A great starter plant as it can tolerate a high level of neglect and a broad spectrum of light

Why will I love it? The Sansevieria trifasciata, AKA the snake plant, has a well-deserved reputation for being nearly indestructible. It can tolerate a high level of neglect and a broad spectrum of light, making it a great starter plant. Its common name alludes to its long, dark green variegated leaves that seem to slither upwards.

Light or shade? Bright light or shade.

Where should I put it? This plant is one of the few that release oxygen at night, making it particularly beneficial in a bedroom, though its leaves are mildly toxic if ingested.

How do I keep it alive? It thrives in bright direct light but can also tolerate moderate shade. It is also quite drought-resistant and can survive extreme temperatures, from 27C down to 5C. Like all succulents, it prefers free-draining compost that dries out between waterings. Water weekly in summer and reduce frequency in winter. It can go weeks without watering and still survive – it will look very dehydrated, but will bounce back with a good watering.

Did you know? A Nasa clean air study suggested that snake plants can purify the air by removing certain toxins, such as formaldehyde, xylene and toluene.