The snake plant is one of the best plants among indoor air purifying plants. There are also several snake plant benefits. Despite several advantages, the snake plant has several disadvantages.
The main disadvantage of a snake plant is its toxicity to kids and pets such as cats or dogs.
Let us see what are the disadvantages of snake plants.
Disadvantages of snake plant
1. Toxic for pets and kids
Yes. You read it correctly. This plant is poisonous, especially to kids and pets. All its parts i.e. roots, leaves, rhizomes, flowers are toxic in nature. All these parts contain a chemical called Saponin.
Saponin is poisonous to humans and pets. It is found naturally in all snake plants.
So why saponin present in snake plants?
Chemical Saponin present in snake plants acts as a natural insecticide and fungicide. So it protects from insects and fungus. It is beneficial for the plant but on the other hand, it is harmful to humans and pets.
Snake plant is harmful if it is eaten or ingested by kids or pets such as cats and dogs. Though it is not harmful to adults.
This harmful substance can cause numbness in the tongue and throat. This causes gastrointestinal problems such as vomiting, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, etc.
2. Slow Growing Plant
Snake plants are slow-growing plants. Snake plant has several varieties that can grow up to 6 to 7 feet in height.
It takes years to grow to the highest level in height. So this plant measures your patience level. If you planning to see this plant growing into a dense cluster of snake plants in a year then this plant is not your choice.
3. Can’t tolerate Direct Sunlight
The snake plant light requirements is indirect bright sunlight. It can’t tolerate direct sunlight for a long time.
If it is placed under full or partial sun, the leaves of the plant start burning. It loves the shady place where it easily receives indirect bright light. It is best to plant indoors.
4. Mishandling of snake plant with water
The snake plant is very hardy and can tolerate little or no water. But if you don’t know how to water snake plants, the plant may damage.
Spraying or misting with water on the snake plant damage the plant. This is because water droplets stop on the joints of leaves. This can cause leaves to rot. If proper attention is not given, the whole plant may damage.
Overwatering can also damage the roots of the snake plant. Hence proper care should be given while watering. Water the plant only when the soil is completely dry.
5. Not Cold hardy
The cold or very less temperature can damage the snake plant’s leaves. It can leave permanent scars on the leaves.
The frost can also damage this plant if it comes in contact for a long time. The best way to save these plants in winter is to keep them indoors. Generally, the indoor temperature is favorable for these plants during winters.
This is how a snake plant can be saved from low temperature and frost.