Spider Plant Care: The Easy Pet-Safe Starter Plant

Is the spider plant safe for pets?

Yes. The spider plant is safe for cats and dogs. It is my top pick for a first plant.

The ASPCA lists the spider plant as non-toxic to both. Its plant name is Chlorophytum comosum. I checked it before writing this guide.

So you can let this one trail off a shelf without worry. A swatted leaf will not hurt your pet.

One small note. Cats love to bat at the dangling “spiderettes.” The plant is safe, but a big chew can still cause a mild upset stomach. Hang it high and you skip that.

Spider plant care, made simple

Here is the best part. The spider plant is hard to kill. It forgives almost every mistake.

It wants three easy things: light, water, and a little room to grow.

Light

Give it bright, indirect light. A spot near a window is perfect. Keep it out of harsh, direct sun.

Too much sun can scorch the leaves. Too little, and the stripes fade. A bit of morning light is just right.

Water

Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Then let it drain well. Never leave the pot in a puddle.

Brown leaf tips? That is often the tap water. Spider plants can be picky about fluoride. Try filtered or rain water and the tips clear up.

Room to grow

This plant grows fast. When roots start to push up, move it to a bigger pot. It will reward you with more babies.

Free plants: how to grow the babies

Real talk: this is the fun part. A happy spider plant sends out long stems with little baby plants on the ends.

You can turn each baby into a whole new plant. Here is how:

• Snip a baby off the stem.
• Set it in a small cup of water.
• Wait for roots to grow, about one to two weeks.
• Plant it in soil. Done.

One plant can fill your home. Or give the babies to friends.

Where to put it with pets around

The spider plant is safe. But a hanging basket is still the smart move.

Hang it where your dog cannot reach and your cat cannot jump. This keeps those tempting babies out of paw range. The plant looks better up high anyway.

The bottom line

The spider plant is cheap, safe, and almost foolproof. If you are new to plants and you have pets, start here.

Want more safe greenery? The Boston fern and the calathea are two more pet-safe favorites. The spider plant also earns a spot on my list of air-purifying plants that are safe for pets.

Shopping around? Skip the snake plant, which is toxic to pets. And if your pet ever chews something odd, here are the signs to watch for.

Sources

• ASPCA — Spider Plant (non-toxic)
• ASPCA — Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant List for Cats

Written by Mo Ruman, a self-taught plant parent who cross-checks every plant against the ASPCA database. Not a vet — when in doubt, call your vet. More about Kijani Paws · Ask me about a plant.