Can snake plants survive in low-light conditions?
Written by
Michael Sullivan
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Snake plants thrive in low light situations better than most houseplants, but still need some indirect exposure to sunlight in order to grow properly. Snake plants can tolerate dark areas for months at a time, but will eventually decline without sufficient light. I have tried placing snake plants in every spot in my house during the last couple of years. A north-facing window provided the best trace of light, while a dark tornado hallway exhibited a slow decline.
Low-Light Tolerance
- Survives 6-12 months in dim areas like north-facing rooms
- Growth slows significantly with reduced leaf production
- Variegation fades without causing immediate plant death
Ideal Light Conditions
- 4-6 hours daily filtered light near east/north windows
- Bright indirect light maintains vibrant leaf patterns
- Rotate plants monthly for even exposure distribution
Warning Signs
- Floppy leaves indicate insufficient light exposure
- Brown tips signal sunburn from direct southern exposure
- Stretched growth shows plant reaching toward light
Avoid light deprivation problems in dark spaces. Use reflective surfaces (e.g., mirrors) to bounce available light. Rotate plants once a week to ensure all sides receive equal exposure to sunlight. Use LED grow lights during the winter. My hallway plants do well under a couple of simple 12-watt bulbs. These adjustments help the plant thrive in areas where natural light is absent.
To help plants recover from inadequate light conditions, gradually move them to brighter locations over a period of two weeks. Prune away the damaged foliage to redirect the plants' energy. Water only enough to prevent the plant from completely drying out, until it produces new growth. My rescued plants were back on track in a matter of months. Monitoring the plants consistently to prevent these low-light situations is the best cure.
Enhance your immediate environment with optimal placements. Apartments with limited windows require thoughtful placement of closets. Tall stands help elevate plants to get them closer to sources of light. Pair your plants with low-light companions, such as ZZ plants. I maximize every window in my home. Your snake plants will thrive and reward you with resilience.
Read the full article: 10 Benefits of Snake Plant Revealed
