Dracaena Trifasciata vs Sansevieria – We Explain the Difference
As if botanical names for plants weren’t hard enough to remember (and pronounce). Now they want to change names for an entire genus, from Sansevieria to Dracaena!
TL;DR
- The genus name for snake plants has been reclassified from Sansevieria Trifasciata to Dracaena Trifasciata.
- The name change took effect in 2017/18 due to observed similar characteristics between the Dracaena genus and snake plants.
- There are mixed feelings toward the name change, with some gardeners refusing to adopt the new name.
If there is one thing that rings true in the evolution of the snake plant name, it is that change is inevitable.
For some gardeners, the change in genus classification for the humble snake plant from Sansevieria to Dracaena is a friction point. Some gardeners outright refuse to accept the change and continue referring to snake plants with their original designation, Sansevieria.
For others, it is simply a new tongue twister that they must learn to identify their houseplants correctly.
We explore the Dracaena Trifasciata vs. Sansevieria debate, the change, and the competing opinions in the plants and garden space.
So strap in, put your debating monocle on and let’s get into it.