The spider plant is a cheerful, fast-growing houseplant with graceful, often variegated leaves in shades of green, purple, silver and pink. Thanks to its trailing habit, it is particularly well suited as a hanging plant or placed on a tall cabinet where its long stems can hang freely. Tradescantia is an excellent choice for beginners thanks to its hardiness and rapid growth.

Light Tradescantia thrives in a bright spot with indirect light. The more light it receives, the more intense the colours of its leaves become. Variegated varieties require more light than solid green ones. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as this can burn the leaves.

Watering Water the Tradescantia as soon as the top 2 centimetres of soil feel dry to the touch. Ensure the pot drains properly and does not sit in standing water. In winter, the plant requires less water. Tradescantia is fairly tolerant when it comes to watering, but prolonged dryness causes brown spots to appear on the tips of the leaves.

Temperature The ideal temperature is between 15 and 25 degrees. Tradescantia can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, but it is sensitive to frost and cold draughts.

Care Prune the stems regularly to keep the plant compact and bushy. Cuttings root easily in water or potting soil and can be given to friends. Remove yellowed leaves at the base and, during the growing season in spring and summer, give the plant a small dose of liquid fertiliser once a month.