Spider plants (Chlorophytum comosum) and snake plants (Sansevieria trifasciata, now Dracaena trifasciata) are both widely favored houseplants, particularly among those new to plant care. They are often chosen for their relatively low maintenance requirements and adaptability to indoor environments. This comparison helps individuals select the plant that best suits their preferences and living conditions.
Appearance Differences
Spider plants are characterized by their narrow, arching leaves, which typically display variegated patterns of green and white stripes. These leaves cascade outward, making them well-suited for hanging baskets or elevated displays. A distinctive feature is their production of “spiderettes,” small plantlets that dangle from long stems, giving the plant its common name.
In contrast, snake plants feature stiff, upright, sword-like leaves that grow directly from the soil. These leaves can be wide and tall, often reaching several feet in height, with some varieties growing up to 10 feet. Their foliage frequently exhibits striking patterns, including shades of green, yellow, and sometimes silver, which contribute to their architectural and modern aesthetic.
Care Requirements
Light
Spider plants thrive in bright, indirect light. While they can tolerate lower light conditions, their growth may be less robust, and the vibrancy of their leaf variegation might diminish. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, leading to brown spots or browning tips.
Snake plants are remarkably adaptable and can tolerate a wide range of light conditions, from low light to bright, indirect sunlight. They generally prefer indirect light for best growth, but their ability to endure dim corners makes them suitable for various indoor placements, including offices and bedrooms.
Water
Spider plants prefer consistently moist soil but are susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Ensuring proper drainage is important. It is generally advised to water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch.
Snake plants are succulents, meaning they store water in their leaves and are highly drought-tolerant. They require infrequent watering, typically every two to three weeks, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is a common issue for snake plants and can lead to root rot.
Soil
Spider plants flourish in loose, loamy soil that provides good drainage. A well-draining potting mix is suitable for their needs, and they can tolerate a fairly neutral to slightly acidic or alkaline soil pH. Proper drainage helps prevent waterlogged conditions that can harm the plant’s root system.
Snake plants require well-draining soil to prevent water accumulation around their roots. A gritty soil mix containing components like perlite, peat moss, and coarse sand is ideal for promoting moisture balance. Heavy potting soils that retain too much water should be avoided.
Temperature and Humidity
Both spider and snake plants prefer warm environments, generally thriving between 60°F and 85°F. Neither tolerates temperatures below 50°F. Spider plants prefer some humidity, while snake plants tolerate low humidity well, aligning with typical indoor environments.
Fertilizer
During their active growing season, typically spring through fall, spider plants benefit from monthly feeding with a water-soluble, all-purpose fertilizer. Fertilization should be reduced or stopped during the cooler, dormant months.
Snake plants have modest fertilization needs and generally do not require frequent feeding. During the growing season, a balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied sparingly, perhaps once every few months. Over-fertilization can lead to salt buildup in the soil.
Growth Habits and Propagation
Spider plants exhibit a cascading growth habit, with their arching leaves and long stolons, or runners, from which small plantlets, known as “spiderettes” or “pups,” emerge. These spiderettes are a natural form of reproduction and can be easily propagated. A spiderette can be snipped from the mother plant and rooted in water or directly planted into moist soil, often forming roots within a few weeks.
Snake plants grow upright from rhizomes, which are underground stems that spread horizontally. This rhizomatous growth allows them to produce new shoots or “pups” around the base of the main plant. Propagation of snake plants can be achieved through leaf cuttings, where sections of a healthy leaf are rooted in soil or water. Division of the plant’s rhizomes is another effective method.
Benefits and Considerations
Both spider plants and snake plants contribute to indoor air quality. The 1989 NASA Clean Air Study identified various houseplants, including these two, as effective in removing certain airborne toxins. Spider plants are noted for their capacity to filter formaldehyde, benzene, xylene, and carbon monoxide from the air. Snake plants are highly effective at removing toxins such as formaldehyde, xylene, toluene, and nitrogen oxides. Snake plants also uniquely convert carbon dioxide into oxygen at night, making them suitable for bedrooms.
Regarding toxicity, spider plants are considered non-toxic to pets and humans, making them a suitable choice for households with animals or young children. Snake plants, however, are mildly toxic if ingested, which can cause symptoms like nausea or vomiting in pets. Therefore, place snake plants out of reach of pets.
Making Your Choice
When deciding between a spider plant and a snake plant, consider your specific living conditions and aesthetic preferences. If you desire a plant with arching foliage that produces readily propagatable “babies,” a spider plant might be an appealing choice. Its non-toxic nature also makes it a family-friendly option.
If you prefer a plant with a more upright, architectural form and require something that can tolerate a wider range of light conditions, including lower light, a snake plant could be more suitable. Its drought tolerance is beneficial for those who may not water frequently. The snake plant’s unique nocturnal oxygen production may be a factor for bedroom placement.