Spider plant - Chlorophytum comosum (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Spider plant

Also known as: Airplane plant, St. Bernard's lily, Spider ivy

The spider plant is a green perennial plant with long, thin leaves that earn it another name, "ribbon plant." It has spread far from its native Africa because it is easy to care for. Since spider plants grow well in partial or full shade, they have become popular houseplants.

Scientific classification

Species

Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

15 cm to 60 cm

Plant Height

30 cm to 60 cm

Spread

White, Green, Variegated

Leaf Color

1.6 cm to 2 cm

Flower Size

Green

Fruit Color

White

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Spider plant

Distribution of Spider plant

Distribution Map

Spider plant is native to eastern Africa, naturally occurring in woodland river valleys. It has been dispersed worldwide as a popular houseplant, and has become established in a handful of new areas, including Bangladesh, Western Australia, Ecuador, and Korea.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Undergrowth of forested river valleys, mountainous regions, thickets, steep embankments, flat terrain, cliffs

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Environmental Protection Value

It can purify air and absorb formaldehyde.

Garden Use

Spider plant is an evergreen herbaceous perennial commonly found in tropical gardens. It is prized for its year-round arching, drooping bi-color foliage. Its bushy shape makes it suitable for beds, borders, or edging footpaths. Spider plant is good for Mediterranean or drought-tolerant gardens. Suggested companion plants include Angel’s Trumpet or Bird of Paradise to make a color contrast.

Symbolism

Caring, connections with others

Interesting Facts

Spider plant, is one of the most common and well-known of all houseplants. It gets its common name from the small plantlets produced on long trailing stems that vaguely resemble spiders.

Name Story

Spider plant: Its leaves grow from the center of the plant spreading to the surrounding areas, like long-legged spiders. It is often raised hanging in the air like spiders climbing on spider webs, which is why it is called spider plant.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Spider plant, including the following common varieties :

Spider plant 'White Lightning'Spider plant 'Atlantic'Chlorophytum Comosum ‘Ocean’Curly spider plant Spider plant 'Vittatum'Variegated Spider Plant Spider plant 'Lemon'

Quickly Identify Spider plant

Slender, arching foliage with central white stripe, up to 16 inches (40 cm) long.

Long, thin stolons producing small plantlets and flowers, can extend 2-3 feet (60-90 cm).

Small, white star-shaped flowers with six spreading tepals, blooms without scent.

Diminutive greenish to brown capsules, fleshy to papery texture enclosing small seeds.

Short, compressed stem supporting dense arching foliage, thin green stolons up to 2 feet (60 cm).

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Care Guide for Spider plant

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Adapted to tropical understories, spider plant thrives in high humidity and consistently moist soil. It requires weekly watering and benefits from occasional misting to enhance growth. Avoid waterlogging and prolonged dryness for optimal resilience and lush foliage.

Fertilize: For spider plant, use high nitrogen fertilizers for healthy growth. Apply a balanced water-soluble fertilizer (20-20-20 NPK) every 4-6 weeks in spring and summer, reducing to 6-8 weeks in fall and winter. Dilute to 1/4 or 1/2 strength, watering soil first to prevent root burn.

Pruning: Spider plant features arching, green-and-white striped leaves, ideal for homes. Prune in early to late spring to stimulate growth, remove dead leaves, and enhance air circulation. Use clean, sharp tools for light maintenance to promote fullness and reduce pest problems.

Propagation: Spider plant is a resilient houseplant known for easy propagation through division. Simply separate the 'spiderettes' from the main stems and pot them in fresh soil. Focus on root health for robust growth, as this method ensures a high success rate for establishing new plants.

Repotting: Spider plant should be repotted every 2-3 years during early spring for optimal growth. Use a slightly larger pot with good drainage. After repotting, provide bright, indirect light and consistent moisture to aid recovery, as its rapid growth necessitates frequent repotting for health.

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