If you think all snake plants look the same, you’re in for a real surprise. The world of rare snake plant varieties – unusual and striking – is full of incredible shapes, colors, and patterns that defy the common image of this hardy houseplant. Moving beyond the classic Laurentii, these special cultivars can become the centerpiece of any plant collection, offering unique textures and forms that are sure to start conversations.
This guide will help you learn about some of the most sought-after types. We’ll cover how to identify them, where to find them, and the specific care they need to thrive. Let’s look at what makes these plants so special.
Rare Snake Plant Varieties – Unusual And Striking
What qualifies a snake plant as “rare”? Often, it’s a combination of limited commercial production, unique mutations, and high demand from collectors. These plants might grow slower, be harder to propagate, or simply be newer to the market. Their striking apperance is usually due to unusual leaf shapes, dramatic color contrasts, or growth habits that stand out.
Top Rare Varieties to Know
Here are some of the most distinctive rare snake plants you might encounter. Keep an eye out for these names.
- Sansevieria ‘Moonshine’: Known for its wide, silvery-green, almost metallic leaves. It has a very clean, modern look and the color can fade if it gets to much direct sun.
- Sansevieria ‘Cylindrica’ (Starfish or Boncel): This variety has fan-shaped arrangements of cylindrical, spear-like leaves. It looks more like a starfish or a burst of green rockets than a traditional snake plant.
- Sansevieria ‘Masoniana’ (Whale Fin or Shark Fin): A true showstopper. It typically grows just one or two enormous, paddle-shaped leaves that can be over a foot wide. Each leaf has unique mottled patterning.
- Sansevieria ‘Bantel’s Sensation’: This tall, elegant plant features narrow leaves with distinctive vertical white striping. It’s a slower grower, which adds to its rarity and value.
- Sansevieria ‘Golden Flame’: It boasts stunning yellow variegation that runs along the center of the leaf, sometimes fading to a creamy white. The contrast with the green edges is dramatic.
- Sansevieria ‘Cleopatra’: A real beauty with intricately patterned, dark green leaves bordered by a light brown, zig-zag edge. It’s delicate in appearance but still shares the family’s toughness.
Where to Find These Rare Plants
You won’t likely find these at your average big-box garden center. You’ll need to look in specialized places.
- Local Specialty Nurseries: Check with independent plant shops that focus on houseplants or rare succulents.
- Online Plant Retailers: Many websites specialize in rare and exotic plants. Always check seller reviews and their phytosanitary certification.
- Plant Swaps and Community Groups: Local gardening clubs or online forums (like Facebook groups) are great for trading cuttings or “pups” with other enthusiasts.
- Etsy and eBay: Individual sellers often offer rare varieties. Be sure to inspect photos closely and understand the size your buying—sometimes it’s just a starter plant.
Essential Care for Your Rare Finds
While snake plants are famously low-maintenance, rare varieties sometimes need a bit more attention to show off their best traits. The basics are similar, but the devil is in the details.
Light Requirements
Most rare snake plants prefer bright, indirect light. This helps maintain vibrant variegation and compact growth. Some, like the ‘Moonshine’, can lose their unique color in low light. However, avoid harsh, direct afternoon sun which can scorch the leaves, especially on variegated types.
Watering and Soil
This is the most common area for mistakes. Overwatering is the fastest way to lose a prized plant.
- Use a well-draining succulent or cactus mix. You can add extra perlite or pumice for drainage.
- Water only when the soil is completely dry all the way to the bottom of the pot. In winter, this might mean watering only once a month or less.
- Always water thouroughly until it runs out the drainage holes, then empty the saucer.
Potting and Propagation
Rare snake plants often like to be slightly root-bound. Don’t rush to repot them. When you do, only go up one pot size (1-2 inches wider in diameter).
Propagation can be tricky for variegated types. Leaf cuttings in water or soil may revert to a plain green form. The most reliable method is to divide the rhizome (the underground stem) and separate “pups” or offshoots from the mother plant. This ensures the new plant keeps its unique markings.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Even experianced gardeners face issues with these special plants. Here’s how to troubleshoot.
- Leaves Losing Variegation: This usually means not enough light. Gradually move the plant to a brighter location.
- Soft, Mushy Leaves at the Base: A classic sign of overwatering and root rot. You must act fast. Remove the plant from its pot, cut away any soft, brown roots, and repot in fresh, dry soil. Wait a week before watering.
- Brown, Crispy Leaf Tips: Could be from underwatering, but more often it’s from fluoride in tap water or a sudden drop in temperature. Use filtered or distilled water if possible, and keep plants away from drafty windows.
- Leaves Becoming Floppy or Stretched: The plant is reaching for more light. Provide brighter indirect light to maintain a sturdy, compact shape.
Displaying Your Collection
These plants are living art. Their presentation matters. Use simple, clean pots that complement the plant’s color—neutral tones like white, gray, or terracotta work well. Group several rare varieties together on a shelf to create a stunning textural display. A single large ‘Whale Fin’ in a minimalist pot makes a poweful statement on a pedestal or side table.
Building Your Collection Responsibly
The popularity of rare plants has led to some unethical practices. Always ask sellers about the source of their plants. Avoid vendors who cannot explain where their stock comes from, as some rare varieties may be poached from wild populations. Supporting reputable nurseries that use tissue culture or sustainable propagation is the best choice for the environment and the hobby.
FAQ
What is the most expensive rare snake plant?
The ‘Masoniana’ (Whale Fin) and ‘Bantel’s Sensation’ often command high prices, especially for large, mature specimens. Prices fluctuate with availability.
Are rare snake plants harder to care for?
They are generally as tough as common snake plants, but their specific needs for light and careful watering are a bit more critical to maintain their unique appearance.
Can I grow rare snake plants in low light?
They will survive, but they likely won’t thrive. Low light can cause leggy growth, loss of variegation, and dull coloring. Bright, indirect light is ideal.
Why did my variegated snake plant produce a plain green shoot?
This is a reversion. Sometimes the plant produces a growth that goes back to its non-variegated genetics. You can carefully remove this shoot at the soil line to encourage the plant to put energy into the variegated parts.
Where can I buy unusual snake plant varieties?
Start with online specialty retailers, local plant swaps, or dedicated houseplant nurseries. Always research the seller’s reputation first.
Collecting rare snake plant varieties is a rewarding journey into the diverse world of these architectural plants. With their striking forms and resilient nature, they offer a unique blend of beauty and ease. By understanding their specific needs and sourcing them ethically, you can enjoy these unusual gems for many years to come. Remember, patience is key—these slow growers are worth the wait.