Spider Plant Babies (Spiderettes): What They Are and How to Grow Them

One of the most fascinating features of the Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) is its ability to produce small baby plants known as spiderettes. These baby plants grow on long stems extending from the mother plant and can easily develop into new plants.

Spider plant babies make this houseplant incredibly easy to propagate and share with friends.

What Are Spider Plant Babies?

Spider plant babies, also called spiderettes or plantlets, are miniature versions of the parent plant. They form at the ends of long arching stems.

• Look like tiny spider plants
• Develop small leaves and roots
• Can grow into full plants

These babies are part of the plant’s natural reproduction process.

When Do Spider Plants Produce Babies?

Spider plants usually start producing babies once they reach maturity.

• Typically within 6–12 months
• After the plant becomes well established
• During spring and summer

Healthy plants grow faster as explained in Spider Plant Growth Rate.

Why Is My Spider Plant Not Producing Babies?

Several factors may prevent spider plants from producing spiderettes.

• Insufficient light
• Young plant age
• Low nutrients
• Pot too large

Lighting conditions are explained in Spider Plant Light Requirements.

How to Propagate Spider Plant Babies

Spider plant babies are very easy to propagate.

Method 1: Water Propagation

• Cut the baby plant from the stem
• Place the base in water
• Roots develop within days

See the full process in Spider Plant Propagation Guide.

Method 2: Soil Propagation

• Place the baby plant directly into soil
• Keep the soil lightly moist
• Roots develop quickly

The best soil mix is explained in Spider Plant Soil Mix.

How to Care for Spider Plant Babies

Young spider plants need slightly different care than mature plants.

• Bright indirect light
• Light watering
• Well-draining soil

Proper watering is explained in Spider Plant Watering Guide.

Common Problems With Spider Plant Babies

• Spider Plant Yellow Leaves
• Spider Plant Brown Tips
• Spider Plant Leaves Curling
• Spider Plant Pests
• Spider Plant Not Growing

FAQ

What are spider plant babies called?

Spider plant babies are commonly called spiderettes or plantlets.

Can spider plant babies grow without roots?

Yes. Spider plant babies can develop roots quickly in water or soil.

Should I cut spider plant babies?

You can cut them for propagation once they develop small leaves and roots.

How long does it take spider plant babies to grow?

Spider plant babies usually develop roots within one week and grow into full plants within a few months.