Sansevieria ‘Fernwood Mikado’, commonly known as the Snake Plant, is a striking and easy-care houseplant with slender, cylindrical leaves that grow upright in an architectural, fan-like display. Its deep green foliage is patterned with subtle lighter markings, making it a great choice for adding height and structure without taking up too much space.
Scientific Name
Dracaena ‘Fernwood Mikado’
This plant is still widely known and sold under its former classification, Sansevieria ‘Fernwood Mikado’.
Common Name(s)
Snake Plant, Fernwood Mikado Snake Plant
Origin
A cultivated variety with parentage originating from tropical Africa.
Light
Prefers bright, indirect light but is very adaptable and will tolerate lower light conditions. It can also handle some gentle direct sunlight. Growth will generally be faster in brighter conditions.
Water
Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Water thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain away. Reduce watering significantly during autumn and winter. Overwatering is one of the easiest ways to damage a Snake Plant.
Humidity
Average household humidity is ideal. It does not require additional humidity and is well suited to drier indoor environments.
Soil
Use a well-draining soil mix. Cactus and succulent compost works well, or add plenty of perlite or grit to a standard houseplant mix. Always use a pot with adequate drainage.
Food
Feed every 6–8 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced houseplant or cactus and succulent fertiliser diluted to half strength. Little to no feeding is required during winter.
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 15–27°C. Protect from cold draughts and avoid prolonged temperatures below 10°C.
Pet-safe
No. Snake Plants are toxic if ingested and should be kept out of reach of pets and children.
Sprouts Top Tips
Less is more when it comes to watering! Let the soil dry thoroughly before watering again, particularly during winter. ‘Fernwood Mikado’ stores water in its thick leaves and is much more tolerant of being too dry than too wet.
Extras
Its narrow, upright growth makes ‘Fernwood Mikado’ particularly useful for smaller spaces, shelves and desks. It is slow-growing and requires very little maintenance once established.
Did You Know?
Snake Plants were previously classified within the genus Sansevieria, but are now botanically included within Dracaena. We continue to use Sansevieria in our product names as this is still the name most commonly recognised and used in the houseplant trade.
