Sansevieria trifasciata ‘Moonshine’, also known as the Moonshine Snake Plant, is a beautifully modern and minimalistic succulent, renowned for its silvery-green foliage and striking, upright form. Native to tropical Africa and part of the Asparagaceae family, this cultivar is prized for its smooth, pale, almost metallic leaves that give off a soft, moonlit glow — hence its celestial name.

Each leaf is broad, slightly curved, and edged with a fine, darker green margin, forming an elegant fan-shaped rosette. The leaves start with a luminous silver tone when young and mature to a subtle sage-green as they age. Its clean, architectural silhouette makes ‘Moonshine’ perfect for contemporary interiors, complementing both minimal and tropical décor.

Tough, drought-tolerant, and air-purifying, this plant is ideal for beginners and busy plant lovers who want low-maintenance greenery with a unique, sculptural appeal.

Sansevieria ‘Moonshine’ – Care Guide

Light

Thrives in bright, indirect light. Its silvery colour is most vibrant in bright conditions, though it will tolerate moderate and even low light. Avoid harsh direct sunlight, which can dull or scorch the foliage.

Watering

Water sparingly. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is the most common cause of problems — the plant stores water in its leaves and rhizomes. In summer, water every 2–3 weeks; in winter, reduce to once a month or less.

Temperature and Humidity

• Temperature: Prefers 18–28°C. Protect from cold draughts and avoid temperatures below 10°C.

• Humidity: Perfectly suited to dry indoor air; no misting required.

Soil and Potting

Use a gritty, free-draining cactus or succulent compost. A terracotta pot with drainage holes is ideal to prevent water retention. Repot every 2–3 years in spring when the plant becomes root-bound.

Feeding

Feed once a month in spring and summer with a diluted cactus fertiliser. No feeding is required in autumn or winter.

Pruning and Maintenance

Remove any damaged or old leaves at the base. Wipe leaves occasionally with a damp cloth to maintain their soft sheen.

Growth and Maturity

A slow-growing species that typically reaches 40–70 cm tall indoors. Mature plants may occasionally produce tall flower spikes with clusters of small, fragrant, white-green blooms.

Common Issues

• Yellow or mushy leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.

• Wrinkled leaves: Extended underwatering — give a deep soak, then allow to dry out again.

• Faded colour: Insufficient light.

• Pests: Rare, but can occasionally attract mealybugs or spider mites.

Background and Benefits

The Sansevieria genus (now reclassified under Dracaena) is famous for its resilience and sculptural beauty. The ‘Moonshine’ cultivar stands out for its distinctive silvery tone and minimalist aesthetic, making it a favourite among designers and collectors. Like other Snake Plants, it also helps purify indoor air, filtering toxins and releasing oxygen even at night — perfect for bedrooms and offices.

✅ Quick Care Summary

• Light: Bright, indirect; tolerates low light

• Water: Sparingly; allow soil to dry fully

• Temperature: 18–28°C; avoid below 10°C

• Humidity: Dry air tolerant

• Soil: Gritty, free-draining cactus compost

• Feed: Monthly in spring/summer

• Growth: Upright rosette, 40–70 cm; silvery-green leaves with darker margins, elegant and architectural