Last updated on November 14th, 2023 at 07:07 am
The snake plant, also known as mother-in-law’s tongue or Saint George’s sword, is a popular and hardy houseplant. However, some superstitions claim that snake plants bring bad luck. Is there any truth to these myths?
Read on to learn the origins of these superstitions, why they’re false, and how snake plants can bring good luck and prosperity according to feng shui principles.
Table of Contents
The Origins of Snake Plant Superstitions
Across different cultures, the snake plant became associated with bad luck due to the following factors:
- Resemblance to venomous snakes
- Sharp, blade-like leaves
- Tendency to thrive even when neglected
- Legends portraying them as immortal plants
These attributes led to unfounded beliefs that snake plants represent danger, death, and misfortune. However, modern horticultural knowledge helps dispel these irrational myths.
Why Snake Plants Don’t Bring Bad Luck
There is no scientific evidence correlating snake plants with negative occurrences. Here’s why the superstitions surrounding them are false:
No Connection to Harmful Snakes
- Snake plants have blades for leaves, but are not biologically related to snakes at all. They have no venom and are perfectly harmless.
Not Immortal or Associated with Death
- While resilient, snake plants are not immortal. Their lifespans are comparable to other houseplants.
- There is no data linking snake plants to increased mortality rates. This is complete superstition.
Don’t Sabotage Their Own Care
- Stories of snake plants sabotaging their care by thriving on neglect are false. They benefit from regular watering and care like other plants.
- Claims that they “bite back” when overwatered are more lore than fact. Overwatering harms them like other plants.
In summary, snake plant superstitions have no factual basis and can be safely dismissed as mere myths and lore.
Snake Plants and Feng Shui
According to the principles of feng shui, the placement of certain plants can influence luck and prosperity. So what does feng shui say about snake plants?
Benefits of Snake Plants in Feng Shui
Correct placement of snake plants can bring good chi and luck:
- Represent the wood element, symbolizing vitality and health.
- Upright spear-shaped leaves represent focus and determination.
- Hardiness represents overcoming life’s difficulties.
- Low light tolerance makes it suitable in many spots.
- Removes toxins like benzene and formaldehyde from indoor air.
Best Placement for Luck
- Near the front door as a guardian of the home
- In office spaces to symbolize focus and determination
- Near bedrooms or bathrooms to promote cleansing and healing energy
- In low-light areas that can’t support other plants
Snake plants are considered protective plants that fight negative energy according to feng shui practices.
Snake Plant Varieties and Symbolism
Different varieties of snake plants have their significance: Mother-in-Law’s Tongue
With sharp, upright leaves, this variety represents:
- A protective plant safeguarding the home
- The power to speak your mind freely and honestly
- Freedom from spite, jealousy, and unpleasantness
Twisted Sister
The twisted, distorted leaves symbolize:
- Ability to thrive despite adversity
- Embracing change and imperfections
- Remaining steadfast under pressure
Golden Hahnii
The bright yellow banding represents:
- Prosperity and wealth
- Warmth, optimism, and cheer
- Clarity of wisdom and intellect
There are over 70 snake plant varieties, each with distinct properties. Get to know their unique symbolic meanings.
Caring for Snake Plants
To harness the true power of snake plants, provide proper care:
- Place in bright, indirect light. Can tolerate low light.
- Use a well-draining potting mix. Allow soil to dry between waterings.
- Water less frequently in winter when growth is slower.
- Wipe leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust buildup.
- Divide overcrowded plants to stimulate new growth.
- Rotate the plant periodically for sunlight exposure.
When cared for correctly, snake plants can live for decades.
Conclusion
Far from being an unlucky plant, the hardy and protective snake plant can promote good fortune and positive energy.
By understanding the origins of superstitions surrounding snake plants, appreciating their symbolic meaning in feng shui, and giving them proper care, you can experience their benefits yourself.
With their resilient nature and air-purifying properties, snake plants are great additions to any home or office when their needs are met. Give them a try and debunk the myths!
Gardening is my passion and growing plants indoors has always been a stress relief for me. Grow a banana tree in my apartment once (although failed to produce bananas).
