerance | Laurentii, Black Coral |
| Statement piece | Whale Fin, Moonshine |
| Compact size | Golden Hahnii |
| Unique look | Cylindrica, Patens |
| High air purification | Laurentii, Black Coral |
| Modern interiors | Moonshine, Cylindrica |
Consider These Factors:
- Available space: Taller varieties need room to grow upright.
- Lighting conditions: Some thrive in bright light, while others are fine in shade.
- Maintenance level: All are low-maintenance, but some need better drainage or more light.
- Aesthetic preference: Think about colors, leaf shape, and size.
Final Verdict: So, What Type of Snake Plant is Best?
If we had to pick an overall best snake plant, the Sansevieria Laurentii remains the top choice for most people. It’s classic, easy to find, highly adaptable, and one of the best air purifiers.
However, your ideal choice will depend on your personal needs:
- For modern décor, go with Moonshine or Cylindrica.
- For small spaces, try Golden Hahnii.
- For a collector’s item, choose Whale Fin or Patens.
- For a bold and dramatic look, consider Black Coral.
Conclusion
Snake plants come in many shapes, sizes, and colors, but every variety shares the same core strengths: resilience, low maintenance, and beauty. Whether you’re just beginning your indoor plant journey or looking to expand your collection, there’s a perfect snake plant for you.
Use this guide to match the right type to your lifestyle and aesthetic, and you’ll enjoy the countless benefits of owning one of nature’s most durable and stylish houseplants.
