The Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) is one of the easiest houseplants to grow, prized for its arching, variegated leaves striped with creamy white and green. It is a classic choice for beginners and for anyone who wants greenery that looks after itself.

As the plant matures it sends out long trailing stems tipped with small plantlets, often called spiderettes, which give it its cascading, characterful habit and can be potted on to grow new plants for free. Small white, star shaped flowers sometimes appear on these stems from spring into summer.

This plant arrives as an established young plant in a 12cm pot, ready to display on a shelf, windowsill or in a hanging basket. It is happy anywhere from a bright spot out of direct sun to a shadier corner of a room, and it copes well with average household conditions. Let the top of the compost dry out a little between waterings, and water less often over winter.

Cats are often drawn to chewing on the trailing plantlets, and eating a large amount can cause a mild stomach upset, so it is worth keeping an eye on a curious cat around this plant.

Cultural Information

• Common Name: Spider Plant
• Fully Grown Height and Spread: Approx. 30-50cm tall and 30-60cm wide (variety dependent)
• Growth Habit: Clump-forming, with long arching leaves and cascading plantlet-bearing stems
• Perfect For: Shelves, windowsills, hanging baskets and bright rooms
• Foliage: Long, arching variegated leaves with a creamy-white central stripe and green margins
• Flowering Time: Spring to summer, small white star-shaped flowers
• Flower Colour: White
• Planting Position: Bright indirect light to medium or low light, avoid prolonged direct sun
• Hardiness: Tender houseplant (H2), keep above about 5C and away from cold draughts
• Maintenance: Low maintenance and easy care
• Type: Evergreen Houseplant