Chlorophytum orchidastrum aka Fire Flash

Chlorophytum orchidastrum is an evergreen perennial in the asparagus family. Its native range spans western tropical Africa to Zambia. It comes from regions with a seasonally dry tropical climate. Common names include mandarin plant and orange spider plant. Gardeners grow it indoors for its leaves and orange stalks. It also suits containers in greenhouses and conservatories.

The plant forms upright clumps of leaves arranged in rosettes. Plants reach about 0.7–1.3 feet [0.2–0.4 metres] tall. The RHS gives an upper height of 1.6 feet [0.5 metres]. Clumps spread about 1.3–2 feet [0.4–0.6 metres] wide. Broad, glossy green leaves taper to fine points. Each leaf can reach about 1 foot [0.3 metres] long. The leaf edges have waves rather than teeth. Bright orange petioles and midribs stand out against the green blades. Slender, curved stems also have an apricot-orange shade.

Small flowers rise from the middle of the clump in summer. NC State places bloom time in July and August. The white or cream flowers have a star shape. The RHS describes six petals with a hint of green. Flowers grow in loose racemes or panicles and last briefly. Flower stalks can reach 1.3 feet [0.4 metres] long. After pollination, green seed pods form with a triangular shape. They turn brown, split open, and release their seeds. This species does not form plantlets.

Give it bright, indirect light and shelter from hot sun. Use a loam-based potting mix that drains well. Water when the top soil layer feels dry. Supply more water during growth and less at other times. It prefers warmth above 60°F and humidity around 50–60%. NC State lists USDA zones 10b–12b; the RHS rates it H1B. Keep it safe from frost. Repot in spring when roots fill the pot. Divide clumps, or sow seeds in spring. The plant needs no routine pruning.

Pests and diseases cause few problems under suitable growing conditions. Still, watch for scale, aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. Root rot and leaf spot can occur. Dry air can turn leaf tips brown. Direct sun may scorch the leaves. NC State lists it as non-toxic to cats and dogs. The supplied sources do not describe edible uses or human safety.