Spider plant, Chlorophytum comosum

What is a Spider plant?

Spider plants, also known as Chlorophytum comosum and Spider ivy, are beautiful indoor plants, perfect for use both around the home and in a terrarium. Native to Southern Africa, the Spider plant is an extremely hardy plant comfortable in both shade and direct sunlight, able to withstand most temperatures over 10C and with occasional need for water. Mature plants can act as a mother plant to produce baby spider plants, which make fantastic gifts for friends and family. This specimen is sold by our live plant growers, where it will have been carefully cultivated to ensure it arrives in outstanding health.

Why should I buy a Spider plant?

Spider plants are a superb choice for first-time exotic gardeners or those looking for a plant that is quite easygoing. Spider plant care is very straightforward and mostly consists of occasional watering, then brushing off any excess moisture to avoid common problems like brown leaf tips, root rot and soggy soil. Spider plants are very well suited to hanging baskets and their star-shaped flowers look spectacular in the summer months. They are popular indoor plants, however, to get the most from them we recommend growing them in a terrarium where they will flourish.

What are Spider plants good for?

Spider plants make spectacular additions to houses with lots of pets as they are non-toxic and tough plants, able to regrow even after a nibble from a curious cat. They also sit well in terrariums for this reason, as they pose no threat to reptiles and can even help to encourage natural behaviours. The good drainage normally found in terrariums helps Spider plants as well, as it reduces the risk of brown tips and rot. It's important that you regularly water Spider plants when they are in a terrarium to ensure they don't dry out and shrivel.

Where is the best place to keep a Spider plant?

Spider plants aren't fussy, they will sit in direct sunlight happily and will thrive almost as well in shade. The biggest impact that sunlight will have on your plant will be colouration, with shaded plants staying solid green and plants in direct sunlight developing dark green leaves. Spider plants can also sit in a hanging basket with some drainage holes to reduce moisture collection.