Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses

Spider plants are considered easy to care for, but can still be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. The soil should be allowed to partially, but not completely, dry out between waterings. If the leaves of the spider plant show browning tips, it is advisable to give them a thorough watering in a well-draining pot to flush out excess salts in the soil.

Fertilization

It is important not to overfertilize spider plants because too many chemicals in the soil will cause the tips of the leaves to brown. When fertilizing this species, use a commercial all-purpose fertilizer no more frequently than every two weeks during the growing season. Fertilize less often if the leaf tips begin to change color.

Pruning

Trim the diseased, withered leaves once a month.

Soil

Loam, Sand, Chalky, Clay, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline

Potting Suggestions

Needs excellent drainage in pots

Know the light your plants really get.

Find the best spots for them to optimize their health, simply using your phone.

Download the App

A Botanist in Your Pocket

Scan QR code to download

Spider plant

Water

Every week

Sunlight

Partial sun

Hardiness Zones

9 to 12

Planting Time

All year around

Download and print this plant care card and attach it to your plants

Download

Questions About Spider plant

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Spider plant?

When watering the Spider plant, you should aim to use filtered water that is at room temperature. Filtered water is better for this plant, as tap water can contain particles that are harmful to its health. The reason that the water should be at room temperature or slightly warmer is that the Spider plant comes from a warm environment, and cold water can be somewhat of a shock to its system. Also, you should avoid overhead watering for this plant, as it can cause foliage complications. Instead, simply apply your filtered room temperature water to the soil until the soil is entirely soaked. Soaking the soil can be very beneficial for this plant as it moistens the roots and helps them continue to spread through the soil and collect the nutrients they need.

What should I do if I water my Spider plant too much or too little?

Both overwatering and underwatering will be detrimental to the health of your Spider plant, but overwatering is a far more common issue. When this species receives too much water, its stems and leaves may begin to wilt and turn from green to yellow. Overwatering over a prolonged period may also lead to diseases such as root rot, mold, and mildew, all of which can kill your plant. Underwatering is far less common for the Spider plant, as this plant has decent drought tolerance. However, underwatering remains a possibility, and when it occurs, you can expect to find that the leaves of your Spider plant have become brittle and brown.

It is crucial that you notice the signs of overwatering as soon as possible when caring for your Spider plant. Some of the diseases that arise from overwatering, such as root rot, may not be correctable if you wait too long. If you see early signs of overwatering, you should reduce your watering schedule immediately. You may also want to assess the quality of soil in which your Spider plant grows. If you find that the soil drains very poorly, you should replace it immediately with a loose, well-draining potting mix. On the other hand, if you find signs that your Spider plant is receiving too little water, all you need to do is water more regularly until those signs have subsided.

How often should I water my Spider plant?

If your plant is in a pot. The most precise way to decide whether your Spider plant needs water is to plunge your finger into the soil. If you notice that the first two to three inches of soil have become dry, it is time to add some water.

If you grow your Spider plant outdoors in the ground, you can use a similar method to test the soil. Again, when you find that the first few inches of soil have dried out, it is time to add water. During the spring and early fall, this method will often lead you to water this plant about once every week. When extremely hot weather arrives, you may need to increase your watering frequency to about twice or more per week. With that said, mature, well-established the Spider plant can show an admirable ability to withstand drought.

How much water does my Spider plant need?

When it comes time to water your Spider plant, you should not be shy about how much water you give. With the first two to three inches of soil dry, this plant will appreciate a long and thorough watering. Supply enough water to soak the soil entirely. The amount of water you add should be enough to cause excess water to flow through the drainage holes at the bottom of your pot. If you don’t see excess water draining from the pot, you have likely underwatered your plant. But do not let the water accumulate inside the soil, which will be very dangerous to the plant as well. Alternatively, a lack of water draining through the pot could indicate poorly draining soils, which is detrimental to the health of this plant and should be avoided. If the plant is outside, 1 inch of rain per week will be sufficient.

How should I water my Spider plant at different growth stages?

The water needs of the Spider plant can change depending on growth stages as well. For example, when your Spider plant is in the first few years of its life, or if you have just transplanted it to a new growing location, you will need to give more water than usual. During both of those stages, your Spider plant will put a lot of energy towards sprouting new roots that will then support future growth. For those roots to perform their best, they need a bit more moisture than they would at a more mature phase. After a few seasons, your Spider plant will need much less water. Another growth stage in which this plant may need more water is during the bloom period. Flower development can make use of a significant amount of moisture, which is why you might need to give your Spider plant more water at this time.

How should I water my Spider plant through the seasons?

The Spider plant will have its highest water needs during the hottest months of the year. During the height of summer, you may need to give this plant water more than once per week, depending on how fast the soil dries out. The opposite is true during the winter. In winter, your plant will enter a dormant phase, in which it will need far less water than usual. In fact, you may not need to water this plant at all during the winter months. However, if you do water during winter, you should not do so more than about once per month. Watering too much at this time will make it more likely that your Spider plant will contract a disease.

What's the difference between watering my Spider plant indoors and outdoors?

It is most common to grow the Spider plant indoors for any gardener that does not live in temperate and tropical regions. Those gardeners should consider the fact that soil in a container can dry out a bit faster than ground soil. Also, the presence of drying elements such as air conditioning units can cause your Spider plant to need water on a more frequent basis as well. if you planted it outside. When that is the case, it’s likely you won’t need to water your Spider plant very much at all. If you receive rainfall on a regular basis, that may be enough to keep your plant alive. Alternatively, those who grow this plant inside will need to water it more often, as allowing rainwater to soak the soil will not be an option.

Is pruning necessary for my Spider plant?

It is helpful to lightly prune this plant periodically during the spring and summer. When performing this light pruning, you should search for leaves that have wilted, become discolored, show signs of disease, or have died completely. Remove dead or damaged leaves by cutting their petioles, or trimming off stems that have died. This will increase the light and ventilation of the plant and help it to grow. Some gardeners also choose to remove the flower buds of the Spider plant. However, removing flower buds before they open is a strictly aesthetic decision that will emphasize the beauty of this plant’s showy leaves.

When should I prune my Spider plant?

You can prune your Spider plant any time you notice dead, diseased, or damaged leaves during the growing season. Once you notice such a leave, locate an unwanted leaf, then follow its stem all the way to the bottom of petiole. Removing dead stems will increase the light and ventilation of the plant and help it to grow. you can cut its stem just above the soil’s surface to remove it. Such pruning can take place as needed during spring and summer. Also, this plant can bloom any time between spring and fall, and some gardeners choose to remove flower buds before they have a chance to open. Removing unopened flower buds allows this plant to focus most of its growing energy on its beautiful leaves. However, pruning in this manner does not necessarily influence the plant’s overall health.

How do I prune my Spider plant?

Pruning the Spider plant is as easy as waiting until you notice dead or damaged leaves on your plant. When you recognize these leaves, equip yourself with a pair of sharp and sterile hand pruning shears. Hand pruning shears will work best as larger tools like loppers will not be well suited to the precise cuts you need to make. Once you have a proper set of pruning tools, locate an unwanted leaf, then follow its stem all the way to the bottom of petiole. Removing dead stems will increase the light and ventilation of the plant and help it to grow. Cut the stem just above where it exits the soil to remove it entirely. If you wish to stop this plant from flowering, you can use the same pruning shears to remove any buds before they open. Finally, you may prefer to just trim off dead or damaged portions of the plant, including deadheading spent flowers, to keep it looking its best. This can be done at any time of year. Diseased or damaged stems should be cut right at the soil line and removed completely. Blooms should be cut off just below the flower head.

What should I do after pruning my Spider plant?

Since pruning for the Spider plant should take place periodically throughout the season, what you do after pruning can vary. For instance, if you prune to remove selected leaves and stems from your Spider plant, you won’t need to do anything except continue your regular maintenance routine. At times, you may choose to remove healthier leaves and include them in a display of cut flowers and foliage. However, there is no crucial maintenance task to perform for this plant after typical pruning. The only thing to note is that when watering after pruning, you need to be careful not to touch the wound to prevent fungus from infecting the plant through the fresh wound. Placing Spider plant in a well-ventilated location will also help the wounds to dry out and heal in time. The timely replenishment of Spider plant after pruning will help the Spider plant to recover as soon as possible.

Are there any important tips when pruning my Spider plant?

For your major pruning, use sharp pruning sheers that will make clean cuts to avoid damaging your plants. As you are pruning your Spider plant, step back occasionally to check the appearance of the plant to make sure it has the shape you want and that you are pruning it symmetrically. If the overall growth of the plant is weak, the flowers need to be pruned back in time for flowering to be able to save nutrients for leaf growth and allow the plant to grow more vigorously.

How many hours of sunlight does Spider plant need to grow?

Unlike plants that require full, indirect sunlight, tropical herbs that prefer full shade need very little direct sunlight to grow. These plants typically require only a few hours of indirect light each day to thrive. While you should still place your full shade tropical herb near a window, it's important to ensure that the plant is never exposed to too much sunlight. If you're growing your full shade tropical herb indoors, you can provide it with the necessary light by placing it near a north-facing window or by using a grow light. A fluorescent or LED grow light can help mimic the soft, dappled light that your plant would receive in its natural environment.

What will happen if Spider plant doesn’t get enough sunlight?

If your full shade tropical herb isn't getting enough sunlight, it may become leggy and weak. The leaves may also start to yellow and drop off, and the plant may stop growing. If you notice any of these signs, try moving your plant to a brighter location or providing it with additional light. Be careful not to expose the plant to direct afternoon sunlight, as this can cause sunburn.

What will happen if Spider plant gets too much sunlight?

Tropical herbs that prefer full shade can be extremely sensitive to direct sunlight. If your plant is exposed to too much light, the leaves may start to turn yellow or brown and may eventually drop off. Additionally, the plant may become stunted and stop growing. If you notice any signs of sunburn or overexposure to light, move your plant to a shadier location or provide it with additional shade. In conclusion, understanding the sunlight requirements of your tropical herbs is crucial to keeping them healthy and happy. Full shade tropical herbs require only a few hours of indirect light each day to thrive, and ensure that the plant is never exposed to too much sunlight. By providing your plant with the right amount of light and shade, you can help ensure that it grows strong and healthy.

What is the optimal temperature for Spider plant?

For this tropical plant to thrive, you’ll want to keep them between 75℉ and 90℉ (25-32℃). Each species can handle temperatures outside of this range, but keeping it within several degrees of these limits will ensure they grow to their maximum potential.

As for its extreme temperature limits, any environment below 50℉ (10℃) or above 95℉ (35℃) will begin to hinder its growth and cause various aberrations to its leaves and stems. This is especially true with low temperatures; even a light frost can cause your tropical plants to perish. Cellular death can begin to happen at a rapid pace, with some species dying in as little as 12 to 24 hours.

Does Spider plant require different temperatures for different growing phases?

While Spider plant doesn’t require any changes in temperature to enter different growing phases, it is important to stay consistent. Wild temperature fluctuations can slow down its growth regardless of its current phase, so it's always better to keep them in a controlled environment. That optimal temperature range of 75℉ and 90℉ (25-32℃) is vital to maintain, especially staying above the lower limit. Going above 90℉(32℃) isn’t ideal, but as tropical plant it won’t suffer too much. On the other hand, going below 50℉ (10℃) (and especially 40℉/5℃) will begin to directly damage this heat-loving plant species.

Does Spider plant need different temperatures for different seasons?

Spider plant does not need different temperatures for different growing seasons. The most important step in seasonal care is to keep the environment within the optimal temperature range. That's why it's always best to keep this plant indoors. That way, you can control the temperature no matter what the climate is like outside.

Light is also important for tropical species, with all of these plants preferring a partial side level of sun exposure. This means any light they receive needs to be dappled or filtered, with bright but indirect light being the best option when growing your plants indoors. Too much direct sunlight can negatively affect your plant’s leaves, reducing its growth potential.

What are the temperature guidelines to keep your Spider plant healthy?

Tip #1: Don’t Leave Your Plant Near Windows in Colder Months

If you want to make sure your plant isn’t exposed to colder temperatures, you may want to keep them away from windows. In colder months like late fall and winter, even the smallest draft can leak cold air into your home through cracks in your windows. While this air usually dissipates and warms up as it travels throughout your home, any plants placed in close proximity to the window will be affected. Move your tropical plants into an area where they will still get bright but indirect light, while making sure they won’t be affected by potential drafts.

Tip #2: If You Find Dry Patches, Your Plant May Be Getting Too Much Sunlight or Heat

You may notice the leaves become white or even scorched on a sunny day. These discolorations and unusual markings usually indicate that a plant is getting too much heat or sunlight, and it may be dehydrated. Excess light and heat will dry out the soil, stopping plants from getting the moisture they need to support their cellular structure. It also slows down or stops the process of photosynthesis, further hindering growth. If ignored for too long, these dry spots can spread and eventually result in the death of your plants.

Tip #3: Avoid Frost at All Costs

Colder temperatures and frost can damage your plants by causing ice crystals or disrupt normal physiological activity. This makes it nearly impossible for water to move freely throughout plant tissue, creating a deficit of moisture in their stems and leaves. You can tell a plant has been damaged by frost if it begins to suffer from hydrosis (it will appear as though it's soaked with water.) If the problem persists, your plants may begin shriveling and turning a dark brown or black hue. After that, the plant will almost certainly die.

What is the best way to maintain the right temperature for my Spider plant?

The best way to maintain the right temperature range for Spider plant is by keeping an eye on both the climate and humidity. You’ll want to try to keep each species in a room where you have access to climate control, keeping the heat in the temperature range best mimics its natural habitat. The humidity levels will also have a direct effect on temperature, so it's important to monitor these as well. You can artificially raise the humidity of your growing space by using a humidifier or lightly misting the leaves with water.

If you intend to grow this species outside, you may find it difficult to maintain the right balance of temperature and humidity. If temperatures begin to drop or the air becomes too dry, your best option is to find room within your home and move your plant inside. An indoor growing space will allow you to control the climate more closely, helping your plant reach its full potential.

Why do I need to fertilize my Spider plant?

All plants rely on soil nutrients to facilitate their growth, and the Spider plant is no exception. However, it is not always a guarantee that the soil in which your plants grow will have all of the nutrients required. Fertilization and soil amendments help ensure that the plants in your garden not only have the basic nutrients they need but also that they get the nutrients that are specifically necessary to them.

Spider plant needs fertilizer to ensure that its roots and stems continue to develop in a healthy way throughout the growing season. Fertilization will also help a Spider plant a set of leaves that looks fantastic, which is especially important for this plant since its foliage is its main point of ornamental appeal.

When is the best time to fertilize my Spider plant?

A Spider plant will need the greatest amount of fertilizer during the seasons in which it is actively growing. This active growth phase typically spans most of the months that make up spring, summer, and early fall.

Once winter ends, you should plan to feed your Spider plant about once every two to four weeks. Continue feeding at this rate until the fall months arrive. Once fall arrives, you can reduce your fertilization rate, reducing the amount of fertilizer you give gradually until you cease feedings entirely in anticipation of winter, when the Spider plant will have far less active growth.

When should I avoid fertilizing my Spider plant?

Throughout most of the year, including spring, summer, and most of the fall, you should continue feeding your Spider plant regularly. The only exception to this is if you notice that your Spider plant has received too much fertilizer or if you have managed to fertilize your Spider plant incorrectly, causing fertilizer burn or some other issue that you'll need to remedy before returning to a regular feeding schedule.

The only time of year when you should not fertilize a Spider plant is during winter. If you grow this plant indoors in an area where the winters are cold, it will enter a dormant phase during the winter. Feeding this plant during its dormant phase is not only unnecessary and unhelpful to this plant's growth, but it is also very likely to cause fertilizer burn.

What type of fertilizer does my Spider plant need?

The fertilizer for a Spider plant has a specific blend of nutrients, each of which is present in relatively low amounts. An ideal fertilizer will have an N-P-K ratio of 3-1-2. However, a general-purpose fertilizer that has an even blend of nutrients can work well in some cases. Still, even when using a balanced fertilizer, the ratio number representing the volume of each nutrient should be at 10 or lower.

The fertilizer you use can be either granular or liquid based. If you choose to use a liquid-based fertilizer, it is often best to dilute the strength by half. While there is not much downside to granular fertilizer, it is often most sensible to use liquid fertilizer, especially if you feed your Spider plant while you supply water.

How do I fertilize my Spider plant?

The fertilizer that you purchase for your Spider plant will likely come with application instructions that you should follow in most cases. However, for a Spider plant, you should always fertilize just before or while you are watering the soil, as this will prevent the fertilizer from burning the plant's roots.

If you use a slow-release granular fertilizer, you should sprinkle it on the soil and then provide water immediately after. If you use a liquid-based fertilizer, you should dilute it with water, apply it to the soil, then supply a bit more water. Diluting your fertilizer by at least half is especially important in spring and fall when the plant's growth is ramping up and decelerating, respectively.

What happens if I fertilize my Spider plant too much?

Since it is advisable to fertilize your Spider plant every few weeks throughout the growing season, overfertilization is not often an issue. However, it remains possible for this to occur. If you overfertilize your Spider plant, you may notice accumulations of excess fertilizer on the soil’s surface and foliage discoloration.

Fertilizer burn is the most common issue you should worry about when feeding a Spider plant. This issue occurs when you overfertilize, fail to dilute your fertilizer, or when don’t water during and after fertilization. In any of those cases, the fertilizer can draw moisture out of your plant’s roots, causing it to dry out. Often, fertilizer burn will manifest with browning and yellowing of this plant’s leaves.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

More About How-Tos

Explore 5 of plant how-tos on Feng shui direction, Water, Lighting, Temperature, Transplant spacing, etc.

Feng shui direction

East

The spider plant is believed to harmonize well in an East-facing direction, as it is associated with wood element energy and growth. This auspicious positioning promotes prosperity, family health, and balances the flow of natural energies, offering an uplifting and harmonious environment.

Water

Every week

Spider plant originates from environments with diverse moisture levels. Water when the soil feels dry to touch. Overwatering can be harmful, so only water when necessary.

Lighting

Partial sun

The spider plant thrives in areas with moderate sunlight exposure. Too much sunlight might damage it, while too little could stunt its growth. This plant is resilient and can adapt to lesser light conditions, referencing its native environment, the forest undergrowth. During different growth stages, the light requirement remains the same.

Temperature

10 to 35 ℃

The spider plant is native to tropical and subtropical regions, where temperatures range from 20 to 38℃ (68-100℉). It prefers temperatures around 24-27℃ (75-80℉) during the day and 16-21℃ (60-70℉) at night, with high humidity. During winter, it can tolerate temperatures around 10-13℃ (50-55℉) but avoid temperatures below 7℃ (45℉).

Transplant spacing

1 foot

The best time to transplant spider plant is during mid-spring to late spring, or mid-fall to late fall, as these seasons provide optimal growth conditions. Spider plant thrives in well-drained soil and bright, indirect light. Remember to handle roots gently to ensure successful transplantation.

Cock's comb (Celosia cristata) is a crested flowering plant native to India. The plant is named for its blossom, which resembles the head of a rooster. Cock's comb is susceptible to fungal diseases.

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Spider plant based on 10 million real cases

Leaf tips withering

Low air humidity can cause the edges of the leaves to dry out.

Solutions: If your plant has only a few dried tips, complete the following: Increase humidity. Increase the humidity around your plant by misting it with a spray bottle daily. Alternatively, you can use a humidifier. Water plant. If your soil is dry, water until the soil is moist but not damp. Water again when soil dries out. If a large portion of the leaves is suffering from dry tips, complete the following: Prune away affected tissue. Using sharp and clean pruning shears, remove the dried out tips using clean cuts to avoid harming healthy tissue. Plant tissue will heal on its own, but you can apply a pruning seal for extra protection.

Leaf scorch

Leaf blight causes leaves to dry out and turn brown starting at their tips.

Solutions: The solution to leaf scorch will depend on the cause, however, in general all cultural care methods that improve plant health and root functionality will reduce symptoms. Mulching the root zone (preferably with wood chip mulch) helps retain moisture, reduce evaporation, and promotes a healthy, functional root environment that is critical for water movement to the leaves. Check the root collar for girdling or circling roots that strangle the trunk and limit water and nutrient movement. Protect trees from severe root damage of nearby construction and excavation. If fertilizer burn is to blame, irrigate the soil deeply to flush out excess fertilizer salts. However, keep in mind that fertilizer runoff is an environmental pollutant. Avoiding excess fertilization in the first place is the best approach. If soil testing has revealed a potassium deficiency, apply a potassium fertilizer and water well. Even if you have enough potassium in the soil, plants will not be able to take it up if the soil is consistently too dry. Severely affected twigs may be removed using a pair of sharp and sanitized pruning shears, as weakened branches are susceptible to secondary infections. If your plant has bacterial leaf scorch, there is no cure. Antibiotic injections applied by a professional can reduce symptoms for a season, however, the above cultural management methods are the best options to reduce symptoms and prolong life. An infected plant will likely die within ten years.

Leaf rot

This pathogen can cause the leaves to rot.

Solutions: Bacterial infections need to be treated quickly to prevent the spread to neighboring, healthy plants, potentially wiping out large sections of your indoor or outdoor garden. In mild cases: Use sterilized (10% bleach solution) pruning shears or scissors to remove any infected plant parts, making sure to dispose of them off site. Use a copper-based bactericide to treat the unaffected foliage, as well as the soil, and neighboring plants. Follow the manufacturer’s rate and timing directions found on the product label. In severe cases, where more than half the leaves are affected: Remove all of the infected plants from the garden, disposing of them off site. Treat the soil and neighboring plants using a copper-based bactericide. Follow the manufacturer’s rate and timing directions found on the product label.

Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

Solutions: In minor cases of brown spot, there isn’t any need to treat the disease. However, if much of the foliage is affected and defoliation occurs, the plant will benefit from getting rid of the infection. It is recommended to start by applying organic treatment options, working up to the more potent synthetic, chemical fungicides if necessary. Organic options won’t kill the fungus, but will prevent it from spreading. Dissolve ½ teaspoon of baking soda and one teaspoon of liquid soap in a gallon of water. Using a spray bottle, spray on tops and bottoms of leaves until the mixture drips off. Repeat every two weeks until existing spots stop enlarging and new spots no longer appear. Spray a copper-based fungicidal soap on the leaves, coating the top and bottom leaf surfaces. Reapply as directed on the product label. Copper penetrates the leaf surface and prevents germination of spores so the fungus cannot spread. Apply an all-purpose fungicide to the entire plant, following the label instructions carefully.

Underwatering

Leaves may wilt for a variety of reasons.

Solutions: The easiest (and most obvious) way to address underwatering is to fully hydrate the plant. However, this must be done carefully. A common mistake that many gardeners make is to douse their underwatered plants with water. This can overwhelm the roots of the plant and shock its system, something that can be even more damaging than the lack of water to begin with. Instead, water thoroughly and slowly, taking breaks to let the water slowly saturate through the soil to get to the roots. Use room temperature water, as cold water might be too much of a shock. In the future, shorten the time between waterings. A good rule of thumb is to check the soil around each plant daily. If it’s dry to at least two inches down, it’s time to water. If a container plant is repeatedly drying out very quickly, repotting into a slower-draining container might be a good idea, too.

Scars

Any light-colored markings that appear on stems but which do not enlarge or multiply are simply scars that have healed.

Solutions: Each source of scarring requires a different approach to help your plant recover. Protect the trunk and leaves from physical damage like scrapes. If pests or disease are the cause of scarring, isolate the plant from others to avoid further spread. Some pests can be removed with organic remedies such as a soft cloth and soapy water solution or diluted isopropyl alcohol spray. Stop sunburn by moving your plant away from direct sunlight and making sure it has the water it needs. Frequent leaf or bud loss may be due to insufficient light or nutrients.

Treat and prevent plant diseases.

AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.

Distribution Map

Habitat

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

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Herb

Flower Color

White

Bloom Time

Summer

Leaf Color

White

Green

Variegated

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.

Symbolism

Caring, connections with others

Usages

Artistic Value

Chinese poets often praise spider plants in their poems.

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.

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Species

Find your perfect green friends.

Plan your green oasis based on your criteria: plant type, pet safety, skill level, sites, and more.

Related Plants

Cock's comb

The rainbow tree (Dracaena angustifolia) is native to Asia and is a member of the asparagus family that grows in the understories of tropical forests. Ornamentally, it can function both as an indoor and outdoor shrub. Substances from the rainbow tree can be used to create green dye.

Summer, autumn

Rainbow tree

Dracaena plants of Asparagaceae (Dracaena spp.) are excellent indoor ornamental plants, easy to maintain. They can be evergreen and grow slowly with a continuous water supply and proper filtered light ensured. The leaves of corn plants are often used to decorate flower bouquets; the lucky bamboo can be used for decoration as a hydroponic plant, and the gold dust can be planted outdoors as bushes.

Summer

Garden Usage

Banyan tree

Banyan tree (Ficus benghalensis) is a tree species that germinates in cracks and crevices of other trees or structures. Banyan tree grows by emitting aerial roots and forming a canopy. The banyan tree is the national tree of the Republic of India and has religious significance.

Plants of genus Ficus are often used in arbors and shrubs, as it usually grows large. If it is planted in a garden, choose a wide plot to give it enough space. It can also be planted in a flowerpot and maintained indoors at early stages, and transplanted to a garden later on. Its attractive green leaves require a warm, humid environment; we consider it a medium level difficulty plant to care.

All year around

Garden Usage

Pinwheel flower

Pinwheel flower (Tabernaemontana divaricata) is an evergreen shrub that can grow to 2.5 m tall. White, pinwheel-shaped flowers with a carnation-like fragrance bloom year-round. Easy to grow in light shade to full sun. Popular as a backdrop for gardens and as a natural hedge.

Common globe amaranth (Gomphrena globosa) is an edible flowering plant native to Central America. Other common names for common globe amaranth are the makhmali and vadamalli. Common globe amaranth is commonly cultivated in landscaping for its bright colors, and is used in leis in Hawaii. Common globe amaranth attracts insects, including butterflies and bees.

Spring, summer

Common globe amaranth

The common globe amaranth is commonly planted at the front of borders, where it fills in any gaps left behind by spring bulbs. However, newly-bred varieties have given gardeners more options, with this plant now being used more creatively. No matter the variety you choose, the common globe amaranth is a strong and resilient plant that is extremely easy to care for and requires little maintenance once established., The common globe amaranth produces colorful flowers in purples, whites, and oranges, with all varieties having a long blooming time. In addition to brightening up the garden, these gorgeous blooms are also popular cut flowers, and last for several years when used in dried flower arrangements.

Summer, autumn

Garden Usage

Mistletoe cactus

Mistletoe cactus (Rhipsalis baccifera) is a species found in Central America, South America, the Caribbean, and Florida. Mistletoe cactus is the only cactus species that occurs naturally outside the New World. It is hypothesized that it was seeded in Africa by migratory birds traveling across the Atlantic Ocean. This species is considered easy to maintain as a houseplant and is often grown as a houseplant in hanging planters.

Plant Collection Most Common Herb Fragrant plantain lily See More The trademark feature of Asia-native plantain lilies is the numerous glossy oval leaves with deep parallel veins. The Fragrant plantain lily is additionally decorated with strongly fragrant, trumpet-shaped, large white flowers, which are unique in the genus. Hosta plantaginea is one of the favorite cultivatedContinue reading “Most Common Herb”

Plant Collection Best Perennial Plant to Grow Orange daylily See More The Orange daylily is a perennial plant known for its captivating lily-like blooms. Its natural habitats are meadows and forests, but it is also a common garden plant in temperate regions around the world. Each individual flower lasts only a day, but the plantContinue reading “Best Perennial Plant to Grow”

Plant Collection Suggested Plants to Build a Garden That Blooms All the Year Round Bearded iris See More BloomTime:Spring The Bearded iris is a flowering plant that appears in many different colors. It is a popular garden plant because it’s easy to grow. Though their native lands are in Europe, Bearded irises are often grownContinue reading “Suggested Plants to Build a Garden That Blooms All the Year Round”

Plant Collection Best Perennial Plant to Grow China rose See More The China rose (Rosa chinensis) is a Southwest China native. The plant has been cultivated for so long that it has become hard to tell the difference between wild and cultivated varieties. With medium-sized clusters of flowers and a long blooming season, it isContinue reading “Best Perennial Plant to Grow”

Most Common Forb

Plant Collection Most Common Forb Orange daylily See More The Orange daylily is a perennial plant known for its captivating lily-like blooms. Its natural habitats are meadows and forests, but it is also a common garden plant in temperate regions around the world. Each individual flower lasts only a day, but the plant will bloomContinue reading “Most Common Forb”

Trim the diseased, withered leaves once a month.

Most Common Herb

Plant Collection Most Common Herb Golden pothos See More The Golden pothos is a popular flowering house plant that’s commonly seen in Australia, Asia, and the West Indies. It goes by many nicknames, including “devil’s ivy,” because it is so hard to kill, and can grow in the dark. Golden pothos has poisonous sap, soContinue reading “Most Common Herb”

View More Articles

Add to My Garden

Spider plant

Chlorophytum comosum

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.

Water

Every week

Sunlight

Partial sun

Care Guide for Spider plant

Water

Fertilization

Pruning

Soil

Loam, Sand, Chalky, Clay, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline

Potting Suggestions

Needs excellent drainage in pots

Know the light your plants really get.

Find the best spots for them to optimize their health, simply using your phone.

Download the App

Questions About Spider plant

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Spider plant?

What should I do if I water my Spider plant too much or too little?

How often should I water my Spider plant?

How much water does my Spider plant need?

How should I water my Spider plant at different growth stages?

How should I water my Spider plant through the seasons?

What's the difference between watering my Spider plant indoors and outdoors?

Is pruning necessary for my Spider plant?

When should I prune my Spider plant?

How do I prune my Spider plant?

What should I do after pruning my Spider plant?

Are there any important tips when pruning my Spider plant?

How many hours of sunlight does Spider plant need to grow?

What will happen if Spider plant doesn’t get enough sunlight?

What will happen if Spider plant gets too much sunlight?

What is the optimal temperature for Spider plant?

Does Spider plant require different temperatures for different growing phases?

Does Spider plant need different temperatures for different seasons?

What are the temperature guidelines to keep your Spider plant healthy?

What is the best way to maintain the right temperature for my Spider plant?

Why do I need to fertilize my Spider plant?

When is the best time to fertilize my Spider plant?

When should I avoid fertilizing my Spider plant?

What type of fertilizer does my Spider plant need?

How do I fertilize my Spider plant?

What happens if I fertilize my Spider plant too much?

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App

More About How-Tos

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Spider plant based on 10 million real cases

Leaf tips withering

Low air humidity can cause the edges of the leaves to dry out.

Learn More

Leaf scorch

Leaf blight causes leaves to dry out and turn brown starting at their tips.

Learn More

Leaf rot

This pathogen can cause the leaves to rot.

Learn More

Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

Learn More

Underwatering

Leaves may wilt for a variety of reasons.

Learn More

Scars

Any light-colored markings that appear on stems but which do not enlarge or multiply are simply scars that have healed.

Learn More

Treat and prevent plant diseases.

AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.

Download the App

Distribution Map

Habitat

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

Map

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Herb

Flower Color

White

Bloom Time

Summer

Leaf Color

White

Green

Variegated

Name story

Spider plant

Symbolism

Caring, connections with others

Usages

Artistic Value

Chinese poets often praise spider plants in their poems.

Environmental Protection Value

It can purify air and absorb formaldehyde.

Garden Use

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Species

Find your perfect green friends.

Plan your green oasis based on your criteria: plant type, pet safety, skill level, sites, and more.

Download the App

Related Plants

Cock's comb

Celosia cristata

Rainbow tree

Dracaena angustifolia

Banyan tree

Ficus benghalensis

Pinwheel flower

Tabernaemontana divaricata

Common globe amaranth

# Useful Tips