The Perfect Houseplant for Your Astrological Sign — Seattle’s Favorite Garden Store Since 1924 – Swansons Nursery

Sagittarius: Snake plant

Sansevieria trifasciata (Dracaena trifasciata)

Sagittarius, a fire sign represented by the Archer, governs those born between November 22 and December 20. A highly dynamic sign, Sagittarius is characterized as fearless, aspirational, and infinitely curious. Adventurous by nature, Sagittarius has the raw strength and optimism to overcome any challenge. The sharp forms and unparalleled durability of the snake plant match the powerful energy of Sagittarius.

Sansevieria trifasciata (renamed Dracaena trifasciata in 2017) features tall, stiff, reptilian leaves that are beautifully variegated in shades of green, black, yellow, and cream, depending on the cultivar. Native to tropical West Africa, the snake plant is exceptionally tough, which has led to its widespread use as an ornamental plant around the world. Its succulent leaves grow from fleshy tubers called rhizomes, which enable the plant to withstand long periods without water. While it prefers bright indirect light, the snake plant is also notable for its tolerance of extreme low light conditions–which is why it can be commonly spotted in large spaces with little natural light, such as offices and shopping malls.

Besides having spiritual significance in the Yoruba religion of West Africa, the tough, durable plant fibers of Sansevieria leaves have been gathered for centuries by humans for use as bowstrings. Indeed, one of the plant’s common names in its native range is “viper’s bowstring hemp” for this very reason. As Sagittarius is represented by the Archer, the snake plant’s connection to archery makes it the perfect plant for its astrological companion.