Adding some beautiful houseplants is the easiest way to breathe life into your home or office. Whether you’re a seasoned “plant parent” or just starting your indoor jungle, here’s a breakdown of some top picks and how to find the perfect match for your space.
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++Flamingo Lily (Anthurium)
The Flamingo Lily gets its name from its stunning, exotic look. The “flower” is actually a waxy, heart-shaped leaf that wraps elegantly around a central spike, looking a bit like a high-fashion ballgown. Those deep green leaves provide a gorgeous contrast to the bright red blooms we usually see. These beauties love bright light but aren’t big fans of direct sun—so a spot with partial shade is perfect. Plus, they’re surprisingly low-maintenance and the blooms last a long time!
++Cyclamen
If you’re looking for a fuss-free plant with unique flowers, the Cyclamen is a fantastic choice. Its petals reach upward, standing tall above the foliage like little wings. They prefer their soil to stay moderately moist but hate sitting in water, so you don’t need to water them too often. Just a heads-up: Cyclamen can be toxic, so it’s best to keep them out of reach of curious pets or small children.
++Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
The Spider Plant is an absolute classic for a reason. Not only does it look cool with its long, arching leaves, but it’s also a powerhouse air purifier, literally scrubbing toxins out of your room’s atmosphere. One of the best things about them? They produce “babies” (offsets) that dangle down from the main plant. It is incredibly easy to take these spiderettes and pot them up to grow brand-new plants for your friends!
++Calathea (Prayer Plant)
Many plant lovers consider the Calathea to be one of the most beautiful indoor plants in the world, and it’s easy to see why. Their leaves look like they’ve been hand-painted with intricate patterns and colors. There are tons of varieties with different shapes and textures to choose from. To keep those delicate leaves looking their best, keep them out of direct sunlight—they much prefer a cozy, semi-shaded spot.
++Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)
Looking for a statement piece with massive, glossy leaves? The Fiddle Leaf Fig is the “it” plant of the interior design world. A member of the rubber tree family, its leaves are shaped just like the body of a violin (hence the name). They have a lovely wavy texture and a deep green shine. These can grow up to 12 feet tall indoors, making them the perfect choice if you want to fill a corner in a large living room or office.
++Swiss Cheese Plant (Monstera Deliciosa)
The Monstera is famous for its iconic “Swiss cheese” holes and deep splits in its giant leaves. It’s a total showstopper that can grow quite large and dramatic. It’s so popular that you’ll see its leaf pattern on everything from wallpaper to throw pillows! Luckily, it’s also pretty easy to care for. Just give it a bright spot away from harsh, direct sun rays and watch it thrive.
++Orchid (Orchidaceae)
For a touch of elegance, you can’t beat an Orchid. They are among the most popular houseplants worldwide for a reason—their exotic blooms can last for months at a time. They come in almost every color imaginable, so you can find one that perfectly matches your decor. Orchids are also my go-to recommendation if you’re looking for a thoughtful gift for a friend.
%%Staghorn Fern (Platycerium)
If you want something truly unique, check out the Staghorn Fern. Its leaves grow in a shape that looks exactly like deer antlers. These are “epiphytes,” meaning in nature they grow on trees. You can actually mount them onto a piece of wood and hang them on your wall! It creates a living piece of art that looks like it’s floating in your room.