Source: Wikimedia Commons
Spider Plant
BeginnerChlorophytum comosum
Plant with baby plants hanging from runners like paper cranes. Hardy with high air purification effect.
About
Chlorophytum comosum, the spider plant, is a perennial in the family Asparagaceae, native to tropical and southern Africa. One of the most widely grown houseplants in the world, it forms rosettes of long, arching, strap-like leaves with a central white or yellow stripe, and produces long stolons (runners) tipped with miniature plantlets that dangle from the parent plant — a growth habit that gives rise to the 'spider plant' common name. In Japan, the plantlets resemble origami cranes, hence the Japanese name オリヅルラン ('folded crane plant'). Exceptionally hardy and adaptable, it tolerates low light, irregular watering, and cool temperatures. Bright indirect light produces the most vivid variegation. Recognised in NASA's Clean Air Study as an effective remover of indoor pollutants. Plantlets can be propagated by rooting them in water or soil. Elegant and charming when displayed in hanging baskets.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Spider Plant
The Spider Plant grows to 20-40cm.
Basic Info
Origin
Tropical and southern Africa
Lifespan
Perennial
Size
20-40cm
Temperature
15〜30℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Watering & Fertilizer
Watering, Liquid fertilizer
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Bright indirect light sharpens the variegation, but it tolerates shade and grows fine in dim spots. Avoid harsh direct sun, which damages the leaves.
Watering
Water thoroughly once the soil dries. It tolerates some drought, but prolonged sogginess damages the roots, so empty the saucer.
Propagation
Propagate by separating runner babies
Soil & Repotting
Plant in a well-draining mix. The thick roots quickly fill the pot, so repot one size up or divide once the plant gets crowded.
Spider Plant FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Spider Plant?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QHow large does Spider Plant get?
The mature size of Spider Plant is 20-40cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Spider Plant?
Spider Plant: watering & fertilizer — Watering, Liquid fertilizer. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Spider Plant?
The price of Spider Plant varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Growing Specifications
- USDA Zone
- 9–11
Sources: Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder - Chlorophytum comosum
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Foliage plant. Confirmed by document review to be non-applicable to CITES Appendix (Flora), designated invasive species, or designated animals (the genus does not appear in the CITES flora section; Dracaena spp. listings in CITES refer to a reptile genus of the same name; the plant Dracaena is not applicable).
Sources: CITES Appendices I/II/III (flora section, grepped via dbca mirror) / CITES Appendices (official) / Ministry of the Environment List of Specified Invasive Alien Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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