Spider Plant in 8″ Pot

A clump-forming, rhizomatous, evergreen perennial with a strappy, grass-like habit. Mature size 0.3–0.6 m (1–2 ft) tall and 0.5–0.9 m (2–3 ft) wide; spreads slowly by creeping rhizomes to fill about 0.6–0.9 m (2–3 ft) across. Leaves are linear, sword-shaped, keeled, 30–80 cm (12–30 in) long and 1.5–4 cm wide, with finely toothed margins; the ‘Variegata’ foliage is dark to mid-green with bold creamy-white longitudinal stripes (often white margins and central green band), giving a bright, architectural look year-round. Growth form is a dense fan of leaves from the base; underground rhizome is thick and horizontal. In spring–early summer, wiry flowering stems rise 0.5–1.5 m above the foliage bearing loose panicles of small, starry blue to lavender flowers (1–1.5 cm) with prominent yellow stamens; these may be followed by glossy, metallic steely-blue to violet berries ∼1 cm diameter (fruiting is less reliable in ‘Variegata’ than the green species).

Quick care: best in part shade to dappled shade; tolerates full sun in cool coastal areas but leaf scorch can occur in hot inland sun—light shade gives best variegation. Hardy USDA 8–11 (hardy to ~–7 °C/20 °F; in zone 8 may die back in winter but regrows from roots). Soil: average to rich, moist but well-drained loam, sandy or clay—adaptable; avoid waterlogging. Water regularly until established, then moderate; drought-tolerant once established but looks best with occasional deep watering in prolonged dry spells. Prefers regular moisture in shade. Feed lightly in spring with balanced or acid-loving fertilizer; not heavy feeder. Low maintenance: remove older tatty leaves, divide clumps every 3–5 years in cooler months to rejuvenate. Generally pest-free; may get powdery mildew or leaf spot but rarely fatal; deer-resistant. Excellent for mass planting, borders, under trees, containers, erosion control, woodland and water-wise gardens. Note: berries of the species are considered toxic to people (not edible).