Chlorophytum comosum 'Variegatum' (Variegated Spider Plant)

Chlorophytum comosum 'Variegatum' (Variegated Spider Plant)

Plant Description

Chlorophytum comosum 'Variegatum', commonly known as the Variegated Spider Plant, is a popular, low-maintenance houseplant recognized for its long, arching green leaves with creamy white margins. It produces small, star-shaped white flowers on long stems, followed by plantlets (spiderettes) that dangle from the mother plant, giving it a cascading appearance. The Spider Plant is hardy and well-known for its air-purifying properties and adaptability to various growing conditions.

Native Range

Native to South Africa, where it thrives in subtropical and tropical environments.

USDA Hardiness Zones

Zones: 9–11 (Can be grown indoors in all zones)

Size

Height: 12–18 inches tall
Width: 12–24 inches wide (can spread more with plantlets)

Light Requirements

Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. Too much direct sunlight may scorch the leaves, while too little light can reduce variegation.

Soil Requirements

Well-draining, loamy, or sandy soil with good aeration. A standard houseplant potting mix with added perlite works well. Prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0).

Watering Needs

Water moderately, allowing the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Tolerant of occasional drought but thrives with consistent moisture.

Humidity & Temperature

Prefers temperatures between 65–80°F (18–27°C). Can tolerate brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but is not frost-hardy.
Prefers moderate humidity but adapts well to typical indoor conditions. If the air is too dry, brown tips may appear on leaves.

Fertilization

Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 2–4 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall). Reduce feeding in winter.

Propagation

Easily propagated by removing and planting spiderettes (baby plantlets) in soil or water. Can also be divided by separating mature clumps.

Uses

Indoor Houseplant: One of the best low-maintenance houseplants, great for beginners.

Hanging Baskets: Ideal for cascading growth, adding greenery to indoor or shaded outdoor spaces.

Air Purification: Helps remove toxins such as formaldehyde and carbon monoxide from indoor air.

Ground Cover (Warm Climates): Can be used as a border or ground cover in shaded garden beds.

Pest & Disease Management

Watch for spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if needed.
Susceptible to root rot if overwatered—ensure proper drainage.
Browning leaf tips may result from fluoride in tap water—use filtered or distilled water if necessary.

---SHIPPING NOTICE PLEASE READ BEFORE PURCHASING LIVE PLANTS!---

 We WILL NOT refund the purchase of or the shipping cost of live plants purchased with the intent to be shipped to states that do not authorize importing live plants or to states with restrictions! Purchases to these states will be held for 30 days for pick-up at our Slidell, Louisiana store and the shipping cost associated with these purchases will be held for the care of the plant while waiting to be picked up. All sales are final. If the plant(s) purchased are not picked up within 30 days from the date of order, these items will be returned to our sales inventory and you WILL NOT be refunded. Thank you for understanding these policies.

Due to regulations, certain states have restrictions on importing plants. Please review the list below to ensure you're not attempting to order any restricted plants in your area.

**Important Note:** We do not ship any plants outside the U.S.

State-Specific Restrictions - We ARE NOT responsible for any plant(s) that are not listed in these restrictions. Purchaser bears all responsibility for making sure the plant(s) they desire to purchase are not banned from being imported to the shipping state:

Arizona: Juglans spp.  

California: Castanea spp., Juglans spp., Pinus spp., Quercus spp.  

Colorado: Some counties restrict Prunus spp. Please verify your local county regulations.  

Florida: Castanea spp., Cornus spp., Quercus spp., Cornus mas 

Georgia: Vaccinium spp.

Hawaii: Pinus spp. 

Idaho: Humulus lupulus, Mentha spp., Vitis spp.

Indiana: Fragraria spp., Rosa spp. 

Kansas: Juglans spp.

Michigan: Abies spp., Vaccinium spp.

Montana: Pinus spp.

Nevada: Allium spp.

Mentha spp. 

New Jersey: Rosa spp.  

New York: Vitis spp.  

Oregon: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Quercus spp., Sambucus nigra, Ulmus spp., Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.

Texas: Juglans spp. 

Washington: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.  

Wisconsin: Abies spp., Pinus spp., Picea spp., Mentha spp. 

Additionally, we cannot ship plants in soil medium to the following states: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, HI, ID, KS, MS, MT, ND, NM, NV, OK, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA.