The popularity of indoor plants has been growing steadily over the last few years – and for good reason.
People are starting to catch on to the almost endless positive reasons you should adopt a new green companion. Not only are plants natural air fresheners, removing toxins and other nasties from the air you breathe, but they also increase your wellbeing and mood while adding a lively splash of colour in otherwise dull areas of the house.
The feeling and presence of nature when you come home from the hustle and bustle of a busy day really can help you feel more uplifted and positive. This performs wonders when you’re ready to relax, chill and really unwind from a hectic day.
The added bonus that most people love about modern, hardy indoor plants is that the majority of them require little sunlight or water. In other words, they’re generally low maintenance, easy to care for and will survive through some neglect when you’re busy dealing with life. In fact, one of the most common problems that people have with their indoor plants is the innocent act of overwatering. Quite often you think you’re doing the right thing by giving your greenery a drink, but the reality plants do not require copious amounts of H2o to survive and thrive.
Almost all of the plants on this list (unless otherwise specified) are recommended for their shade-loving qualities and because they like to dry out between watering, making them beginner-friendly and easy care for people whose lifestyle is predominantly based outside the home.
- Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) – The peace lily is one of the most beloved, hardiest and visually appealing plants on this list. They boast gorgeous lush green foliage year-round and on more mature plants produce dazzlingly pure white flowers.
- Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) – The pothos is another great indoor plant that will grow in dimly lit areas and is highly resilient. This plant is one that can be grown in water without the need for additional nutrients, making it an extremely versatile option. Pothos are a fast-growing vining plant, so if hanging, cascading plants catch your eye, this may be the one for you.
- Philodendrons – Some Philodendrons are similar to the Pothos in the way they provide trailing foliage, or, alternatively, they can be trained to grow wherever you want. They don’t require much sunlight but will love bright indirect sunlight they will soak up while maturing. With the vast varieties of Philodendrons, you are sure to find one that you’ll love.
- Fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata) – Fiddle leaf figs are among the most popular indoor house plants due to their large fiddle shaped leaves and variegated structure. They can grow quite tall if given the correct conditions and can make great feature statements. One of the primary tools in an Interior Stylist’s arsenal for hiding blemishes and brining attention to highlights, the Fiddle Leaf Fig is perhaps the modern go-to for indoor greenery.
- Snake plant (Sansevieria) – This plant is a beginner’s treat, with its striking aesthetics and easy to care for routine. This hardy plant actually thrives on neglect and will survive in almost any light situation – making it ideal for bachelors looking to win some style points in their pads.
- Fruit salad plant (Monstera deliciosa) – This iconic plant that you’ve bound to have seen before is easy to care for and possesses a fascinating-yet-alluring look with its split leaves and multiple hues of green. They like shade and humidity and love growing indoors, as cold conditions are not the ideal environment in which they will flourish and be a real feature.
- Zebra plant (Calathea) – Calatheas have very attractive foliage with intriguing patterns that lighten up any room, regardless of palette or colour scheme. They can be a little picky with their water requirements, but will survive in low light situations and add an eye-catching pop of colour to any room.
- Lucky bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana) – Lucky bamboo is very easy to grow and gives off an lush, oriental vibe. It can be grown in only water and trained into complex patterns, so if you’re prepared to put in a very small amount of effort, you can produce a visually stunning plant as it develops over time.
- Zanzibar gem (Zamioculcas) – The Zanzibar gem makes a fabulous house plant, with its thick, deep green, glossy foliage. Deftly lifting the tranquillity in your home, it’s a tough plant that requires minimal fuss and little light to survive.
- Rubber plant (Ficus elastica) – The rubber plant is another great choice, especially if you like larger statement pieces. They are actually trees and if allowed to grow outside will develop into to a large canopy tree. But indoors when they are pot-bound and well-cared for they will not outgrow your house, instead providing a living feature that draws attention – and envy.
While all these plants are beautiful and make for outstanding indoor choices, it is important to note that none of these plants are to be ingested as they can potentially be poisonous. This is of primary concern is you have small children or pets.
But, with a little TLC and the correct placement, any of these plants will make a stunning addition to your home and bring your interiors to life.