The spider plant, also known as Chlorophytum comosum, is a popular houseplant admired for its graceful cascading foliage. But did you know that under ideal conditions the spider plant can grow exceptionally large? Let’s take a look at the biology and care of these plants to understand what makes the giant varieties so spectacular.
Overview of the Spider Plant
Native to tropical and subtropical Africa, the spider plant is characterized by long, arching leaves that emerge from a central rosette. The leaves are generally green with white variegation, though solid green or yellow varieties also exist. As a member of the asparagus family, the spider plant contains tuberous roots and produces small white flowers on long stalks, followed by plantlets that are capable of rooting to create new plants.
In typical houseplant size spider plants reach 1-2 feet tall and wide. However given adequate space and optimal care, they have the potential to grow much larger.
Ideal Growing Conditions
To maximize growth, spider plants appreciate abundant light A sunroom, conservatory, or location next to a bright window provides suitable lighting Warm temperatures between 60-80°F are ideal. Higher humidity is beneficial but not essential.
Rich, well-draining potting mix supports proper establishment and nutrition delivery. An ample container size allows the root system to expand freely. Frequent fertilization during the growing period encourages lush, vigorous growth.
World Records and Giant Varieties
According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the largest spider plant grew to an incredible 12 feet wide in Copenhagen, Denmark in 1977. While not officially confirmed, even larger plants have been documented by reputable horticulturists and growers.
Specific giant spider plant cultivars have been carefully bred for their massive size potential. ‘Gigantea’ and ‘Jumbomonster’ are two popular varieties known for becoming exceptionally large over time. With meticulous care, they can reach astonishing widths of 15 feet or more!
Caring for Oversized Specimens
Caring for giant spider plants presents some unique challenges. A heavy pot is needed to support the extensive plant. Alternatively, the trailing stems can be trained along beams or trellises.
Due to the size, moving and repotting large plants can be difficult. Division should be avoided to maintain an uninterrupted root structure. Careful watering and fertilization is required to nourish the entire plant.
Pruning old foliage keeps the plant looking tidy. Supporting the heavy leaves prevents breakage. Monitoring for pests and diseases is also essential for such a substantial investment.
Displaying Massive Spider Plants
The giant trailing stems of mature spider plants make them ideal statement pieces. Displaying them as the focal point of a conservatory or sunroom allows the plant to become an architectural feature. The stems can be guided along beams, poles, or trellises to highlight the dangling plantlets.
Outdoors, massive spider plants thrive on patios, in planted beds, or spilling from balcony railings during warm months. Their huge, cascading presence makes them stand out in any setting. Container grown plants must be moved indoors before frost.
For commercial settings like malls, office lobbies, or greenhouses, oversized spider plants make an instantly recognizable living decoration sure to draw attention and admiration. Their exotic, tropical allure thrives with abundant light and space.
Propagating and Sharing Giant Varieties
Once a giant spider plant reaches maturity, its many plantlets provide opportunities for propagation. The baby plantlets can simply be removed and potted up into new containers. This allows the unique genetics and growth tendencies to be preserved and shared.
Gifting or selling rooted spider plant divisions is a great way to spread these fabulous giant varieties with other plant lovers. The offspring plants will exhibit the rapid growth and enormous capabilities of the parent plant. With the proper care, they can continue growing into specimens of epic proportions.
Final Thoughts
When given room to flourish, spider plants can attain incredible dimensions not typically seen in indoor houseplants. Seeking out specialized giant cultivars and providing ideal growing conditions allows them to reach record-setting widths. For devotees of unusual and statement making botanicals, nurturing the world’s largest spider plant is an exciting endeavor like no other!
MY HUGE SPIDER PLANT URSULA!!
FAQ
What is the largest spider ever found in the world?
What is the lifespan of a spider plant?
What to do with giant spider plants?
What is the largest spider in the world?
The largest spider on our list, the giant huntsman can have a leg span of up to 30cm. The species is mostly found in Laos, and is thought to mostly live in caves. Read more: Are giant house spiders getting bigger?
What is the largest spider in the Middle East?
However, the Cerbalus aravaensis is the largest spider found in the Middle East. This spider is nocturnal and hunts its prey, which includes insects, rodents, and small lizards, during the night. It’s an important part of the ecosystem, helping to control the population of these creatures.
Is Cerbalus aravaensis the biggest spider in the world?
Despite its intimidating size, with a leg span of up to 5.5 inches, it is not one of the biggest spiders in the world. However, the Cerbalus aravaensis is the largest spider found in the Middle East. This spider is nocturnal and hunts its prey, which includes insects, rodents, and small lizards, during the night.
What is the largest tarantula spider in Africa?
Its calm demeanor and beauty make it a favorite among tarantula enthusiasts. The Hercules baboon spider (Hysterocrates hercules) is one of Africa’s largest spider species, though it is extremely rare and seldom seen. Originally discovered in Nigeria, it can reach leg spans of up to 8 inches, making it one of the largest baboon spiders.
Which spider is the most venomous?
From the 12-inch Goliath birdeater, which stakes claim as the largest spider, to the Brazilian wandering spider, which has been deemed the most venomous, get the facts about these creepy crawly species and find out exactly where they live. Then, you can plan your vacation accordingly.
Is Hartwegia a spider plant?
Hartwegia comosa (Thunb.) Nees Chlorophytum comosum, usually called spider plant or common spider plant due to its spider-like look, also known as spider ivy, airplane plant, ribbon plant (a name it shares with Dracaena sanderiana), and hen and chickens, is a species of evergreen perennial flowering plant of the family Asparagaceae.