Spider plant leaves: what breakage and folding say about watering and position

Often, the damage has more behind it than simple bad luck.

Why spider plant leaves break or fold

Many owners treat the spider plant as a hassle-free beginner’s houseplant: they put it somewhere, water it “more or less”, and then feel baffled when this usually tough plant suddenly responds with broken or oddly folded leaves. If you look closely, the shape, colour and firmness of the leaves can tell you quite precisely what’s going wrong with watering and positioning - so you can steer the plant back on track in time.

What healthy leaves look like on a spider plant

A healthy spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) forms a dense tuft of foliage at the centre, from which long, flexible leaves arch outwards in an elegant cascade. Overall, it looks a bit like a small green fountain. Depending on the variety, the leaves are rich green or green-and-white striped, feel smooth and springy, and can be moved easily without creasing.

Typical signs of intact leaves

• an even curve with no sharp kink points

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