Chlorophytum comosum ‘Variegatum’, commonly known as the Variegated Spider Plant, is one of the most beloved and enduring houseplants worldwide. Belonging to the Asparagaceae family and native to the tropical and subtropical regions of South Africa, this variety is prized for its arching, striped foliage and easy-going temperament.

The leaves form a graceful rosette and feature a fresh green centre edged with creamy-white margins. Each strap-like leaf is long, narrow, and slightly curved, giving the plant its fountain-like shape. Mature plants send out trailing stems that produce clusters of small white flowers followed by baby plantlets (offsets), which can easily be propagated.

Compact, adaptable, and visually elegant, Chlorophytum comosum ‘Variegatum’ adds brightness and movement to any room and looks especially striking in hanging baskets or elevated pots where its runners can cascade freely.

Chlorophytum comosum ‘Variegatum’ – Care Guide

Light

Thrives in bright, indirect light. Tolerates medium to low light, but bright conditions help maintain strong variegation. Avoid harsh direct sunlight, which may scorch the white edges.

Watering

Keep the soil lightly moist in spring and summer, watering when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry. Ensure the pot has good drainage, as spider plants dislike sitting in water. Reduce watering in winter.

Temperature and Humidity

• Temperature: Prefers 18–26°C. Avoid cold draughts and temperatures below 10°C.

• Humidity: Adapts well to normal indoor humidity but appreciates occasional misting during dry periods.

Soil and Potting

Use a free-draining, all-purpose peat-free compost. Spider plants grow quickly and may become root-bound; repot every 1–2 years in spring to maintain healthy growth.

Feeding

Feed every 2–3 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertiliser. No feeding is necessary in winter.

Pruning and Maintenance

Remove any brown leaf tips or damaged leaves using clean scissors. Cut back runners to control spread, or leave them to trail for a fuller, cascading look. Baby plantlets can easily be rooted in water or soil to create new plants.

Growth and Maturity

A fast-growing and resilient houseplant, Chlorophytum comosum ‘Variegatum’ typically grows 30–45 cm tall with runners that can extend up to a metre.

Common Issues

• Brown leaf tips: Caused by tap water (fluoride/salts), low humidity, or over-fertilisation. Use rainwater or filtered water where possible.

• Yellowing leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.

• Pests: Rare, but may occasionally attract mealybugs or aphids.

Background and Benefits

The Variegated Spider Plant has been a household favourite for decades due to its striking good looks and effortless care. It’s also one of the best plants for improving indoor air quality, as confirmed by NASA’s Clean Air Study. With its cheerful striped leaves and cascading growth, it brings life and freshness to any home or workspace.

✅ Quick Care Summary

• Light: Bright, indirect; tolerates medium to low

• Water: Lightly moist; allow topsoil to dry slightly

• Temperature: 18–26°C; avoid below 10°C

• Humidity: Average indoor; mist occasionally

• Soil: Free-draining, peat-free compost

• Feed: Every 2–3 weeks in spring/summer

• Growth: Fast-growing rosette, 30–45 cm; arching green leaves with creamy-white edges; trailing runners with baby plantlets