Variegated Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum 'Vittatum')

Variegated Spider Plant

Chlorophytum comosum 'Vittatum'

Archiving foliage trails like living green ribbons. Evergreen herbaceous perennial; common name: airplane plant.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
🌱

Plant Needs

☀️
Sunlight Bright indirect light preserves variegation; tolerates low light but may lose striping; avoid harsh midday direct sun
💧
Watering Water thoroughly when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
🌡️
Temperature Thrives at 18–24°C; protect from temperatures below 10°C to prevent leaf browning and stunting
🔍

Characteristics

  • Leaf: Long, linear, arching leaves with creamy-white central stripes and green margins
  • Stem: Slender, trailing runners (stolons) bearing tiny plantlets at nodes
  • Flower: Small, star-shaped white flowers arranged in loose racemes along mature runners
🛠️

Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed every 2 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent brown leaf tips and reduced variegation

Eggshell powder top-dressing:Crush dried, rinsed eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle a thin layer on soil surface and water in to boost soil calcium content without odor or pest risks
Pruning
  • Trim brown leaf tips with clean, sharp scissors to maintain neat appearance
  • Remove yellowing or damaged leaves to redirect energy to healthy growth
  • Pinch back overgrown runners to control plant size and encourage bushier foliage growth
⚠️

Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic; safe for cats with no reported toxic reactions

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or skin contact

📖

Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes air purification and low-maintenance resilience in indoor gardening communities

Usage: Air-purifying indoor foliage; hanging basket or tabletop ornamental plant