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Dracaena trifasciata

Dracaena trifasciata is a flowering plant in the asparagus family, Asparagaceae, native to tropical West Africa.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated September 11, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Dracaena trifasciata is a flowering plant in the asparagus family, Asparagaceae, native to tropical West Africa. It is widely known as the snake plant and is commonly grown worldwide as a houseplant for its toughness and low water needs. The species was formerly placed in the genus Sansevieria and is still widely referred to by that name.

Taxonomy and naming

Dracaena trifasciata is the accepted scientific name for the snake plant. It was long treated as Sansevieria trifasciata, and the older name remains widely used in horticulture.

Description

The species is a rhizomatous succulent with stiff, sword-like leaves, usually marked by green banding. Mature plants can produce clusters of pale flowers and small orange fruits.

Distribution and habitat

The plant is native to dry tropical parts of West and West Central Africa. It grows in rocky, seasonally dry habitats and is adapted to low-water conditions.

Cultivation and use

Dracaena trifasciata is one of the most common houseplants worldwide. It is valued for its tolerance of drought and low-maintenance growth, and is also used in interior landscaping.

Key facts

  • Dracaena trifasciata is a flowering plant in the family Asparagaceae.
  • Its native range includes tropical West Africa from Nigeria east to the Congo region.
  • It has thick, upright, sword-shaped leaves with a banded pattern.
  • It is widely cultivated as an indoor ornamental plant.
  • The species was formerly known as Sansevieria trifasciata.
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Canadian context

It is a very common indoor houseplant in Canada, especially because it tolerates low light and irregular watering.

Frequently asked questions

What is Dracaena trifasciata commonly called?
It is commonly called the snake plant, mother-in-law's tongue, Saint George's sword, and viper's bowstring hemp.
Where is Dracaena trifasciata native to?
It is native to tropical West and West Central Africa, including areas from Nigeria east to the Congo region.
Was Dracaena trifasciata formerly called Sansevieria trifasciata?
Yes. Sansevieria trifasciata is the former scientific name and is still widely used informally.
Is Dracaena trifasciata a houseplant?
Yes. It is widely cultivated around the world as an ornamental houseplant.
What family does Dracaena trifasciata belong to?
It belongs to the family Asparagaceae.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dracaena_trifasciata
    Supports: Scientific name, common names, family, native range, former name
  2. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew — https://www.kew.org/plants/snake-plant
    Supports: Native range, leaf description, flowering, cultivation as a houseplant
  3. Plants of the World Online, Kew — https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:77164235-1
    Supports: Accepted name, native range, growth form, uses
  4. International Plant Names Index — https://www.ipni.org/n/77164235-1
    Supports: Scientific name and author citation
  5. NC State University Plant Toolbox — https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/dracaena-trifasciata/
    Supports: Common name, family, native range, growth habit, leaf pattern