Tropical

Chlorophytum comosum

Also known as Spider Plant, it features arching leaves and produces small plantlets, ideal for hanging baskets.

Overview

Chlorophytum comosum is native to the coastal regions of South Africa.

This plant thrives in its warm habitat while forming dense, spreading foliage beneath the shelter of taller vegetation.

Plant Specifications
Botanical name	Chlorophytum comosum
Common name	Spider Plant, Airplane Plant, Ribbon Plant, Hen and Chickens
Family	Asparagaceae
Genus	Chlorophytum
Plant type	Herbaceous (perennial)
Foliage	Evergreen
Maturity	1 to 2 years
Lifespan	20+ years
Native area	South Africa
Toxicity	Not toxic

Plant resilience

Not flood
tolerant

Drought
tolerant

Growing season

Spring

Summer

Autumn

Winter

Easily propagates with proper care

Plant care

Chlorophytum comosum is one of the most forgiving houseplants, thriving even with minimal attention. Its resilience and quick growth make it a top choice for both beginners and seasoned plant owners.

Chlorophytum comosum

Light

Prefers bright indirect light, but it can adapt to lower light conditions. Avoid direct sunlight for extended periods, as it can cause leaf burn.

Soil

Thrives in a well-draining mix, such as orchid bark, perlite, peat, or coco coir, mimicking its natural environment and preventing compaction. To avoid root rot, the soil should remain moist but not soggy.

Water

Water when the top of the soil is dry. Water thoroughly to ensure moisture reaches the roots but avoid standing water, as overwatering can cause yellowing leaves and root rot.

Humidity

Thrives in moderate to high humidity, ideally around 40%-60% or higher. If the air is too dry, consider using a humidifier to keep the humidity high.

Temperature

Best kept in a warm environment, ideally between 18-27°C (65-80°F). Avoid exposure to cold drafts or temperatures below 10°C (50°F), as cold stress can damage the leaves.

Pruning

Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to trim discolored or dried leaf tips. Cut spent flower stalks to conserve energy and encourage new leaf growth.

Fertilizer

Feed it with a balanced fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during spring and summer. Reduce feeding in autumn and pause it entirely during the winter, when the plant enters dormancy.

Propagation

Can be propagated through offshoots (plantlets). Once they reach at least one-third the size of the parent, they can be separated and grown independently.

Common pests

Watch for pests like spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Signs include webbing, sticky residue, or discolored spots, which can be treated with neem oil or insecticidal soap, covering both sides of the leaves.

Troubleshoot

Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering or poor drainage, while brown edges often signal low humidity or fluoride in tap water. Drooping leaves may suggest thirsty roots, overwatering, or pests.

Close-up of its striped foliage

More information

Chlorophytum comosum has charmed plant enthusiasts for generations with its lively green and white leaves. It’s also known for producing small white flowers and plantlets that spill gracefully from its long stems.

Why is it called "Spider Plant"?

The nickname "Spider Plant" comes from the small offshoots, or plantlets, that dangle from the mother plant like spiders on a web. These tiny plantlets eventually grow roots and can be potted on their own, which is one reason the plant became a symbol of renewal and connection.

Chlorophytum comosum in the wild

Did it go to space?

In 1980, Chlorophytum comosum became part of an experiment aboard a space mission designed to study how plants respond to microgravity. Scientists selected it for its durability and ability to tolerate variable conditions, qualities that made it ideal for the confined and controlled environment of a spacecraft.

The plant not only survived but kept growing, showing that root development and leaf expansion could happen even without gravity.

Close-up of a small plantlet

Delicate white flowers in bloom

"Hen and Chickens"?

Another common nickname, "Hen and Chickens", refers to the same growth habit. The mother plant represents the "hen", while the small plantlets hanging from its stems resemble "chickens" gathered around it.

This name speaks to the plant’s nurturing quality and its ability for effortlessly propagate and produce new life.

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Chlorophytum comosum

Overview