Why Is Snake Plant Blooming

Well, it has long been accepted that snake plants flower due to mild stress. For example, if the plant is root-bound in its pot, lacking sunlight exposure, or being neglected for a while, the snake plant would bloom and set seeds to secure its survival. The wonder of nature, isn’t it? 

However, as more and more indoor growers witness the amazing bloom, it turns out that quite a few snake plants are well cared for. They are not neglected, whether on purpose or unintentionally, nor suffering from any stressors. Surprisingly, they bloom indoors.  

How to Make My Snake Plant Bloom

Snake plant flower is not something you take for granted. To make snake plants flower on purpose, you have to spend some effort on balancing the stress and care. Below are some factors that might help you win the prize. 

1. Variety Matters

Not all snake plants can flower, it’s just not in their gene. If you are expecting a blooming scenery, pick the right variety. Popular pieces known for flowering more frequently include:

• Dracaena trifasciata
• Dracaena gracilis
• Dracaena longiflora
• Dracaena cylindrica
• Dracaena angolensis

Note: Historically, snake plants were classified under the Sansevieria genus, but recent botanical research and DNA analysis led to a reclassification to the Dracaena genus.

2. Age Counts

Snake plants are slow growers, and younger plants typically won’t flower. Forcing a young plant to bloom could do more harm than good, potentially stunting growth or even killing it. On the contrary, older snake plants tend to be pot-bound after years of development, and this slight stress is perfect for blooming. 

To improve your chances of seeing snake plant flowers, wait until the plant is at least 2 years old before attempting to coax it into bloom.

3. Root-Bound for Blooming

A snake plant that has outgrown its pot and become root-bound is more likely to bloom. When the roots get crowded in the pot, it can trigger mild stress to the plant, and blooming occurs. However, while a little root crowding is beneficial, you should repot the plant as soon as signs of distress appear, say, stunted or dying leaves.

4. Sufficient Sunlight

Adequate light is crucial for a snake plant to bloom. While it’s a low-light indoor succulent, it will rarely flower under those conditions. To force your plant to bloom, provide at least 6-8 hours of indirect sunlight or even a couple of hours of afternoon sunlight each day. Position it near a southeast-facing window where it can embrace the sunlight. If your home doesn't have enough natural light, consider using a grow light to supplement.

5. Minimal Watering 

Originating from West Africa, snake plants store water in their elongated leaves. Therefore, these semi-succulents are drought-tolerant and do not appreciate frequent watering. To create the ideal growing conditions for snake plants to bloom, let the soil dry out between waterings, and be very careful not to overwater your snake plants. 

6. Right Temperature

As a tropical plant, snake plants prefer moderate to warm temperatures. Keep your plant in a place that stays between 50°F to 85°F (10°C to 29°C). Don’t move it often, as this can cause sudden temperature fluctuations. Stability is key to promoting blooming.

What Do Snake Plant Flowers Look Like

Nothing says it better than images. From the feedback, or boast, of lucky snake plant owners, it all starts with tall, slender stalks that rise from the base of the plant. The flowering stalk can grow quite tall, sometimes up to 3 feet. Then come the flowers, growing in clusters along these side-stalks. 

snake plant flowers from the forum

Each flower is delicate and shaped like a small star, with narrow, curling petals that extend outward. The blossoms are typically creamy white or pale green in color, giving them a soft and graceful appearance against the plant’s bold, upright leaves. Along with the flowers is sweet, sticky nectar that drips from them. 

snake plant bloom from the forum

When in bloom, these flowers often release a sweet, vanilla, or honeysuckle-like fragrance, which is especially noticeable at night. However, growers are split on the aroma - some find it incredible, while others think it’s like sweat mixed with some awful, floral deodorant. 

How to Care for a Flowering Snake Plant

We understand, you may be completely lost when you see snake plant flowers for the first time. Should I cut the flower off my snake plant? Some growers really did that, though it’s not necessary.

If you’re not bothered by the flower stalk and enjoy its appearance, you can leave it. Snake plant flowers are relatively rare and can last for a while, especially if you want to see the full bloom cycle. In the meantime, provide your snake plant with the right care as usual.

However, you can remove it if the flower stalk is getting too sticky or the dropping nectar is causing a mess. If you want to further repot the plant, trim the spent flower spikes at the base and continue with regular care for the rest of the growing season. After that, it’s time to repot. 

FAQs about Snake Plant Flower

• Do snake plants flower?

Yes. Although it’s less frequent for indoor snake plants to flower, snake plants do flower under certain conditions - it just doesn’t happen to everyone. This usually occurs once a year in spring when they would flower in their natural habitat after dormancy.  Also, older snake plants are more likely to bloom. 

• How often and how long does a snake plant bloom?

Snake plants typically bloom once a year, usually during the spring, though this is not guaranteed. When your snake plants start to flower, it usually lasts about 2-3 weeks.

• Are snake plant flowers toxic?

Yes, both the snake plant and the flowers are mildly toxic to humans and pets, including cats and dogs. The plant's leaves contain saponins, which can be toxic if ingested in large amounts.

• Is it bad if a snake plant flowers?

Not really. In some cases, snake plants flower because thet are facing slight stress, say, older snake plants can get root-bound easily. But there are also carefully looked-after snake plants that flower naturally. 

• Is flowering a sign of health or stress?

It’s a little bit of both. While snake plant flowering may be triggered by stress, it usually means the plant is mature and otherwise healthy. There’s no need to worry - just enjoy the beauty of the bloom and continue your usual care routine.

• What is the benefit of the snake plant flower?

While the primary benefit of snake plant flowers is their beauty and fragrance, they also help the plant reproduce and ensure its survival. The flowers produce seeds, which can lead to new plants if conditions allow.