Source: Wikimedia Commons
Snake Plant 'Moonshine'
BeginnerDracaena trifasciata 'Moonshine'
A snake plant whose sword-shaped leaves are silvery white to silver-grey all over. The banding is faint, and a narrow dark green edge outlines each leaf.
About
Sansevieria 'Moonshine' is a cultivar of Dracaena trifasciata (formerly Sansevieria trifasciata), a perennial in the asparagus family (Asparagaceae) native to central Africa; Sansevieria has been merged into Dracaena in recent classifications. NC State Extension describes 'Moonshine' as having silvery-grey foliage with light green blotches and narrow dark green margins. Where the species and 'Laurentii' have dark green leaves with cross-banding and (in 'Laurentii') yellow edges, 'Moonshine' is silvery all over with a dark green rather than yellow margin. Similar silver cultivars include 'Silver Queen' (silver-green with light green cross-bands) and 'Metallica', which differ in how visible the banding is. No record of its breeder or introduction was found. Care is the same as for the species: very drought tolerant, with root rot from overwatering the main risk. It tolerates shade, but leaves tend to turn greener after long periods in dim light. In Japan it is a widely sold silver-leaved snake plant available in ordinary garden centres and online.
Basic Info
Origin
Cultivar (species native to central Africa)
Lifespan
Perennial
Size
Little data on the size of this cultivar
Temperature
15〜30℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Watering & Fertilizer
Very little feed in the growing season
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Around 2-6 hours of sun a day is ideal. It is very shade tolerant, but the silver colour tends to fade after long periods in dim light.
Watering
From spring to autumn, water once the mix has dried. In winter, water only every one to two months. Overwatering causes root rot.
Temperature & Overwintering
It copes with dry air and cool temperatures of around 10°C, but is damaged by cold. In winter keep it indoors in bright light and on the dry side.
Soil & Repotting
A free-draining mix is essential. Divide crowded plants when repotting.
Propagation
Division is the reliable method, producing offsets with the same colouring as the parent.
Pests & Cautions
Watch for mealybugs and spider mites. It contains saponins; dogs and cats that eat it may suffer nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. Keep it away from pets.
Snake Plant 'Moonshine' FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Snake Plant 'Moonshine'?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QHow should I water and fertilize Snake Plant 'Moonshine'?
Snake Plant 'Moonshine': watering & fertilizer — Very little feed in the growing season. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Snake Plant 'Moonshine'?
The price of Snake Plant 'Moonshine' varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices. Not a designated invasive alien species in Japan, nor a nationally rare species under the Act on Conservation of Endangered Species. No application or registration under the name 'Moonshine' was found in Japan's plant variety registration database.
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing check) / Ministry of the Environment: List of Invasive Alien Species / MAFF Plant Variety Registration Database
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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