Spider Plant

Chlorophytum comosumAlso known as: Airplane Plant, Ribbon Plant, Spider Ivy

The Spider Plant is a classic, easy-care houseplant known for its arching green and white striped leaves and adorable baby plantlets that dangle from the mother plant. Native to South Africa, it's been a popular houseplant since the Victorian era and is excellent for beginners.

Easy Care

Medium Light

Perennial

Quick Care Summary

Light
Medium Light

Temperature Range
55-80°F (13-27°C)

Ideal Temp
70°F (21°C)

Pet Safe

This plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs. While it's safe to have around pets, ingestion of any plant material may still cause mild stomach upset.

Seasonal Care Schedule

Adjust your care routine based on the season for optimal plant health.

Watering Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 7 days, keep soil lightly moist
Summer	Every 5-7 days
Fall	Every 7-10 days
Winter	Every 10-14 days

Fleshy roots store water. Brown tips often from fluoride/chlorine - use filtered water.

Misting Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Weekly
Summer	1-2 times per week
Fall	Weekly
Winter	Weekly, especially in heated rooms

Tolerates average humidity but appreciates occasional misting.

Fertilizing Schedule

Season	Schedule
Spring	Every 2 weeks with diluted fertilizer
Summer	Every 2 weeks
Fall	Monthly
Winter	No fertilizing

Use half-strength fertilizer. Over-fertilizing causes brown tips.

Pruning

Frequency: As desired

Best Season: Any time

Remove brown tips with scissors. Cut off baby plantlets to encourage mother plant growth or propagate them.

Repotting

Frequency: Every 1-2 years

Best Season: Spring

Fast grower - may need frequent repotting. Thick roots can crack pots. Use standard potting mix.

Flowering

Season
Spring/summer when slightly rootbound

Color
Small white flowers

Tiny white flowers appear on long stems, followed by baby plantlets (spiderettes).

Propagation Methods

Root baby plantlets in water or soil
Division of mature plants
Spiderettes can be rooted while still attached to mother plant

Common Problems

Brown tips: Fluoride in water, over-fertilizing, or low humidity
Pale leaves: Too much direct sun
No babies: Too young, too much fertilizer, or not enough light
Floppy leaves: Needs water or root damage

Pro Tips

One of NASA's top air-purifying plants
Safe for cats and dogs!
Perfect for hanging baskets
Brown tips are cosmetic - trim them at an angle for natural look

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