What are Anthericaceae plants? These so-called spider plants are actually fake spider plants
Anthericaceae plants are shrubs or herbs, evergreen or deciduous, with varied forms, mainly distributed in the temperate and tropical regions of the Southern Hemisphere. The family has a total of 8 genera and about 285 species, and many species have been introduced around the world as ornamental flowers, among which the genus Chlorophytum is the most commonly cultivated type.
In the world of plant lovers, spider plants are deeply loved for their elegant posture and fresh temperament. However, not all plants with the word "spider plant" in their names are true Anthericaceae plants. Today, we will review several plants that are often mistaken for spider plants,
Aptenia cordifolia:Aptenia cordifolia, also known as heartleaf iceplant, ox-tongue spider plant, cherry blossom spider plant, etc., is a perennial evergreen herb of the genus Mesembryanthemum in the family Aizoaceae. Although its name contains "spider plant", it does not belong to the Anthericaceae family. Aptenia cordifolia has relatively beautiful leaf shape and color, and bright flowers, making it an excellent choice for decorating living rooms and windowsills. Its branches droop, its leaves are thick and emerald green, and its flowers are rose red, with a flowering period from spring to autumn, offering both flowers and foliage. However, compared with true spider plants, Aptenia cordifolia is fundamentally different in taxonomy.
String of Pearls:String of Pearls, also known as jade beads, Buddhist bead spider plant, etc., is a typical succulent plant belonging to the family Asteraceae. Its name likewise makes people think of spider plants, but in fact, it is a member of the succulent world. The leaves of String of Pearls are plump, full, emerald green, and oval, shaped like pearls, hence the name. This plant is highly adaptable, relatively drought-tolerant and cold-tolerant, prefers a warm, humid, semi-shaded environment, and grows best in loose, fertile soil. Its beauty lies in those round leaves, swaying in the wind like wind chimes, adding a touch of fresh green to the home.
Wedding Dress Spider Plant:Wedding Dress Spider Plant, also known as bride's grass, is a perennial herbaceous plant of the genus Tradescantia in the family Commelinaceae. Its name sounds romantic and elegant, but in fact, it has no direct relation to spider plants. The branches and leaves of Wedding Dress Spider Plant are soft and emerald green, with many branches and luxuriant growth. When trimmed into a spherical shape, Wedding Dress Spider Plant has many small white flowers dotted among its emerald green leaves, just like a bride's wedding dress, fresh and beautiful. This plant likes a semi-shaded growing environment, avoids direct strong sunlight, and about 3-5 hours of scattered light per day is sufficient. Its propagation method is also relatively simple and can be done by cuttings.
From the above introduction, it is not difficult to find that although Aptenia cordifolia, String of Pearls, and Wedding Dress Spider Plant all have the word "spider plant" in their names, they actually do not belong to the Anthericaceae family. These plants have different taxonomic placements and each possesses unique growth habits and ornamental value. Therefore, when purchasing and caring for them, we need to distinguish them carefully to avoid misunderstandings. At the same time, let us also cherish these beautiful plants more, adding more color and vitality to our lives.