Although not apparent initially, some subtle differences exist between the Sansevieria Zeylanica and Sansevieria Trifasciata.
Height is one difference that differentiates the two snake plants. Zeylanica (4 ft) generally grows slightly taller than the Trifasciata (3 ft).
The colors on the leaves are the other way to tell the two apart. It is subtle. However, the Zeylanica sports more white variegated patterns and edging. In contrast, the Trifasciata has a more yellow hue to the patterns