Spider Plant
Chlorophytum comosum
The Spider Plant is a resilient, easy-to-grow houseplant characterized by its arching, ribbon-like leaves and dangling plantlets that resemble small spiders. It is famous for its air-purifying abilities and its cheerful, fountain-like growth habit that makes it ideal for hanging baskets or shelf displays.
Light
Bright Indirect
Water
Moderate
Difficulty
Easy
Humidity
Moderate
Pet Friendly
While non-toxic to cats and dogs, the plant contains compounds that may be mildly hallucinogenic to felines, causing them to play with or eat the leaves excessively.
Care Guide
Spider Plant Care Guide.
Lighting: Place in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct midday sun as it can scorch the foliage.
Watering: Water thoroughly when the top 50% of the soil is dry. Use filtered water if possible to avoid brown tips caused by fluoride.
Propagation: Easily propagate by removing the plantlets (spiderettes) and placing them in water or moist soil.
Seasonal Care: During winter, reduce watering and ensure the plant is kept away from cold drafts.
In-Depth Care & Growth
Feeding & Soil
Fertilizer
Balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer
Soil
Well-draining, general-purpose potting mix
Physical Attributes
Mature Size
1-2 feet tall and wide
Growth Rate
Fast
Propagation
Plantlets, division
Common Varieties
Vittatum
The 'Vittatum' Spider Plant is characterized by its slender, arching leaves that feature a broad, creamy-white central stripe framed by deep green margins.
Variegatum
The 'Variegatum' variety features long, arching, ribbon-like leaves characterized by a solid green center framed by distinct creamy-white margins.
Bonnie
The 'Bonnie' spider plant is distinguished by its compact, spiraled leaves that feature a creamy-white central stripe bordered by vibrant green margins.
Spider Plant 'Vittatum
The Spider Plant 'Vittatum' is a classic and beloved houseplant recognized for its gracefully arching, ribbon-like foliage. This specific cultivar features a broad, creamy-white central stripe bordered by bright green margins. It is most famous for its long, yellowish stems that produce small white flowers followed by miniature clones of the parent plant, known as 'spiderettes', which dangle like ornaments from the mother plant.
Ocean Spider Plant
The 'Ocean' variety is a compact and exceptionally hardy cultivar of the classic Spider Plant. It is distinguished by its shorter, broader leaves compared to the standard species, featuring vibrant green centers edged with crisp, creamy-white margins. This plant is renowned for its air-purifying capabilities and its prolific growth of 'spiderettes'—tiny clones that cascade from arching stems, resembling a green and white fountain.