Chlorophytum comosum aka Spider Plant

Chlorophytum comosum, or spider plant, is an evergreen perennial. It belongs to the asparagus family, Asparagaceae. Its native range covers parts of western, eastern, and southern Africa. It grows beneath forests and beside streams. Some plants grow in rock cracks or on other plants. Fleshy, tuberous roots hold food reserves beneath the leaf clump.

Garden plants reach about 1–2 feet [0.3–0.61 metres] tall. Their spread can reach 2 feet [0.61 metres]. Some sources give smaller heights near 1 foot [0.3 metres]. Leaves crowd together on a short stem at ground level. They arch outward, giving the plant a flowing form. The long, narrow leaves are green or striped with white. They can reach 1–1.5 feet [0.3–0.46 metres] long. Each leaf has smooth edges and a deep central groove.

Long green stolons carry small flowers and young plantlets. The white flowers form loose clusters along these stems. Each star-shaped flower has six spreading tepals. Small capsules may follow the flowers. Plantlets hang beyond the pot and can form new plants. Short days and long, unbroken nights help trigger their growth. Plants also grow from seed or by division. Remove spent flower stems when you do not need plantlets.

Indoors, give the plant bright light without direct sun. It also tolerates shade and artificial light. Direct sun can scorch the leaves. Keep soil moist, but let excess water drain away. Water less during winter, and avoid heavy feeding. The plant withstands some drought, though dry conditions can spoil leaves. Loam or sandy soil suits it. RHS rates its cold tolerance as H2. Missouri Botanical Garden lists USDA zones 9–11. Keep it free from frost, ideally above 50°F. Use it in hanging baskets, pots, or warm-climate ground cover. It also suits shaded edges and summer outdoor displays.

Most plants have few serious problems under suitable conditions. Wet soil can cause root rot. Scale insects, aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites may attack it. Dry air, low water, and salts can brown leaf tips. Fluoride in water can also damage the tips. Useful Tropical Plants reports no known food uses or hazards. ASPCA lists it as non-toxic to cats and dogs. Reported folk uses include care for burns, fractures, and bronchitis. Lab studies of extracts do not establish safe medical use.