Chlorophytum 'Curly'

A funky version of a classic beauty. The long, grass like, variegated leaves twist and turn, creating a tussled mass of foliage. Quick to grow and a cinch to care for.

A hard one to kill, this lasting plant will produce plenty of offsets to spread out or share with friends. It makes a superb option for hanging baskets and looks fabulous spilling from pots.

The leaves grow 10-40cm long and a centimetre or two across. From the centre of the plant, fleshy roots emerge on which small white flowers, then baby plants grow. If you allow these babies to come in contact with the soil they will send out roots and grow up big and strong. Alternatively you can leave them to hang and they will grow a little larger, they might even produce their own babies.

As well as being known as the Spider Plant, Chlorophytum are also known as Hen and Chickens, Walking Anthericum and Ribbon Plant. They hail from moist, coastal areas of South Africa.

SIZE (HxW): 20-60cm x 20-60cm

I SEE THE LIGHT: They grow best in a bright, indirect light – if you need a light to read by during the day in their position then it is too dark and you won’t get good colour in the leaves. If it is too bright their leaves will scorch.

I NEED A DRINK: Average. Water thoroughly, then allow the first 3cm of the soil to dry out before watering thoroughly again. If you live in a cold climate and don’t use consistent heating, they should be a little more on the dry side in winter – the hate being cold and wet. If you aren’t watering enough, the leaf tips will turn brown.

If you are running the heating throughout winter, don’t it will need a bit of extra humidity – you will know if this is the case as the leaf tips will brown. A pebble and water tray is ideal if you don’t have a humidifier. You might find you need this year round if you live in an apartment with heating/air con.

I WILL SURVIVE: As well as allowing the offsets to root onto soil, you can also divide them to increase their numbers. This is best done in spring. Remove browned leaves to tidy. Add a diluted, liquid fertiliser monthly in spring/summer. They don’t mind being pot bound so repot only when necessary.