Spider plant (Chlorophytum capense)
Care, watering, light and tips for Spider plant on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Asparagaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Indirect light
- Temperature: 10–35 °C
About Spider plant
The Chlorophytum comosum, commonly known as Spider Plant or Airplane Plant, is a very popular and easy-to-care-for houseplant, ideal for beginners. It is characterized by its long, arching leaves, often with green and white stripes, which produce small, hanging "plantlets" or "spiderettes." It's perfect for hanging baskets, high shelves, or as a decorative element in any room, adding a fresh and vibrant touch.
Native range
Southern Africa
Care tips
It prefers bright, indirect light, avoiding direct sun which can scorch its leaves. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, allowing water to drain well to prevent waterlogging. Use a well-draining universal potting mix. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot; it's better to err on the side of dry than wet.
How to save a dying Spider plant
- Warning signs
- Pale, soft, yellowing leaves or brown tips. Stunted growth.
- First aid
- Check drainage and substrate moisture. Repot if waterlogged or compacted. Prune damaged leaves.
- What kills it
- Overwatering (causes root rot) or complete lack of light (severely weakens it).
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, it's very resilient. Identify and correct the problem quickly. Propagate healthy plantlets.