One of the most recognizable varieties of spider plants, Chlorophytum comosum “Variegatum” is a tough, tolerant houseplant that even beginners can succeed with. This overview will explain how to cultivate a Chlorophytum comosum “Variegatum”.
What is a Chlorophytum Comosum “Variegatum”?
When discussing spider plants, it’s a Chlorophytum comosum “Variegatum” that usually comes to mind. While spider plants originated in South Africa’s tropical regions, commercial specimens are typically bred to produce variegated leaves. Chlorophytum comosum “Variegatum” is the most recognizable of these cultivars.
Appearance and Characteristics
The long, slender green fronds of a Chlorophytum comosum “Variegatum” have pale cream or white variegated stripes and can reach up to 18 inches in length. In total, these plants can grow up to 20 inches high and spread approximately 20 inches wide.
Quick Summary
Botanical Name: Chlorophytum comosum “Variegatum”
Native to: Southern Africa
Care: Easy
Size: Up to 20 inches high and 20 inches wide
Common Problems: Mealybugs, Spider mites, Overwatering
Toxicity: Non-toxic
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How to care for Chlorophytum Comosum “Variegatum”
Sunlight
“Variegatum” spider plants grow best when exposed to bright, indirect light. Places that get less intense sun in the morning and provide some shade during the afternoon, such as an east-facing room, are ideal.
If the plant isn’t exposed to sufficient light, its variegation can fade, while too much intense sun can burn the leaves.
Watering
“Variegatum” spider plants need slightly moist soil but can survive drier periods or missed waterings. If the top two or three inches of soil feel dry, let the plant have a drink. This shouldn’t be needed more than once a week except in exceptionally hot areas. Use filtered or distilled water that has reached room temperature.
Humidity & Temperature
Because it hails from a tropical climate, Chlorophytum comosum “Variegatum” performs best when given approximately 60% humidity. That said, these plants can still do well with standard house humidity as long as they’re misted every few days.
The humidity can also be bolstered through the use of a humidifier, pebble tray, or by placing the variegated spider plant in a steam-filled bathroom.
Temperatures ranging from 55ºF up to 80ºF (13 to 27ºC) work best for Chlorophytum comosum “Variegatum”. If these levels are allowed to fall below 50ºF (10ºC), the plant will assume that winter has arrived and will enter a dormant state.
Cleaning
Use a barely damp cloth to remove any dust that has collected on a Chlorophytum comosum “Variegatum”.
Fertilizing & Soil
The perfect soil for a “Variegatum” spider plant combines adequate nutrition with good drainage and aeration. This means a loose, neutral growing medium. A blend of normal houseplant compost with ingredients such as coconut coir, perlite, or sand meets these requirements.
Liquid fertilizer can be diluted and fed every two to four weeks while the plant is actively growing. This encourages bushy foliage and helps spiderettes to develop. Fertilizing should be avoided during the winter.
Repotting
Although they grow quite fast and reach their mature size in about a year, Chlorophytum comosum “Variegatum” only needs to be repotted every couple of years. These specimens actually like being a bit pot-bound and only really need a bigger pot once their roots start to push out from the drainage holes.
To help the plant acclimatize to its new pot, mix some of the old soil with a fresh load. Repotting works best in the springtime as this reduces the shock to the plant.
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How and When to Prune
The only real pruning needs for “Variegatum” spider plants consist of occasionally thinning out the plant or discarding unwanted plantlets. When trimming the fronds, choose the older ones and prune them right back to the top of the soil. To remove unwanted plantlets, snip the stem at the base.
Problems with Chlorophytum Comosum “Variegatum”
Mealybugs and spider mites
Both mealybugs and spider mites can stunt a plant’s growth by feasting on sap from the stems. Mealybugs leave behind a wax-like white substance underneath the fronds, while spider mites often cause spots of brown or yellow to appear on the leaves.
Mixing warm water with a small amount of neem oil as a spray removes them effectively. Always prune off any affected foliage as well.
Overwatering
Overwatering a “Variegatum” can cause root rot, which can be identified by squishy, smelly roots. Lift the plant out and cut these roots away before letting the soil dry out. Once the top few inches of soil have dried, reintroduce small doses of water.
How to Propagate
The small plantlets or spiderettes that emerge during the spring and summer are the easiest way to propagate a Chlorophytum comosum “Variegatum”. Each of these babies will quickly develop some leaves as well as root nodes underneath.
Choose which plantlets you want and cut them away from the main plant. Then place them in small pots with the root nodes buried just below the soil. These should develop into full roots within a month.
Common FAQs
How much light does a Chlorophytum comosum “Variegatum” need?
These plants need plenty of bright but indirect sunlight to retain their variegation. Insufficient light causes these stripes to gradually disappear.
What is so special about Chlorophytum comosum “Variegatum”?
Chlorophytum comosum “Variegatum” is special because it provides stunning, variegated foliage in a very low-maintenance package. This makes it great for almost any plant owner.
Are Chlorophytum comosum “Variegatum” good indoor plants?
“Variegatum” spider plants make excellent indoor plants because they’re hardy enough to endure conditions within a home. While they might need some effort to keep their humidity at a moderate level, this is extremely easy to do.
Can a Chlorophytum comosum “Variegatum” grow in low light?
Chlorophytum comosum “Variegatum” plants will lose their variegated patterns if they’re exposed to extremely low-light conditions. They really need bright, indirect sunlight to look their best.
Plant inspiration tip: check out the amazing Stromanthe stromatoide for more life in your home.
Summary
Known to most people as the quintessential spider plant, Chlorophytum comosum “Variegatum” are widespread and easy to find. They have very low-maintenance care requirements and provide dramatic arching fronds to any room. Just remember to give them plenty of indirect but bright sunlight.