Spider Plant | Chlorophytum

Spider plants (Chlorophytum comosum) are evergreen perennials native to southern Africa. They produce rosettes of arching, grass-like leaves, typically with green and white variegation. Mature plants send out long runners bearing baby plantlets, which is how they got their common name.

They have been popular houseplants since the Victorian era and are valued for their easy care, air-purifying qualities, and pet-friendly nature. Our collection includes varieties like 'Bonnie', 'Vittatum', and the unusual 'Fire Flash'.

Yes, spider plants are one of the easiest houseplants to grow. They tolerate low light, irregular watering, and a wide range of temperatures. They will visibly wilt when very thirsty but recover quickly once watered. This makes them ideal for beginners and busy households.

Water when the top 2 to 3 cm of compost feels dry. Feed every two to four weeks during spring and summer. Brown leaf tips are common and usually harmless; they are typically caused by minerals in tap water rather than poor care.

Yes. Spider plants are non-toxic to cats and dogs, making them one of the safest houseplants for pet-friendly homes. They are listed as safe by the ASPCA.

Cats are often attracted to the dangling runners and baby plantlets. While chewing the leaves is not harmful, it can damage the plant. Hanging your spider plant or placing it on a high shelf keeps it out of reach of curious pets.

Spider plants are among the easiest houseplants to propagate. The baby plantlets that grow on runners can be snipped off once they have a few small roots visible. Place them in a glass of water or directly into moist compost.

Roots typically develop within one to two weeks in water. Once the roots are 3 to 5 cm long, pot the plantlet into well-draining compost. You can also leave the plantlet attached to the runner and pin it into a pot of compost next to the parent; once rooted, cut the runner.

Brown tips on spider plants are very common and usually caused by fluoride, chlorine, or mineral buildup from tap water. Spider plants are sensitive to these chemicals. Switching to filtered, distilled, or rainwater often resolves the issue.

Low humidity and inconsistent watering can also contribute. Trim brown tips with clean scissors for a neater look. The plant is otherwise healthy and the browning is cosmetic rather than a sign of serious problems.

Spider plants produce runners and baby plantlets when they are mature and slightly pot-bound. A plant that has been recently repotted into a much larger container will often focus on root growth rather than producing offsets.

Good light helps too. Plants in brighter indirect light tend to produce more runners than those in deep shade. Feed regularly during the growing season and be patient; most spider plants begin producing plantlets once they are a year or two old and have filled their pot with roots.