| Key Takeaways |
|---|
| 1. Curly Spider Plant ‘Bonnie’ is a delightful houseplant that is native to Africa and is a member of the Asparagaceae (Asparagus) plant family. |
| 2. The ideal lighting conditions for the Curly Spider Plant ‘Bonnie’ are bright indirect light, up to about 2-3 hours of direct sun. |
| 3. Spider plants prefer an evenly moist potting mix so try not to allow the potting mix to dry out completely. |
| 4. A potting mix of 3 parts all-purpose mix plus 1 part perlite is a great blend for this plant. |
| 5. Over-fertilizing can result in the plant producing less plantlets. |
If you’re looking for a twist (literally) on the common spider plant, then Chlorophytum comosum ‘Bonnie’ is for you! Commonly known as the Curly Spider Plant, this plant comes in both plain green as well as a variegated form with a white stripe through each leaf center. It is smaller than most spider plants, but the care is identical.
Table of Contents
The Curly Spider Plant ‘Bonnie’ is a delightful houseplant that is native to Africa and is a member of the Asparagaceae (Asparagus) plant family. It is smaller than most spider plants, but the care is identical. This plant comes in both plain green as well as a variegated form with a white stripe through each leaf center.
Care Tips
Here are some tips for taking care of your Curly Spider Plant:
Light and Temperature
Although this plant tolerates lower light, the variegation in ‘Bonnie’ will be more pronounced with appropriate light. In lower light, the growth will be slower and it may even lose its stripes. You don’t necessarily want or need to have this plant in full sun all day, but situate this plant right in front of a window for best results. Anywhere from 100% bright indirect light, up to about 2-3 hours of direct sun will work beautifully for spider plants. As far as temperature goes, they do like it on the warmer end. Avoid minimum temperatures below 55°F (13°C).
Watering
Spider plants prefer an evenly moist potting mix so try not to allow the potting mix to dry out completely. Doing so repeatedly will result in a very ratty looking plant. The ideal case would be to allow the top quarter or so of the potting mix to dry out. Simply use your finger to test the moisture. Be aware that the drier the potting mix gets, the curlier the leaves will be! This can also serve as an indication of when to water, but you should still feel the potting mix to be sure.
Soil and Repotting
A potting mix of 3 parts all-purpose mix plus 1 part perlite is a great blend for this plant. Under decent conditions, spider plants are rapid growers and will soon require repotting as they will tend to quickly fill the pot with their fleshy roots. Repotting is best done during active growth, which in most cases would be Spring and Summer time. Always use a pot with a drainage hole!
Fertilizing
Over-fertilizing can result in the plant producing less plantlets. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly during active growth.
Common Problems and Solutions
Here are some common problems that may arise when caring for the Curly Spider Plant ‘Bonnie’ and their solutions:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Brown tips on leaves | This is usually caused by over-fertilizing or underwatering. Adjust your watering and fertilizing schedule accordingly. |
| Yellow leaves | This is usually caused by overwatering or underwatering. Adjust your watering schedule accordingly. |
| Root rot | This is usually caused by overwatering. Allow the potting mix to dry out between waterings and ensure that the pot has proper drainage. |
Propagation
Here are some methods of propagating the Curly Spider Plant ‘Bonnie’:
- Plantlets: Spider plants produce plantlets that can be easily propagated. Simply cut the plantlet off the mother plant and place it in a pot with fresh potting mix.
Conclusion
The Curly Spider Plant ‘Bonnie’ is a delightful houseplant that is easy to care for and adds a unique twist to the common spider plant. With the right lighting, watering, and fertilizing, your Curly Spider Plant ‘Bonnie’ will thrive and produce beautiful foliage. If you’re looking for a new houseplant to add to your collection, consider the Curly Spider Plant ‘Bonnie’. I hope this article has been helpful to you! If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. Happy gardening!
