Sansevieria ‘Moonshine’ – Plant Description

Sansevieria ‘Moonshine’, also known as Silver Snake Plant or Moonshine Snake Plant, is a stunning cultivar of the classic Sansevieria trifasciata. Originally native to West Africa, this species has become a modern favourite for interior design thanks to its sculptural leaves and extraordinary resilience.

What makes ‘Moonshine’ distinctive is its pale, silvery-green foliage. Each broad, sword-shaped leaf rises upright in a rosette formation, with an almost metallic sheen that gives the plant its celestial name. New leaves emerge with a particularly bright silver tone, which may darken slightly to a soft grey-green as they mature. The smooth texture and minimal markings create a clean, contemporary look, making it a perfect plant for modern interiors.

Compact and architectural, ‘Moonshine’ usually grows 60–90 cm tall, though in large pots it may exceed this. Its vertical habit and muted tones allow it to pair beautifully with bold decorative pots, while its durability makes it suitable for both homes and offices.

Sansevieria ‘Moonshine’ – Care Guide

Light

Very adaptable. Prefers bright, indirect light to maintain its silvery tones, but tolerates medium and even low-light conditions. Avoid harsh, direct sunlight which can bleach the pale leaves.

Watering

Water sparingly. Allow the soil to dry out fully between waterings. In spring and summer, this may mean watering every 2–3 weeks; in winter, reduce to once a month or less. Overwatering is the most common issue and can quickly lead to root rot.

Temperature and Humidity

• Temperature: Best in 16–26°C. Avoid prolonged exposure below 10°C.

• Humidity: Naturally adapted to dry conditions. Tolerates low humidity well and thrives in centrally heated rooms.

Soil and Potting

Use a gritty, free-draining cactus or succulent compost. Repot every 2–3 years in spring, only moving to a slightly larger pot. Heavy pots are recommended to balance tall leaves.

Feeding

Feed monthly in spring and summer with a diluted cactus or succulent fertiliser. Do not feed during autumn and winter.

Pruning and Maintenance

Remove damaged or yellowing leaves at the base with a clean cut. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and enhance their silvery sheen.

Growth and Maturity

A slow to moderate grower, forming clumps of upright rosettes. Mature plants may occasionally produce fragrant, greenish-white flower spikes, though this is rare indoors.

Common Issues

• Yellow, mushy leaves: Typically caused by overwatering.

• Leaf tip browning: Often due to very low humidity or cold draughts.

• Pests: Rare, but spider mites or mealybugs may occasionally appear.

Background and Benefits

Sansevieria has long been prized not only for its toughness but also for its symbolism of resilience and protection in various cultures. NASA’s Clean Air Study confirmed its ability to filter toxins such as benzene and formaldehyde, making it both ornamental and beneficial. The unique silver tones of ‘Moonshine’ make it especially sought after by collectors and interior designers.

✅ Quick Care Summary

• Light: Bright, indirect preferred; tolerates low light

• Water: Let soil dry completely; very sparing in winter

• Temperature: 16–26°C; protect from cold below 10°C

• Humidity: Tolerates dry air

• Soil: Gritty, free-draining succulent mix

• Feed: Monthly in spring/summer

• Growth: Upright clump, 60–90 cm; pale silver-green foliage