Green Spider Plant
chlorophytum orchidastrum
Also known as: ["Green Spider Plant","Spider Plant"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen perennial with striking, dark green, lance-shaped leaves that arch gracefully from a central rosette.
Benefits & Perks
["air purifying","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Genus: | Chlorophytum |
| Botanical Name: | Chlorophytum orchidastrum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, humid room
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"16–27°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days if ambient humidity is low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with peat, perlite, and organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 1–2 months or when dead leaves appear.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing only dead or discolored foliage.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust for intensity in summer to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; avoid direct sun; place in east-facing windows for optimal indirect light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
bright indirect light, tolerates partial shade
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains in summer; avoid south-facing windows in peak sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and humidity.
Soil
well-draining, peat-based potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; refresh soil every 2 years.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid drafts or extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain stable conditions; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy stem cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove yellow or damaged leaves to maintain aesthetics and plant health; encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, or a clean knife.
Checklist
Inspect for dead leaves; use clean tools; cut close to the stem; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; promotes fresh soil and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky ingredients.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold), brown leaf tips (heat), or stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; insulate from drafts; reduce watering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown spots; growth may slow.
Solution: Increase humidity; provide shade; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicChlorophytum orchidastrum is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicChlorophytum orchidastrum is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicChlorophytum orchidastrum is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for ingestion, though it is not typically consumed as a food source.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Chlorophytum orchidastrum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Chlorophytum orchidastrum?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days.
Q: Does Chlorophytum orchidastrum purify air?
A: Yes, it is known to help filter indoor air pollutants.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light, tolerat |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
