Chlorophytum
The Plant of
Enduring Ease
The Chlorophytum, or spider plant, is a beautiful indoor plant with green and white striped, thin and long leaves that drape over the grower pot. They are wonderful plants to have for their fast-growing abilities, easiness to maintain, long lasting natures, and for purifying the air. Studies have shown that spider plant is quite effective in cleaning indoor air by absorbing chemicals including formaldehyde, xylene, benzene, and carbon monoxide in homes or offices.
Chlorophytum Care Line Classification
Care Information
Light
Place in bright, indirect light.
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 55-80°F.
Water
When soil feels dry to the touch, remove from pot and water thoroughly. Allow excess water to drain before returning to its container.
The Chlorophytum: Deep Dive
Season
Year-round indoors
Care
This undemanding plant thrives in bright spots, and should be placed in indirect contact with the sun. The light contributes to the development of a strong coloring of the leaves. If possible, the spider plant should avoid hot midday sun to prevent burned leaves. These plants enjoy average humidity- an ideal spot for your spider plant is in a well-lit bathroom, as the plant will absorb all the moisture it needs from the air after you finish a steamy shower.
The spider plant should be watered regularly and generously and the soil should be kept slightly damp. Waterlogging should be strictly avoided. Its thick roots can store water, which is why it can survive short dry periods. It is best to take off the wrap or non-draining container and place in a sink when watering to allow it to drain from the bottom of the pot. Once the pot has drained, replace it to its original spot.
Home to Garden
Spider plants do well outdoors in warm climates. If you live in USDA zones 9 to 11, then spider plants will last all year outdoors. Choose a spot in your garden that receives indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight causes the foliage of the spider plant to whiter and turns brown at the tips. Make sure you choose an area of the yard with loose, loamy soil that drains well. Spider plants don’t need much in the way of fertilizer, and you can get away with one fertilizing session in early spring.
Flower Meaning
According to some beliefs, this plant symbolizes fertility if hung in the bedroom. Hanging this plant in the kitchen brings abundance and prosperity. It also serves as a symbol of renewed connections with others. Some say it is efficient in removing the negative energies from homes and promoting Chi energies in it. It is a wonderful plant to give to people who are moving away from home for the first time or to help bring balance into yours.
Fun Facts
Chlorophytum derives from the greek word for green (Chloros) and plant (phyton). Central and South Africa are the cradle of the Spider Plant. More precisely, the tropical and subtropical zone of the continent, which includes from west Liberia, Côte d’Ivoire, Nigeria and Cameroon and to the east almost all countries from Ethiopia to South Africa. The Spider Plant, thanks to the regeneration capability offered by its stolons, could be described as an immortal plant – a “Highlander” plant. These plants are known to live up to 25 years. It is recommended that Highlander plants grown in pots are renewed every 3-5 years.
