The curly spider plant, known by the cultivar name ‘Bonnie,’ is a resilient houseplant prized for its distinctive, spiraled foliage. This unique variety of Chlorophytum comosum features leaves that arch and curl, offering a playful texture that differs from the straight-leaved species. The plant is also known for its air-purifying qualities, making it a functional addition to any indoor space. Its compact size and forgiving nature make the ‘Bonnie’ spider plant suitable for both new and experienced plant enthusiasts.
Illumination and Hydration
Bright, indirect light ensures the ‘Bonnie’ spider plant maintains its signature curl and vibrant variegation. Placement near an east or north-facing window is ideal, offering gentle morning light or consistent brightness without harsh afternoon sun. Insufficient light levels cause leaves to straighten and white stripes to fade. Conversely, direct, intense sunlight quickly scorches the foliage, resulting in brown spots.
Use a soak and dry watering method to prevent root issues. Allow the top inch or two of the potting mix to dry out completely before watering again. Thoroughly saturate the soil until water flows freely through the drainage holes, moistening the entire root ball. Allowing the pot to sit in drained water encourages root rot.
Soil, Nutrients, and Environment
A standard, well-draining houseplant potting mix is appropriate, often benefiting from added perlite or bark to enhance aeration. The plant’s fleshy roots store water and nutrients, and they prefer to be slightly restricted. Repotting is only necessary when the plant is visibly root-bound, usually every one to two years. The new container should only be one size larger than the previous one.
Spider plants are not heavy feeders, storing reserves in their tubers, meaning they require limited supplemental nutrients. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, once a month during the active growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter when growth slows, as this can lead to a buildup of mineral salts.
The ‘Bonnie’ spider plant thrives in average indoor temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 80°F. While it tolerates typical home humidity, it prefers a moderate environment (40% to 60%). Avoid placing the plant near heating or cooling vents, as sudden temperature fluctuations and dry drafts stress the foliage.
Maintenance and Multiplication
Brown tips on the leaves are a common cosmetic issue, frequently caused by mineral buildup from tap water (fluoride and chlorine). Minimize this issue by using distilled water, rainwater, or allowing tap water to sit out overnight. Prune by removing these brown tips with clean scissors, cutting along the natural curve of the leaf to maintain a tidy appearance.
Spider plants produce small, miniature plants called “spiderettes” or “pups” on long, arching stems (stolons), making multiplication simple. These plantlets are easily propagated once they develop aerial roots and a few leaves. There are two primary methods for propagation:
- Cut the spiderette from the mother plant and root it in a glass of water until the roots are about an inch long before planting in soil.
- Pin the plantlet directly onto a pot of moist soil while still attached to the mother plant, severing it once its own root system is established.