Spider Plant Colors: An Overview of Popular Varieties

The spider plant, or Chlorophytum comosum, is a popular houseplant recognized for its arching leaves and resilient nature. While many are familiar with the common green and white varieties, a surprising diversity in coloration and leaf patterns exists. Exploring these different color variations reveals a broader palette, offering options for various aesthetic preferences and indoor settings.

Common Spider Plant Variegation Patterns

To appreciate the different spider plant varieties, it helps to understand variegation, which is the appearance of different colored zones on the leaves. In spider plants, this is expressed as stripes, with the two most frequent patterns being standard and reverse variegation.

Standard variegation describes leaves with a green center and margins of a different color, like white, cream, or yellow. This pattern places the lighter coloration on the outside of the leaf, framing the darker green center.

Reverse variegation is the opposite, where the center of the leaf has a prominent white or cream stripe, and the margins are green. This pattern draws the eye toward the middle of each leaf. In addition to these striped patterns, some varieties have solid green leaves, representing the non-variegated original form of the plant. Some cultivars also exhibit these color patterns on leaves that are distinctly curly or twisted.

Popular Spider Plant Varieties by Color

The diverse color patterns in spider plants are showcased in several popular cultivars. These varieties range from classic striped forms to those with solid or uniquely textured foliage, allowing for an informed selection for your home.

‘Vittatum’

‘Vittatum’ is a classic spider plant that displays a reverse variegation pattern. Its leaves feature a broad, creamy-white stripe down the center, framed by dark green margins. This variety’s cascading foliage makes it well-suited for hanging baskets.

‘Variegatum’

Frequently confused with ‘Vittatum’, the ‘Variegatum’ cultivar has standard variegation. Its leaves have a green center, and the margins are edged in crisp white. ‘Variegatum’ is a popular choice for its bright appearance and is often used in containers or as a tabletop plant.

‘Bonnie’

The ‘Bonnie’ spider plant is distinguished by its unique form. It shares the reverse variegation pattern of ‘Vittatum’, with green-edged leaves and a creamy-white center, but its foliage is distinctly curly and compact. The leaves spiral and twist, creating a dense appearance that makes ‘Bonnie’ an excellent choice for smaller spaces.

‘Zebra Plant’

The ‘Zebra Plant’ features standard variegation similar to ‘Variegatum’, but with a notable color difference. The margins of its green leaves are a vibrant yellow instead of white, which may fade as the leaf ages. It tends to have a slightly shorter and wider growth habit than some other varieties.

‘Hawaiian’

The ‘Hawaiian’ spider plant offers a dynamic color display. New leaves emerge with a golden or light green hue at the base and center, which fades to the traditional green and white variegation as the leaf matures. This creates a multi-toned effect, with both new and old patterns visible on the plant at the same time.

Solid Green

The original, non-variegated Chlorophytum comosum features lush, solid green leaves that are slender and arching. Without variegation, the focus shifts to the plant’s form and rich color. This variety is known for being vigorous and is a great choice for those who prefer a classic, verdant look.

The Unique Case of the Mandarin Plant

The Mandarin Plant is often found in searches for colorful spider plants and requires clarification. While a relative, it is not a variety of Chlorophytum comosum. Its botanical name is Chlorophytum amaniense, also known as ‘Fire Flash’.

The most prominent feature of the Mandarin Plant is not its leaves, but its petioles, which are the stalks that connect the leaves to the plant’s base. These petioles are a vibrant, glowing orange, creating a stunning contrast with the plant’s dark, glossy green leaves. When viewed from above, the effect is subtle, but from the side, the orange center seems to radiate warmth. This plant does not produce the same cascading plantlets as true spider plants, but its unique coloration makes it a sought-after houseplant.

Factors That Influence Color Vibrancy

The intensity of a spider plant’s variegation is not fixed and can be influenced by its growing conditions. Providing the right environment will help the plant display its most vibrant colors.

Light is the most significant factor affecting color vibrancy. Spider plants thrive in bright, indirect light to maintain strong variegation. If a variegated spider plant is kept in a low-light environment, the colorful stripes may fade as the plant produces more chlorophyll to compensate. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, especially the lighter-colored portions.

The quality of water can also impact the plant’s appearance. Tap water often contains chemicals like fluoride and chlorine, which can accumulate in the soil and leaf tissues. This buildup can lead to brown tips on the leaves. If you notice persistent brown tips despite proper watering, switching to filtered or distilled water may help prevent further damage.

A plant’s general health is directly connected to its appearance. Stress from overwatering, underwatering, or improper fertilization can lead to dull or discolored foliage. Ensuring the plant has well-draining soil and is not left sitting in water helps prevent root rot, which also affects leaf color.