If you were to ask my opinion on what the most beautiful snake plant variety was, I would likely say the Moonshine Snake Plant. Sansevieria moonshine is incredibly unique, as the foliage is light green and silvery as opposed to deep forest green like many other snake plants.
Like other snake plants, this is an incredibly low-maintenance houseplant to have in your home. It does not require much attention, and it can quickly bounce back from a bit of neglect.
This plant does not frequently encounter pest problems, and it does not require high levels of humidity. What more could you ask for?
The Sansevieria trifasciata moonshine is also known as the “silver snake plant” or the “moonlight snake plant.” The silver-green leaves make it an excellent choice for adding a pop of beautiful, soft color to your home.
This is our ultimate guide for caring for your moonshine snake plant. I know I say many houseplants are my favorite, but this one truly is at the top of the list. It’s just so easy and unfussy!
The best soil for your moonshine snake plant
Being such an unfussy plant, you do not have to worry much about the soil for your moonshine snake plant. Any standard potting soil or succulent mix will do just fine.
I like to add a bit of extra drainage or a layer of fine rocks or chunky mix on top of my snake plants to prevent fungus gnats. A good well-draining soil is all you need to keep this plant happy.
Soil mix recipes for moonshine snake plant:
These are some basic soil recipes for your moonshine snake plant. These mixtures can be “eyeballed” and you do not need to measure them perfectly.
- 75% indoor potting soil with 25% perlite for extra drainage
- 60% indoor potting soil with 30% perlite or pumice and 10% worm castings for food
- 75% indoor potting soil with 25% succulent mix (chunky)
How often to fertilize your moonshine snake plant
When you purchase your moonshine snake plant online or in the nursery, it will likely be situated in a rich potting mix. This mix will carry it over for a few months, so fertilizing it is not necessary right away.
I fertilize my snake plants about once a month during the growing season. These plants do not need to be watered as frequently as some other plants, so you do not need to fertilize them frequently either. I use Dyna-Gro on all my houseplants, including the moonshine snake plant.
In the winter months, I fertilize once every other month. During the summer months with longer days and warmer temperatures, you’ll typically notice more new growth and the plants will crave a little bit of extra food.
How to water your moonshine snake plant
The key to properly watering your moonshine snake plant is to give it a good drink when it is thirsty, but not water it too frequently. I typically let the soil dry out completely before giving my snake plants a drink. If I am using a really chunky soil mix, the plant will need to be watered a bit more often.
If you notice the leaves becoming floppy, droopy, or soggy, it is likely because you are overwatering. It is more common to overwater your snake plant than underwater it. A standard terracotta pot can help prevent soggy soil.
These plants are considered succulents, so they actually hold water in their leaves. This is what makes it possible for them to survive on a bit of neglect.
The moonshine snake plant is tolerant of drought conditions, making them a great houseplant for beginners. When you do water, be sure you give it a good, thorough drinking, allowing excess water to drain freely.
Leaves of snake plant wrinkling
If you notice the leaves of your snake plant getting wrinkled, it is likely very thirsty. Similar to how our skin wrinkles when we are dehydrated, your snake plant will also wrinkle up when it needs some water. The wrinkles in the leaves will smooth out after a good drink or two, so be patient!
The best light for your moonshine snake plant
These plants are the best because they do well in a variety of different lighting conditions. However, I have found that my moonshine snake plants require a bit more light than my darker green varieties.
For this reason, an unobstructed East or West facing window works well for this plant. Bright, indirect light will ensure that is thrives with new growth.
If you notice your moonshine snake plant getting darker, it may not be receiving enough light. Move it to a brighter location with a higher amount of light for best results. The new leaves should come in with that beautiful minty color. Check this post for some great low-light houseplant options.
If you notice the leaves burning or scorching, it may be receiving too much light.
Moonshine snake plant care tips
- Give your moonshine snake plant bright, indirect sunlight for the best growth. Bright light will keep the leaves silvery and mint green.
- Use a terracotta pot to prevent waterlogged soil. Good drainage holes will help prevent excess water from building up.
- Use a damp cloth to wipe down the plants leaves once a month and prevent dust from building up. This helps the plants photosynthesize more efficiently.
- Only water your plant when the soil is completely dry. This will help prevent root rot which can happen if you give your plant too much water too often.
- The best time for fertilizing your snake plant is in the warmer, summer months when days are long.
- Even though the plant will survive in low-light conditions, it will not thrive in them. Adequate light is required for ideal plant growth.
Where to buy a moonshine snake plant
It can be difficult to find moonshine snake plants in the nursery. While I have seen them occasionally, your best bet would be to get one online. In my experience, these plants tolerate the shipping process pretty well.
- Etsy – I love buying plants on Etsy. There are many reputable sellers to choose from. I prefer to sort by distance so the plant is not in transit for a long time. Be sure to read reviews.
- Amazon – You may be hesitant to purchase a plant on Amazon, don’t be! You can often find some great prices for houseplants, and a lot of them are being shipped directly from nurseries.
- Planterina – This site has a ton of houseplants to choose from and they are always running huge sales. In order to get the coupon codes (which are usually for 50% off or more), sign up to her email list. I have never paid full price for a plant on Planterina. The plants are always healthy and happy when they arrive.
With proper care, sansevieria moonshine plants can thrive as an indoor plant. Always let the plant acclimate to it’s new environment after purchasing one and bringing it home. It’s a great choice for a low maintenance plant that will provide you with greenery for many years!