Plants That Look Like Snake Plants

If you love the bold, architectural look of the snake plant but want to expand your indoor jungle, you’re in the right place. There are many plants that look like snake plants, offering that same striking foliage with a unique twist. This guide will help you find perfect alternatives to add vertical interest and modern style to your home.

These similar plants share traits like upright growth, sculptural leaves, and often, a remarkable tolerance for less-than-ideal conditions. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or just starting, you’ll find options that fit your space and care routine.

This list focuses on plants with a similar visual impact. They feature upright, sword-like leaves and a strong silhouette that can stand alone as a statement piece.

Dracaena ‘Janet Craig’ Compacta

This is a superstar for low-light areas. Its deep green, glossy leaves grow in a dense, upright rosette that strongly resembles a very full snake plant. The leaves are wider but maintain that straight, vertical habit.

Light: Low to bright, indirect light.
Water: Allow the top inch of soil to dry out.
Key Similarity: Extremely low-maintenance and tolerant of neglect.

Yucca Cane Plant

For a larger, more tree-like version of the snake plant aesthetic, consider Yucca. It has sharp, pointed leaves that erupt from thick, woody cane stems. It brings a dramatic, desert vibe to a corner.

Light: Prefers bright, direct light.
Water: Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry.
Key Similarity: Striking, architectural form and drought tolerance.

Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia nicolai)

The White Bird of Paradise has huge, paddle-shaped leaves that tear in the wind, giving them a rugged, textured look. While much larger, its bold, upright leaf clusters offer a similar dramatic effect on a grand scale.

Light: Needs bright, indirect light to direct sun.
Water: Keep soil consistently moist in growing season.
Key Similarity: Creates a strong focal point with its tall, striking foliage.

Dracaena Marginata (Madagascar Dragon Tree)

With its slender, grass-like leaves with red edges atop bare, slim stems, this plant offers a more minimalist and elegant silhouette. The leaf shape and growth pattern are reminicent of a snake plant on a trunk.

Light: Adapts to low light but prefers medium, indirect light.
Water: Let soil dry between waterings.
Key Similarity: Vertical lines and extremely forgiving nature.

ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

The ZZ Plant is often recommended alongside snake plants for good reason. Its glossy, oval leaflets are arranged on upright, arching stems. It provides that same modern, clean look with amazing resilience.

Light: Thrives in low light to bright, indirect light.
Water: Water only when the soil is bone dry—it stores water in its rhizomes.
Key Similarity: Nearly indestructible and perfect for beginners.

Bromeliad ‘Neoregelia’ Varieties

Some bromeliads, like the Neoregelia, form a central, vase-like rosette of stiff, strappy leaves that can be variegated or colorful. Their shape is very similar to a snake plant rosette, though they are often shorter and broader.

Light: Bright, indirect light for best color.
Water: Water into the central cup and keep soil lightly moist.
Key Similarity: Striking, structural leaf formation.

How to Choose the Right Alternative for You

Picking the perfect plant depends on your specific conditions and what you like most about snake plants. Follow these steps to decide.

1. Assess Your Light Conditions

Light is the most important factor. Observe the spot where you want the plant.

Low Light: Choose Dracaena ‘Janet Craig’ Compacta or ZZ Plant.
Bright, Indirect Light: Most options will do well here, like Yucca or Bird of Paradise.
Direct Sun: Yucca is your best bet for a sunny south-facing window.

2. Consider Your Watering Habits

Be honest with yourself. Do you sometimes forget to water?

For the Forgetful Waterer: ZZ Plant, Snake Plant, Yucca, and Dracaena Marginata are perfect.
If You Enjoy Regular Care: Bird of Paradise or Bromeliads might be a good fit.

3. Match the Size and Scale

Think about the space you’re filling. A small table needs a different plant than an empty floor corner.

Tabletop Size: Compact Dracaena, small ZZ Plant, or a young Bromeliad.
Floor Statement Piece: Mature Yucca, large Bird of Paradise, or a tall Dracaena Marginata.

Caring for Your Snake Plant Lookalikes

While each plant has its own needs, some general care principles apply to this whole group. They are generally tough and adaptable.

Potting and Soil

These plants despise soggy roots. A well-draining potting mix is non-negotiable. You can use a standard cactus or succulent mix, or amend regular potting soil with perlite or pumice. Always use a pot with a drainage hole—this one tip prevents so many problems.

The Watering Rule of Thumb

When in doubt, wait it out. It’s almost always better to underwater these plants than to overwater them. Stick your finger about two inches into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s safe to water. If it’s damp, wait a few more days.

Fertilizing for Growth

These aren’t heavy feeders. During the spring and summer growing season, you can feed them with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer once a month. Skip fertilizing completely in the fall and winter when growth slows down. Over-fertilizing can harm the roots.

Dealing with Common Pests

Keep an eye out for mealybugs and spider mites, especially in drier indoor air. Wiping the leaves down with a damp cloth every few weeks not only keeps them dust-free but also helps you spot pests early. If you see any, treat them promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

What plant is similar to a snake plant but shorter?

The Dracaena ‘Janet Craig’ Compacta or a small ZZ Plant are excellent choices for a shorter, bushier form. Some compact bromeliads also fit this description.

Are there any variegated plants like snake plants?

Yes! Dracaena Marginata ‘Tricolor’ has beautiful green, cream, and pink stripes. Some Yucca varieties have yellow or white striping on their leaves, and of course, there are many variegated Snake Plant cultivars themselves.

Which snake plant alternative is the easiest to care for?

The ZZ Plant is arguably just as easy, if not easier in some conditions, than the snake plant. It’s incredibly resilient and thrives on neglect, making it a top contender for the easiest care.

Can I put these plants in my bedroom like a snake plant?

Absolutely. Plants like the ZZ Plant, Dracaena ‘Janet Craig’, and Snake Plant are all great for bedrooms. They are known for their air-purifying qualities and release oxygen at night, which can contribute to better sleep.

Do any of these plants flower?

While grown primarily for foliage, many can flower in ideal conditions. Mature Snake Plants, ZZ Plants, and Bird of Paradise (famously) can produce blooms, though it’s less common indoors. The Bird of Paradise flower is particularly spectacular when it appears.

Adding plants with similar striking foliage to your snake plant is a wonderful way to build a cohesive yet interesting indoor garden. Each of these alternatives brings its own unique character while maintaining the clean, structural look you love. Start with one that matches your light and care style, and enjoy the added texture and life it brings to your home. With so many great options, you can easily find the perfect fit.