Spider plants are some of the most hassle-free houseplants you can find. These resilient plants are perfect for beginners and anyone who prefers low-maintenance greenery.
Spider plants are popular, easy-care houseplants with lush foliage [Photo: Rose Makin/ Shutterstock.com]
Commonly known as Chlorophytum comosum, spider plants are decorative houseplants that thrive in hanging baskets. In this article, we’ll explore the origins of spider plants, dive into different varieties, and address any concerns regarding their toxicity.
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Spider Plant Flowers, Origin & Properties
The most commonly kept spider plant species as a houseplant is Chlorophytum comosum. While there are other spider plant species out there, they can be harder to find and care for. Let’s delve deeper into the unique characteristics that set each variety apart.
Spider plants, also referred to as spider ivy, hen and chickens, or ribbon plants, belong to the Asparagaceae family. They originate from southern Africa, typically found in the undergrowth of mountainous regions, as well as areas near rivers and bushes.
Spider plants have clump-forming habits, with white, fleshy roots that can grow up to 60cm tall. Their long, narrow leaves, which can reach up to 45cm in length, grow in dense clusters. Depending on the variety, the foliage can be fully green or feature white or yellow stripes. At the end of the long stems where spider plants flower, you’ll notice offshoots, also known as pups or spiderettes. These offshoots make propagating spider plants a breeze. If you’re interested in planting spider plants, refer to our separate article on proper planting techniques.
In its natural habitat, spider plants take on a different form [Photo: Jandro March/ Shutterstock.com]
Spider Plant Flowers
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Spider plants can bloom almost year-round when exposed to sufficient daily light. The flowers are hermaphroditic, star-shaped, and cluster in groups of one to six on an inflorescence. These inflorescences can grow up to 1m long, eventually producing the spiderettes that weigh down the stem in an elegant arch. This positioning enables the spider plant babies to take root once they reach the ground. When fully developed, the flowers also give rise to rare capsule fruits containing three black seeds each.
New plants can easily be grown from the offshoots [Photo: Tia Thompson/ Shutterstock.com]
Are Spider Plants Air-Purifying?
Spider plants are not only visually appealing but also actively contribute to improving indoor air quality. They filter the air and release oxygen through photosynthesis, just like other plants. They have been proven to absorb harmful substances such as formaldehyde, xylenes, and toluene, while their waxy cell layers help trap fine dust particles. However, it’s important to note that the air-purifying effects of spider plants, like other plants, are most significant when you have a sufficient number of them. One or two spider plants in a room won’t have a noticeable impact. This holds true for other air-purifying plants as well.
Spider Plant Lookalikes
Mondo grass (Ophiopogon jaburan) might initially strike you as similar to spider plants, especially the variegated variety. However, mondo grass leaves are narrower, giving the plant a lighter appearance.
Spider plants are known for their air-purifying effect [Photo: Mykola Kolomiets/ Shutterstock.com]
Beautiful Spider Plant Species and Varieties
Here are some additional spider plant species and their distinctive varieties:
Common Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Chlorophytum comosum is the most widely recognized spider plant species, and its variegated varieties are commonly found in stores. Let’s explore some popular varieties:
- Bonnie: Also known as the curly spider plant, this variety features leaves with a broad white stripe down the middle and noticeable curls.
- Variegatum: This variety boasts leaves with white edges and is arguably the best-selling spider plant variety.
- Milky Way: With grass-like thin leaves and white edges, this variety adds a unique touch to your collection.
- Vittatum: Donning a broad white stripe down the middle, this variety stands out beautifully.
- Lemon: One of the rare varieties that still retains pure green leaves.
The curly leaves of the ‘Bonnie’ variety make the growth appear more compact [Photo: ArtCreationsDesignPhoto/ Shutterstock.com]
Green Orange Spider Plant (Chlorophytum orchidastrum)
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Green orange spider plants feature broad green leaves and vibrant orange stems. These plants typically grow 30 to 40cm tall and wide. While Chlorophytum orchidastrum flowers are short-lived and rarely seen in houseplants, they are also sometimes referred to as Sierra Leone lilies or fire flash.
Green orange spider plant leaves do not tolerate direct sunlight
Hawaiian Spider Plant (Chlorophytum viridescens)
This spider plant species closely resembles Chlorophytum comosum. Initially, its narrow, elongated leaves showcase variegation, but as they mature, they transform into a solid, vibrant green. Hawaiian spider plants produce flowers and offshoots identical to those of common spider plants.
Tip: The spider plant variety Chlorophytum laxum also resembles Chlorophytum comosum but is much rarer.
Are Spider Plants Poisonous?
The good news is that spider plants are not toxic to humans, cats, or dogs. If you have curious toddlers or pets roaming around, feel free to keep spider plants in your home without any worries. However, it’s best to discourage consumption, as these plants are not intended for ingestion. While spider plants are safe for furry companions, it’s important to remember that not all plants are pet-friendly. To discover which plants are safe to have around pets, check out our article on pet-friendly plants for the home and garden.
Spider plants are truly a delight to have in any home. With their resilience, aesthetic appeal, and air-purifying abilities, they effortlessly uplift any living space. So why not bring some greenery into your life with a beautiful spider plant?
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Category: Safe Plants
