Snake Plant
Sansevieria trifasciata · Asparagaceae
How it looks
Snake plant is a succulent with thick, stiff, sword-shaped leaves that grow straight up from the base. The leaves are deep green with pale horizontal banding, and varieties with yellow edges are common. It grows 12–47 in (30–120 cm) tall and is also known as "mother-in-law's tongue."
Caution — saponins cause stomach upset
The leaves contain saponins, and chewing them can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Unless a large amount is eaten, cats usually recover on their own within 24 hours.
Guide for parents
Snake plant leaves are stiff and sharp-tipped, so most cats leave them alone. Curious kittens, though, may still give them a try. Those pointed tips can scratch the inside of the mouth on their own, so check the plant for bite damage from time to time. If vomiting or diarrhea lasts more than a day, talk to your vet.
If ingested
Contact your nearest vet immediately
- Onset
- 1–4 hours after ingestion
- Symptoms
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Action
- Offer plenty of water. See a vet if symptoms last more than 24 hours.
Details
- Scientific name
- Sansevieria trifasciata
- Common name
- Snake Plant
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Toxic parts
- All parts
- Compounds
- Saponins
- Onset
- 1–4 hours after ingestion
- Symptoms
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Action
- Offer plenty of water. See a vet if symptoms last more than 24 hours.
- Source
- ASPCA
Related plants
Same plant family· Asparagaceae
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