Genus of about 250 species of evergreen, rhizomatous perennials with fibrous or fleshy roots, from a variety of habitats in South Africa and W. Africa. Chlorophytum is one of the most popular of all house plants. Spider Plant forms long runners bearing plantlets that are best displayed in a hanging pot. Best growth occurs in medium light intensity and any good potting soil. Keep the soil moderately moist and temperatures above 45 degrees. Ideal temperatures are between 55 and 70 degrees. Plantlets form when spider plant receives short days and long, uninterrupted nights for at least three weeks. After three weeks the plant may be moved into a room which is lit in the evening. Heavily fertilised plants may not form as many plantlets. Various cultural or environmental factors probably cause the browning of the leaf tips.