Have you ever wondered if there are plants out there that resemble the beloved spider plant? Well, wonder no more! In this article, we will dive into the fascinating world of plants that look like spider plants, also known as Chlorophytum comosum.
As a botanist or plant scientist, it is crucial to accurately identify and classify different species based on their botanical characteristics and reproductive structures.
While the spider plant has distinct arching leaves with white stripes, we will explore other plants with similar features. From the Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) with its tall, sword-like leaves to the Peacock Plant (Calathea makoyana) adorned with beautifully patterned foliage, these lookalikes will captivate your attention.
We will provide detailed descriptions of each plant’s physical attributes and growth patterns and highlight any ongoing research or debates surrounding their identification. By including scientific evidence from published studies and research papers, we aim to present you with accurate information about these intriguing plants.
So join us on this journey of discovery as we unveil the wonders of plants that resemble spider plants. Get ready to be amazed by nature’s diversity and beauty!
The spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) is one of the most popular houseplants, and for good reason. Its attractive grass-like foliage, easy care requirements, and ability to thrive in low light make it an ideal choice for both beginner and expert indoor gardeners.
But if your home is already overflowing with spider plants, you may be looking for some alternative options that offer a similar look and feel. The good news is there are plenty of stunning plants out there that resemble the spider plant!
Here are 9 beautiful spider plant lookalikes to consider adding to your indoor plant collection
1. Dracaena
Dracaena is a genus of around 120 species of tropical shrubs and trees. Several popular houseplant varieties have long, arching foliage that closely mimics the spider plant.
Dracaena fragrans also known as corn plant is probably the most well-known. It has dark green leaves with yellow or white stripes running down the center. The plant grows upright at first, then produces shoots that arch gracefully as it matures.
Dracaena marginata (dragon tree) is another nice choice, with slender green leaves that give it an airy, delicate look. And Dracaena reflexa has slender green leaves that curve outward and downward.
2. Pandanus
Known as screw pine or spiral ginger, pandanus makes an exotic spider plant substitute. Pandanus veitchii is a smaller variety that works well as a houseplant, producing spiraled, strap-shaped leaves in shades of green.
Pandanus amaryllifolius has leaves with white edges, similar to the variegated spider plant. And Pandanus baptistii has creamy yellow stripes that mimic a reverse variegated spider plant.
3. Air Plants
Air plants are epiphytes that grow without soil, attaching themselves to trees, rocks and other surfaces. Both spider plants and air plants have wild, tangled foliage, making air plants ideal spider plant doppelgangers.
Some air plants that resemble spider plants include Tillandsia ionantha with its spiraling leaves and Tillandsia fasciculate which has soft green foliage that spikes outward from the base.
4. Carex
With over 2,000 species, Carex offers endless options for grassy-looking plants reminiscent of the spider plant. Japanese sedge (Carex morrowii) has pointed, deep green leaves striped in creamy white. And evergold sedge (Carex oshimensis) has golden yellow centers and green edges.
For solid green color, try green sedge (Carex chlorantha) or variegated Japanese sedge (Carex morrowii ‘Variegata’). Most Carex stay under 1 foot tall, making them perfect spider plant alternatives.
5. White Lilyturf
Also called variegated mondo grass or ophiopogon jaburan, the white lilyturf plant has bright white and green striped leaves that drape gracefully. It stays shorter like a spider plant, reaching about 1 foot tall and wide.
White lilyturf thrives in part sun to full shade and appreciates weekly watering. It spreads slowly and makes a lush groundcover indoors or out.
6. Succulents
Certain succulents resemble the spider plant’s long leaves and fullness. Haworthia attenuata, also called zebra plant, has chunky green and white striped leaves that radiate out like a spider plant. Small varieties of aloe vera also mimic the spider plant’s look.
Similarly, echeveria ‘Afterglow’ has ruffled, pointed foliage forming a loose rosette shape. Hens and chicks (echeveria) and burro’s tail (sedum morganianum) both produce offsets like the spider plant as well.
7. Bromeliads
Some bromeliads share a similar vibe to spider plants, with long, spiky leaves radiating outward. Guzmania lingulata is a popular indoor variety with bright orange bracts that resemble the orange spider plant (Chlorophytum orchidastrum).
Other good choices include Vriesea splendens with its sword-like foliage and Neoregelia hybrids like ‘Fireball’ and ‘Wild Tiger’ with colorful center growth. Most bromeliads grow 1 to 3 feet tall.
8. Ornamental Grasses
Slender, arching leaves are characteristic of many ornamental grasses, just like the spider plant. Good spider plant lookalikes include zebra grass (Miscanthus sinensis ‘Zebrinus’) with its yellow bands across the blades and Japanese silver grass (Miscanthus sinensis ‘Purpurascens’) in a striking reddish-purple hue.
Variegated Japanese forest grass (Hakonechloa macra ‘Aureola’) is another flowing grass that stays compact at 1 foot tall. Most ornamental grasses do best with at least some sun.
9. Asparagus Fern
This plant is not a true fern at all, but rather a member of the asparagus family. Asparagus setaceus has lacy green foliage that drapes gracefully from long stems, bearing close resemblance to a spider plant. Its arching stems grow up to 3 feet long.
For a different look, asparagus plumosus has slender leaves just like spider plant, but they emerge from a single main stem rather than the base rosette. It’s perfect for hanging baskets.
Growing Tips for Spider Plant Alternatives
Many plants that look like spider plants also share a similar easygoing nature and care requirements. Here are some general tips for growing these spider plant doppelgangers successfully:
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Most prefer bright, indirect sunlight rather than full sun. An east or west-facing window is ideal.
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Allow the soil to dry out some between waterings. Take care not to overwater, as soggy soil can cause root rot.
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Well-draining potting mix amended with perlite or bark is recommended. Add moisture-retaining peat moss for plants that like more humidity.
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Fertilize lightly in spring and summer with a balanced houseplant fertilizer. Dilute to half strength.
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Repot when roots fill the container or plant becomes top heavy. Choose a pot only slightly larger.
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Remove faded foliage and trim off wayward stems to maintain an attractive shape.
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Propagate by dividing rhizomes or plantlets when repotting to make more plants.
With proper care, these spider plant lookalikes will grow lush and vibrant in your indoor garden. Their graceful, cascading foliage brings incredible texture and visual interest.
Try combining a few different varieties for a full, flowing look reminiscent of spider plants but with added diversity. Your inner plant lover will appreciate these stunning spider plant alternatives.
Requires Bright, Indirect Light
Indoor plants with vibrant foliage colors thrive best when exposed to bright, indirect light. These plants have specialized pigments in their leaves that require sufficient light to produce and maintain their striking hues. To ensure the health and vitality of these colorful indoor plants, it’s crucial to provide them with the right amount of light.
Propagation techniques for these types of plants vary depending on the species. Some can be propagated through stem cuttings or division, while others may require specific methods such as air layering or seed propagation.
Regarding ideal indoor temperature, most vibrant foliage plants prefer temperatures between 65 and 75°F (18 and 24°C). However, some species are more tolerant of cooler or warmer temperatures.
Observations show that while spider plants have arching leaves with white stripes down the center, other plants bear a resemblance to spider plants but possess different leaf patterns or colors. One such plant is the ti plant (cordyline fruticosa), known for its long, sword-shaped leaves in various shades of green, red, purple, or pink.
Transition: Now let’s explore the unique characteristics and features of the ti plant (Ccordyline fruticosa).
Peacock Plant (Calathea makoyana)
Peacock Plant (Calathea makoyana)
Now let’s explore another plant resembling the spider plant: the Peacock Plant, scientifically known as Calathea makoyana.
This tropical beauty is native to the rainforests of Brazil and features large, broad leaves with intricate patterns resembling peacock feathers. The Peacock Plant is a member of the Marantaceae family and belongs to the prayer plant group, which means its leaves fold up at night.
Propagation methods for this plant include division and stem cuttings, and it thrives in bright indirect light with high humidity levels. To care for your Peacock Plant, ensure it receives regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Mist the leaves occasionally to increase humidity levels.
While similar in appearance to spider plants with their striking foliage, Peacock Plants differ in terms of growth pattern and habitat preferences. Ongoing research highlights these subtle distinctions and further contributes to our understanding of these captivating plants.
Transitioning into our next section about the cast iron plant (Aspidistra elatior)…
15 SPIDER PLANT SPECIES | HERB STORIES
FAQ
What plant is similar to a spider plant?
- Dracaena trifasciata (Snake Plant) : While not identical, snake plants have long, upright leaves that can resemble the foliage of a spider plant, especially the variegated varieties.
- Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata)
- Chlorophytum bichetii
- Aspidistra elatior (Cast Iron Plant)
- Zamioculcas zamiifolia (ZZ Plant)
What is the name of the plant that looks like a spider plant?
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.
What is the difference between a Dracaena and a spider plant?
Spider Plant: Compact, cascading leaves, produces offshoots. Dracaena: Upright, structured growth, various species with different leaf colors and shapes.
Which is better, snake plant or spider plant?
Snake plants are great but you can’t treat them like regular house plants. Your spider plant on the other hand will need water at least once a week. They like to be watered from the bottom, just set them in a deep bowl of water…