Chlorophytum comosum facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Chlorophytum comosum |
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| Chlorophytum comosum 'Variegatum' | |
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Chlorophytum
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C. comosum
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| Chlorophytum comosum (Thunberg) Jacques
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The Spider Plant, also known as Chlorophytum comosum, is a very popular houseplant. It comes from South Africa. People love it because it's super easy to grow and care for.
Spider plants have long, thin leaves. These leaves are usually 20–40 cm (8–15 inches) long. They grow out from the center of the plant, like a star. The plant also grows long stems called stolons. Small white flowers and tiny baby plants, called plantlets, grow on these stems.
The most common type of spider plant has variegated leaves. This means the leaves have different colors. The 'Variegatum' type has yellowish-white stripes along each leaf. You can also find spider plants that are completely green.
Why Spider Plants Are Awesome
Spider plants are great for beginners. They are very easy to take care of. They don't need much fuss. They are also known to help clean the air inside your home. They can reduce some indoor air pollution.
How to Grow New Spider Plants
It's very simple to make new spider plants from an existing one. This is called propagation.
- Using Plantlets: The easiest way is to use the small baby plants (plantlets) that grow on the long stems.
- Gently remove a plantlet from the stem.
- You can put the plantlet in a glass of water. It will grow roots quickly.
- Or, you can plant it directly into damp, well-drained soil. It might grow roots faster if it's still attached to the parent plant for a few days.
- To help it stay in the soil, you can use a bent paper clip to hold the plantlet down.
- After about 7 to 10 days, the new plantlet should have roots. Then you can cut it free from the parent plant.
Images for kids
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Flower of Chlorophytum comosum 'Vittatum'
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Fleshy roots of pot-grown Chlorophytum comosum
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Chlorophytum comosum 'Variegatum' in a hanging basket showing the plantlets
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A photograph of a spider plant's plantlets and budding flowers
See also
In Spanish: Cinta para niños
