Photo of spider plants, spider graphics: Teresa Watkins

Spider plants (Chlorophytum comosum) are among the most recognizable and forgiving houseplants around, especially for anyone who remembers the 1960s and 70s when they seemed to occupy every college dorm room, hippie hideaway, and macramé hanging basket in America. Today, there are more than 200 named varieties, ranging from solid green selections to the white-striped 'Variegatum' and the reverse-variegated 'Vittatum', all known for producing arching foliage and their famous dangling "spiderettes." My favorite is the Curly Spider Plant, Chlorophytum comosum 'Bonnie'. Instead of long, straight leaves, 'Bonnie' sports playful green-and-white curls that look as though they just came from a garden salon. Its compact, whimsical form adds texture and personality to containers and hanging baskets while maintaining the spider plant's well-earned reputation as one of the easiest, most carefree houseplants you'll ever grow.

Teresa’s Note: The planter featured in the graphic is one of my client installations, showcasing Curly Spider Plant 'Bonnie' paired with colorful impatiens.