Spider plant
Chlorophytum comosum
Also known as Airplane plant, Ribbon plant
Arching, striped leaves and dangling baby plantlets. It is easygoing, fast-growing and safe for homes with pets.
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Native to
- Tropical and southern Africa
- Plant type
- Herbaceous perennial
- Care level
- Easy
- Pets
- Non-toxic
How to care for spider plant
Light
Bright, indirect light. Tolerates medium light.
Water
Water when the top 2–3 cm (1 in) of soil is dry.
Humidity
Normal household humidity is fine.
Temperature
13–27 °C (55–80 °F).
Soil
General-purpose, well-draining potting mix.
Fertilizer
Balanced liquid fertilizer monthly in spring and summer.
Common problems
- Brown leaf tips
- Fluoride and salts in tap water, or dry air. Use filtered water and flush the soil occasionally.
- No plantlets
- The plant needs to be mature and a little root-bound, with enough light.
Propagation
Root the plantlets (“spiderettes”) in water or pin them onto soil while still attached.
Similar plants
Snake plant
Dracaena trifasciata
Toxic to petsEasy
Monstera
Monstera deliciosa
Toxic to petsEasy
Pothos
Epipremnum aureum
Toxic to petsEasy
Written by the Plant Identifier Editorial Team · Last updated September 24, 2026 · Toxicity based on the ASPCA plant lists.