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Variegated Whale Fin Snake Plant

Bright Indirect Light 2-5 in./yr Growth

The rare variegated whale fin is super easy to care for, and keeps your indoor air fresh and clean.

Variegated Whale Fin Snake Plant Information

Variegated Whale Fin Snake Plant
About The Variegated Whale Fin Snake Plant

Meet the Variegated Whale Fin Snake Plant (Sansevieria masoniana variegata)—also known as the Shark Fin Snake Plant, thanks to its dramatic, paddle-shaped leaves. This rare beauty flaunts bright yellow variegation that really pops in bright, indirect light (but tolerates low light just fine). Perfect if you want a statement plant that’s easy to love and even easier to care for.

This plant propagates by producing adorable little “pups” that emerge from the soil near the base of the mother plant. These pups can happily grow alongside the mother or be separated when they’re a bit more mature. You might notice your plant leaning as new pups form—totally normal! Let her do her thing, or gently adjust her when it’s time to repot or divide.

  • Each plant is unique; size and shape fluctuate by season so all measurements are shown as a range
  • Medium plant measures between 12-15 inches tall from bottom of the grow pot to the top of the foliage
  • Arrives in a nursery grow pot nestled in your planter choice
Sizing Guide
Small
Approximately 5" in diameter, fits plants in a 4" grow pot or smaller
Medium
Approximately 7" in diameter, fits plants in a 6" grow pot or smaller
Large
Approximately 10-12" in diameter, fits plants in a 10" grow pot or smaller
Massive
Approximately 12-14" in diameter, fits plants in a 12" grow pot or smaller
Watering Requirements
Water every 2-3 weeks, allowing soil to dry out between waterings. Expect to water more often in brighter light and less often in lower light.
Sunlight Requirements
Thrives in medium to bright indirect light which helps to retain variegation, but can tolerate low indirect light.
Humidity Requirements
Snake plants can tolerate normal room humidity, but can benefit from higher humidity conditions.
Pet-Friendly Plant?
No, this plant is not recommended in homes with pets.
Read our full care guide
Variegated Whale Fin Snake Plant
Frequently Asked Questions
How much light does a Variegated Whale Fin Snake Plant need?
To maintain its striking yellow and green patterns, the Variegated Whale Fin Snake Plant thrives best in bright, indirect light to some dappled sun. While it can tolerate low-light conditions, prolonged darkness will cause the vibrant variegation to fade into a solid, dull green.
How much light does a Variegated Whale Fin Snake Plant need?
To maintain its striking yellow and green patterns, the Variegated Whale Fin Snake Plant thrives best in bright, indirect light to some dappled sun. While it can tolerate low-light conditions, prolonged darkness will cause the vibrant variegation to fade into a solid, dull green.
How often should you water a Variegated Whale Fin Snake Plant?
Water only when the soil has dried out completely, which could take approximately 1-2 weeks or more depending on your home's environmental conditions. Always check the moisture of the soil to ensure it has dried out prior to watering.
How often should you water a Variegated Whale Fin Snake Plant?
Water only when the soil has dried out completely, which could take approximately 1-2 weeks or more depending on your home's environmental conditions. Always check the moisture of the soil to ensure it has dried out prior to watering.
Why is my Variegated Whale Fin Snake Plant losing its color or turning yellow?
If the leaves are turning a mushy, pale yellow, it is a classic sign of overwatering. However, if the variegated stripes are simply fading or reverting to solid green, the plant is likely not getting enough light to sustain its variegation.
Why is my Variegated Whale Fin Snake Plant losing its color or turning yellow?
If the leaves are turning a mushy, pale yellow, it is a classic sign of overwatering. However, if the variegated stripes are simply fading or reverting to solid green, the plant is likely not getting enough light to sustain its variegation.
Is the Variegated Whale Fin Snake Plant toxic to pets?
Yes, the Variegated Whale Fin Snake Plant is toxic to cats and dogs. It contains saponins, which can cause gastrointestinal upset, drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea if ingested. Keep this plant on a secure elevated surface out of reach of curious pets and children.
Is the Variegated Whale Fin Snake Plant toxic to pets?
Yes, the Variegated Whale Fin Snake Plant is toxic to cats and dogs. It contains saponins, which can cause gastrointestinal upset, drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea if ingested. Keep this plant on a secure elevated surface out of reach of curious pets and children.
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Our planters are made from the highest quality materials, and designed to complement a range of styles.
Porcelain Planters
Isabella planter
Isabella

Includes drainage hole and matching saucer

Ceramic Planters
Hyde planter
Hyde

Includes drainage hole & matching saucer

No Exterior Planter
Grow Pot
Grow Pot

Plastic container with drainage holes used by our greenhouse

Grant planter
Grant

No drainage hole; use as cache pot or add lava rocks

All of our plants ship in premium packaging for zero damage on arrival. Here’s what you can expect in your box on arrival:
Your Variegated Whale Fin Snake Plant
Fully rooted in a nursery pot with soil intact
Custom Protection System
Corner guards, soil stabilizer, and branch sleeves keep it secure
Pre-Watered & Ready
Each plant is watered 24 hours before it is shipped
Care Instructions Card
Survival guide for your first 30 days of growing is included

Additional Resources

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How To Care for a Snake Plant

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How to Pot Your Houseplant Step By Step

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Potting your plants from their grow pot into a new planter can feel daunting, but we have a few tips to make it a smooth and easy process. Proper potting...

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Understanding Lighting in Your Home and How It Affects Your Plants

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Why Choose The Sill?

Not all Variegated Whale Fin Snake Plants are created equal
Traditional Retailers
Greenhouse Grown Not warehouse-held.Acclimated before shipping.
Indoor Ready Pre-conditioned to lower light conditions.
Fully Potted Soil intact. No repotting stress.
Damage Guarantee Free replacement within 48 hours.