Whether it is your first time getting a snake plant, or you have already transformed your home into a snake plant sanctuary, it is always interesting to learn the meaning and symbolism of these eye-catching plants. You might even be surprised to discover that more than their physical beauty, snake plants are also rich in terms of historical uses and modern symbolism alike.
What does a snake plant symbolize, though?
Snake plants are considered symbols of positivity, purity, and good luck. Despite their somewhat evil-looking spiky leaves, snake plants are believed to guard against and ward off bad luck and evil spirits. These plants are also prized for their unique ability to clean the air and strong fibers.
What Do the Flowers and Colors of Snake Plants Symbolize?
While snake plants rarely bloom indoors, the flowers of these plants symbolize prosperity and good luck. More good things are waiting ahead for you if you have a flowering snake plant.
The green color of snake plants represents a connection with the natural world. You can add some snake plants inside your home if you are looking for an easy and simple way to bring a touch of the outdoors inside.
What is the Role of Snake Plants in Feng Shui?
The snake plant is a bit tricky as far as feng shui is concerned. Even if these plants have a spiky shape that indicates bad energy, the truth is that these plants are great for feng shui.
Instead of bringing bad energy into your house, snake plants can protect your home from many negative elements. It explains why many people usually view them as valuable lucky plants.
You might want to refer to the feng shui energy map or the Bagua Map to determine the best spot to put your snake plant. The map contains the eight different parts of your home and serves as your guide in furnishing the house.
The good news is that you can place your snake plants in many different rooms of your house. You can try to put one on your coffee table in the living room, put it in a corner in your office, or even add it in your bathroom. There are even people who believe that the upright pointed leaves of snake plants can counter a flushing toilet’s downward motion.
Just don’t forget to look after your snake plants properly. Plants that develop yellow leaves or diseases are considered harbingers of bad luck.
What are the Folklores and Myths Linked to Snake Plants?
Several countries in West African use snake plants in rituals meant to get rid of the evil eye. They also value these plants for offering protection against harm.
Although snake plants are not native to the Asian content, these plants have been grown there for many centuries. The Chinese in particular have high regard for these plants because of their ability to offer the eight valued virtues. This is why these plants are considered both valuable plants for homes and as excellent gifts.
Snake plants are valuable for Koreans as well. Potted snake plants are very popular gifts in the country every time someone moves to a new house or opens a new business.
Special History and Uses of Snake Plants Across the Globe
Since snake plants are native to different parts of Africa, they also have various uses in the continent. Some Africans use the strong fibers of the snake plant leaves to make bowstrings, commonly called bowstring hemp. The fibers of the plant were also used for making ropes, baskets, and slingshots. Research on the other potential uses of snake plant fiber continues to this day.
Others such as the Masaai have also used snake plants as a treatment for cuts, burns, and scrapes. Research revealed that some snake plant species contain certain anti-inflammatory compounds.
Snake plants are also used across the globe today for their ability to purify the air. Some people even claim that these plants can eliminate all toxins present in the air. However, while this is not completely true, the plants can help improve air quality.
The clean air study conducted by NASA revealed that snake plants can help get rid of small amounts of formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, and benzene from the air. Aside from this, snake plants can also release oxygen.
Snake Plants in Ancient Europe
Even though the snake plant has been growing and thriving for thousands of years in its native habitat, it was only during the latter part of the 16th century when it finally arrived in Europe.
Carl Pete Thunberg, a Swedish naturalist, brought the plant in 1794 in Italy. He named this plant genus Sansevieria taken after Prince Raimondo di Sangro of Southeast Italy’s San Serveo region.
From then on, the snake plant started spreading all over Europe little by little. Snake plants become famed houseplants, specifically in dim houses that are not conducive for other plants.
Snake Plants During Victorian Times
After people learned about the easy-to-care-for habit of the snake plant, they started to bring these plants into their households during the Victorian era. People especially loved the fact that snake plants can still thrive and grow even in the dark parts of their homes.
Snake Plants in Religion and Spirituality
Religious texts didn’t specifically mention snake plants. But some people seem to believe that the plants guard against bad luck and represent positive spirits.
Snake Plants in Entertainment and Arts
Snake plants have become popular houseplants that found their way to modern TV shows and movies. It is specifically true for movies set during the 70s and the 80s.
In the film Groundhog Day, Phil told Rita while dining at the Tip Top Café that he is a god. Snake plants are lining the backdrop of this popular scene.
Although snake plants weren’t extremely prevalent in the field of historical art, their fame as houseplants has turned them into a favorite focal point in some contemporary artwork.
Snake Plants and the Zodiac
Also known for its name mother-in-law’s tongue, the snake plant is an easy-to-care-for houseplant best known for its enduring nature. Snake plants in the astrological world are often linked to the star sign Capricorn. Since Capricorns are ambitious and hardworking people, no other plant suits them better than the notably hardy snake plant.
The Bottom Line
Now that you know what a snake plant symbolizes and its meaning, you can look forward to enjoying having these plants in your home even more. As protectors from harm and symbols of prosperity, snake plants are the best addition to any household.
