Variegated Spider Plant Is Not Toxic To Humans (2024)

Variegated spider plant
  1. Non-toxic to humans: Safe for adults, children, and pets.
  2. Mild risk, not an emergency: Ingestion is not recommended but not harmful.
  3. Elevate and educate: Keep plants out of reach and teach kids plant safety.

Assessing Variegated Spider Plant's Toxicity

🌿 Scientific Evidence on Toxicity

The variegated spider plant, known scientifically as Chlorophytum comosum ‘Vittatum’, is often celebrated for its air-purifying qualities, but what about its toxicity to humans? Despite some confusion, scientific consensus holds that spider plants are non-toxic to humans. This includes both the green and variegated varieties. While some houseplants do come with a risk of toxicity, the spider plant isn't one of them.

🚫 Debunking Myths

Let's cut through the noise. Unlike the infamous Pothos or the sneaky Swedish Ivy, the spider plant doesn't pack a toxic punch. No need for gloves or a post-gardening scrub-down; handling this plant is as safe as scrolling through your phone. Accidental ingestion, while not recommended as a dietary supplement, isn't a ticket to the emergency room. It's important to note, though, that while spider plants are safe, they should not be confused with similar-looking plants that may be toxic.

🚷 Actual Risks

So, what are the actual risks? They're pretty much non-existent for humans. However, if you're a cat owner, you might notice your feline friend taking an unusual interest in the dangling leaves. While not toxic, spider plants can cause a mild, non-harmful hallucinogenic effect in cats. For humans, the biggest risk is overwatering and watching your beloved plant succumb to root rot. Now that's a real tragedy.

🌱 The Bottom Line

In the jungle of misinformation, the variegated spider plant stands tall and safe. It's a green thumbs-up for human health. Keep it out of your salad bowl, and you'll coexist with this leafy friend just fine.

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Creating a Safe Environment for Children and Babies

🚫 Preventing Accidental Ingestion

Elevation is key. Keep your variegated spider plants on high shelves or in rooms that are less frequented by your mini-me's. It's like childproofing, but for flora.

Lock it down. Any plant with even a whisper of toxicity should be treated like cleaning supplies—out of reach and out of mind for the little ones.

📚 Educating the Young Ones

Start young. Teach them that plants are more eye candy than actual candy. Reinforce this as they grow, like a mantra: "Look, don't lick."

Role-play. It might feel silly, but practice scenarios where they should reject the advances of unknown greenery. It's like a fire drill, but for plant safety.

👀 Supervision: The Ultimate Safety Net

Always watchful. Keep an eye on them, because kids have a knack for eating things they shouldn't. It's like they have a built-in radar for the forbidden.

Immediate action. If they do manage to munch on a leaf, remove it, offer water, and watch for any signs of discomfort. Better safe than sorry, right?

🌱 Safe Gardening Practices

Model behavior. If you're gardening with kids, show them how it's done—gloves on, hands washed, no exceptions. Make it as routine as discussing not talking to strangers.

Know your plants. Be aware of what's in your garden. If it's got a bad rep, fence it off or bid it farewell until the kids can understand that not all plants play nice.

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Ensure your variegated spider plants are safe and sound 🛡️ for the whole family with Greg's precise watering reminders, preventing overwatering and promoting a healthy, non-toxic indoor oasis.

#VariegatedSpiderPlant

8 posts on Greg
  • What do I do with the babies? #VariegatedSpiderPlant This is an older pic of Baesil, he's had about four babies just fall off. What do I do with them?? I've set them aside for now, but do i just replant them? Put them in water? Was not expecting this so soon!

  • Variegated Spider Plant Is Not Toxic To Humans (5)

    I got into work today after helping at a different location for a couple days and Addy flowered!!!! the flowers are so pretty!!! #spiderplant #vareigstedspiderplant #floweringplant #happyplant

  • Variegated Spider Plant Is Not Toxic To Humans (6)

    Been absent on here and most social media for most of the week, but I'm back! Here's a little update on Addy!! Her babies are growing like crazy! She's actually made from 3 individual plants, and each one is producing a stem with spiderettes!!! #spiderplant #spiderplantbabies

  • Variegated Spider Plant Is Not Toxic To Humans (7)

    SpiderPlant My Spiderplant at work has this growing out of it. Are they flower buds? I'm not concerned, just never seen it do this before #spiderplant #airplaneplant #plantsmakepeoplehappy #happyplants #plantaddict

  • Variegated Spider Plant Is Not Toxic To Humans (8)

    Send help 🙃 I had a sneaking suspicion that my big spider plant was due for a repot, and therefore, I've been procrastinating on it. Turns out, I was right 🫠😵‍💫Do I cut the roots, or even attempt to untangle and pull through? #plantsmakepeoplehappy #happyplants #plantaddict #newgrowth #rootp*rn #spiderplant

Browse #VariegatedSpiderPlant

Learn More About
Variegated Spider Plant Care

  • 🪴 Soil
  • 🍂 Black Spots on Leaves
  • ✂️ Pruning
  • 🌟 Benefits
  • 🌡️ Temperature
  • 🍂 Leaves Mushy
  • 🍂 Brown Spots on Leaves
  • 🌞 Direct Sunlight
  • 🌤️ Light Requirements
  • 🤒 Root Rot
  • 💨 Humidity
  • 💦 How Often to Water
  • 🌸 Flower
  • 🪴 Repotting
  • 🐞 Bugs
  • 🍃 Leaves Drooping
  • 🍃 Leaves Dropping
  • 🍃 Leaves Falling Over
  • 🍂 Yellow Leaves
  • 🤔 Problems
Variegated Spider Plant Is Not Toxic To Humans (2024)

FAQs

Variegated Spider Plant Is Not Toxic To Humans? ›

Scientific research confirms the Spider Plant 'Variegatum' (Chlorophytum comosum) is non-toxic to humans. This green companion is often mistaken for a botanical bad boy, but in reality, it's as harmless as a week-old bagel. No records exist of it causing harm to humans, which is a sigh of relief for plant lovers.

Are variegated spider plants poisonous? ›

Despite some confusion, scientific consensus holds that spider plants are non-toxic to humans. This includes both the green and variegated varieties.

Is spider plant toxic to humans? ›

Spider Plant or Airplane Plant (Chlorophytum) is a very common houseplant, often grown in hanging baskets. It has arching green (or green and white), striped leaves. Stems carry baby plants at the end. This plant is not toxic to people, but as with all plants, it can be a choking hazard if eaten.

Are spider plants good for your health? ›

🌱 Green Therapy. Studies suggest that these plants don't just clean the air; they might clean up your mood too. Having a Spider Plant around could lead to lower stress levels. It's like having a living, breathing stress ball – but prettier.

Are spider plants hallucinogenic? ›

While non-toxic, the plant can still cause mild hallucinogenic effects in felines.

Are spider plants toxic to kids or pets? ›

The absence of toxins makes the spider plant safe not only for cats and dogs but also for humans. If you have a toddler with the habit of taste-testing everything, spider plants won't harm them. However, munching on this plant in large amounts is also not recommended.

What toxins do spider plants remove? ›

Abstract. Spider plants (Chlorophytum comosum) are known to be among the most common easy mountable indoor plants capable of purifying indoor air by absorbing carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, xylene, and many other hazardous gases. In addition, these plants are non-toxic and safe for pets and children.

What is the difference between variegated and non variegated spider plants? ›

Since most spider plants are variegated, the solid green color makes them unique, interesting, and harder to find. A non-variegated spider plant is also in fact a healthier plant. Anywhere a plant is not green, like the white or pink areas in other types, chlorophyll is absent.

What is the common name for variegated spider plant? ›

Chlorophytum comosum variegatum, also known as variegated spider plant or variegated airplane plant, is a species of flowering plant in the family Asparagaceae.

Are spider plants good for breathing? ›

Spider plants are gorgeous, sprawling greens that clean the air and are pet-friendly! NASA's study found that spider plants were able to remove 95% of chemicals from the air in 24 hours. Spider plants filter toxins including: carbon monoxide.

Are spider plants bad luck? ›

With its ribbon-like appearance, the spider plant is believed to bring good luck with its naturally strong and long leaves. The leaves of the plant represent growth, while its white flowers are a symbol of purity. The plant as a whole is believed to bring about a long life and stability.

Do spider plants purify the air? ›

The National Aeronautic and Space Administration (NASA), which tested the abilities of three common houseplants to remove formaldehyde from the air, found in preliminary tests that spider plants were the champs, removing 95 percent of the toxic substance from a sealed Plexiglas chamber in 24 hours.

Do spider plants help you sleep? ›

One of the biggest spider plant benefits is its ability to remove harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, benzene, carbon monoxide and xylen from the air, which can help you wake feeling clearer headed and more rested.

Can I keep a spider plant in my bedroom? ›

Spider Plant

A common carcinogen, formaldehyde, which is found in many household products, is removed by spider plants making it a perfect bedroom plant. Spider plants will also emit a lot of oxygen, helping you breathe more naturally in the evening while you sleep.

Are spider plants bad for you? ›

🌿 Spider plants are non-toxic to both humans and pets, ensuring household safety. 🌬️ Air-purifying qualities improve indoor air quality and well-being. Easy propagation and care make spider plants ideal for indoor gardeners.

What do spider plants do for you? ›

Spider plant helps clean indoor air. Studies have shown that spider plant is quite effective in cleaning indoor air by absorbing chemicals including formaldehyde, xylene, benzene, and carbon monoxide in homes or offices. Thick, fleshy roots allow spider plant to tolerate inconsistent watering.

Is spider plant like catnip? ›

Some believe the Curly Spider Plant is a feline foe, but in truth, it's as harmless as a ball of yarn. However, it does have a catnip-like effect. Cats might go a little gaga over it, which can lead to some tummy trouble if they overindulge.

What happens if a human eats a spider plant? ›

This plant is non-toxic, and while it may not taste great, it's unlikely to harm them. You might see some spitting and a grimace, but serious symptoms are rare. Still, keep an eye out for any unusual reactions and consult a healthcare provider if you're concerned.

Why do cats love spider plants? ›

But, the Spider Plant attracts cats in part because it is mildly hallucinogenic. Because cats are more likely to play with the plant, they're more likely to eat it and, therefore, suffer from an upset stomach, vomiting, or diarrhea. So, I recommend that you avoid Spider Plants if you have a cat.

Do spider plants attract spiders? ›

Despite its name, spider plants don't attract spiders or other bugs. It can, however, suffer from insect infestations (like most plants). Common spider plant infestations can come from scales, aphids, mites, and whiteflies.

What does NASA say about spider plants? ›

The Spider Plant, or Chlorophytum comosum, is possibly the most popular house plant. NASA places this plant among the top 3 types of houseplants that are great at removing formaldahyde. Also removes carbon monoxide and other toxins or impurities.

What are the disadvantages of spider plants? ›

Spider plants have a low tolerance to chemicals and fertilisers. Use of chemical fertilisers on these plants can result in discolouration of leaves. Spider plants are sensitive to the environment. Their leaf tips turn brown when kept in a bright light for a long time.

Which tree purifies air the most? ›

Peepal tree ( Ficus religiosa )is the tree which purifies air the most. maximum air purification.

Is a variegated spider plant indoor or outdoor? ›

Planting and Growing

This houseplant performs well in both bright or indirect sunlight and strong artificial light, and can therefore be situated in almost any well-lit room or location. It is very adaptable to both dry and moist soil, but will not tolerate any standing water.

Why are the tips of my variegated spider plant turning brown? ›

Your spider plant may have brown tips due to: Underwatering that results in crisp, browning foliage. Drafts, if you keep your plant near air vents. Low humidity levels in the air.

How often do you water variegated spider plants? ›

You can water your spider plant while you water the rest of your houseplants. Spider plants do not require additional watering or much special attention to their moisture levels. Try to water your spider plant about once a week. Letting the soil dry out a little between waterings is a good idea.

What is the weird thing growing out of my spider plant? ›

The long, wiry stems protruding from the inner core of the plant are called spider plant babies, plantlets and my personal favorite Spiderettes. They are simply the offspring from the parent plant.

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