PlantaeHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN NEInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Not Evaluated — not yet assessed against the IUCN Red List criteria.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Dracaena trifasciata
Snake Plant
(Prain) Mabb., 2017
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
Vertical-growing succulent plant with stiff, fleshy leaves ending in a point. They feature a pattern of dark and light green transverse bands, sometimes with yellow edges in cultivated varieties.
Added by
Anonymous Curator
Reviewed by
Under Review
Last modified by
Julia Trouin
Other Names (Global)Regional and multilingual names used for this species across different countries and languages.
SansevieriaEspada de San Jorge
Mother-in-law's tongueViper's bowstring hempTaxonomyBiological classification ranks placing this species within the tree of life, from Kingdom down to Genus.
PhylumRank below Kingdom. Groups organisms sharing a fundamental body plan (e.g., Chordata = vertebrates and some invertebrates).Tracheophyta
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Liliopsida
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Asparagales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Asparagaceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Dracaena
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.(Prain) Mabb., 2017
Record Completeness
93%Coming soon
Ecology & StatusHow this species lives: habitat preferences, diet, behavior, population status, and role in its ecosystem.
OriginWhether the species is native (evolved here), endemic (found only here), or introduced by human activity.
Introduced
Population TrendDirection of change in population size over time: increasing, stable, decreasing, or unknown.
Stable
Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.
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Growth HabitPhysical form and structure of the plant: tree, shrub, herb, vine, epiphyte, aquatic, etc.
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Leaf TypeLeaf characteristics: deciduous (seasonal shed), evergreen, simple, compound, needle-like, etc.
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Flowering SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.
Dry Season
Recent SightingsWhether this species has been observed in the wild in Costa Rica within recent years.
Yes
Habitat SummaryOverview of the specific ecosystems and environments where this species is found in Costa Rica. Multi-lang
Native to tropical West Africa. It is extremely adaptable and can grow in a wide range of conditions, from full sun to deep shade, and in poor soils.Light & Water NeedsSunlight intensity and moisture levels this plant needs to grow and reproduce successfully. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!BehaviourDaily activity patterns, movement, territory use, foraging style, and seasonal behavioral changes. Multi-lang
Slow-growing but very persistent plant. It is known for its CAM metabolism, opening its stomata at night to reduce water loss.Toxicity / UsesToxic compounds present and their documented effects on humans or other organisms. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!Physical Measures
Length (cm)
40.0 - 120.0 cm
Reproductive StructuresFlowers, fruits, and seeds — the reproductive organs and their seasonal appearance.
Flower Photos (Max 2)
No imageFruit Photos (Max 2)
No imageEvolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang
Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM) that allows CO2 fixation at night.
Extremely strong leaf fibers providing structural rigidity and protection.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Root rot due to overwatering or lack of soil drainage.
Extremely cold temperatures or frosts, which irreversibly damage fleshy tissues.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
It was part of a NASA study that demonstrated its ability to absorb toxins like benzene and formaldehyde from the air.
Unlike most plants, it releases oxygen at night, making it ideal for bedrooms.