Log in

Chlorophytum

Common name: Spider plant · Spider ivy · Ribbon plant

Chlorophytum A genus of nearly 200 species of evergreen perennials, mostly from tropical and southern Africa, forming rosettes of arching, strap-like leaves. The spider plant became a household classic for its variegated foliage and its habit of producing dangling plantlets on long stems, which root readily to make new plants. It is famously undemanding, growing happily in moderate light with regular watering and tolerating a fair amount of neglect.

Fun facts

  • The baby plantlets, called "spiderettes," dangle from long stems like spiders on silk.
  • Plantlets root in soil or water, so one plant can produce dozens of new plants for free.
  • It stores water in thick, tuberous roots, helping it survive missed waterings.
  • Cats are attracted to spider plants, possibly because the leaves have a mild, harmless hallucinogenic effect on them.

Care summary

Sun Bright indirect to partial shade
Water Keep lightly moist; tolerates some drying
Soil General-purpose, well-draining potting mix
Hardiness
Mature height
Pet safe

Common problems

    • Water with rainwater or filtered water
    • Trim brown tips with clean scissors
    • Raise humidity around the plant
    • Let soil dry slightly between waterings
    • Repot into free-draining mix
    • Move to bright indirect light
    • Rotate the pot weekly for even growth