Best plants for the house
10 top plants to grow at home |
Discover the best 10 indoor plants to add color and interest to every room with our easy-to-follow guide. Full of expert tips as to which house plants will survive best in your home, you can banish any worries of green fingered failures for good.
From statuesque favorites such as the Swiss Cheese plant and Kentia palm to the smaller but just as spectacular Calathea and Anthuriums, you can learn how to make confident house plant choices and fill your home with undemanding but super stylish plants.
With most indoor plants originating from the tropics, there’s a wide range of different plant shapes and habits to choose from too. While dainty trailing beauties such as String of Hearts and the curious Jade necklace vine will look stunning cascading from a high shelf or mantlepiece, a large glossy leaved Elephant’s Ear or Kentia palm will do a fantastic job of cozying up an empty corner. Then, of course, there are air cleaning indoor plants to consider, too.
Best indoor plants
Leading plant writer Veronica Peerless, author of How Not To Kill Your Houseplant (published by Dorling Kindersley) explains, ‘There’s a horticultural saying of ‘Right plant, Right place’ and this certainly applies to house plants as well as those in the garden. Be realistic when it comes to placing a plant indoors, consider its practical needs as well as your aesthetic ideal and be prepared to compromise.’
For instance, there are some bathroom plants that are well suited to humid atmospheres, whereas others would struggle in this environment.
Below, we tell you which house plants are the best fit for you and your home.
1. String of hearts
(Image credit: Alamy)
Extremely easy to look after, this delicate trailing plant is very tolerant and undemanding. Pairs of tiny heart shaped leaves are silver-grey with a rose-pink underside. Just like a succulent it stores water in its long stems, and these can reach up to six and half ft (2m) long.
As a result, this plant looks stunning on a shelf or popped into a hanging planter above the stairs or window, and is lovely as a bedroom plant.
Happy at most room temperatures, just avoid draughts or direct sun, it tends to like moist but not waterlogged soil. Want to give it an occasional boost? Then mist with a water spray and pop by a window for a few hours in the morning or evening.
Add them to a dresser or shelves as kitchen plants.
2. Snake plant or Sansevieria
(Image credit: Alamy)
It’s the striped and twisting sword-like leaves that makes this plant so dramatic. Tough and extremely drought tolerant, it is often referred to as mother-in-law’s tongue – and makes the perfect showstopper on a side table or sitting neatly in a corner.
There are plenty of different varieties of snake plant to choose from, including dwarf varieties such as Sansevieria fischeri at 16 inches (40cm) up to 3-4ft (91-121cm) for Masoniana and trifasciata types.
Relatively slow growing, they can cope with low light conditions but will grow faster in brighter conditions.
Native to west Africa these plants can stay outside in HDSA zones 9-12. They will die though if left in temperatures below 50℉ or exposed to frost. During spring and summer water once a week but do drop to once a month in fall and winter when the plant is dormant.
3. Peace lily
(Image credit: Alamy)
The epitome of elegance, the Peace lily with its glossy tear shaped leaves and pure white flowers is one of the most popular indoor plants. Effortlessly chic, they radiate tranquillity and simplicity but can be a little temperamental at times. They do prefer moist soil, but the good news is that these plants will tell you when they are thirsty as the leaves will droop. Pop it next to the shower for the occasional boost or mist with a water spray.
Do avoid direct sun hitting the foliage as it will scorch, but place in a light, bright spot for the healthiest deep green leaves.
This plant reaches around 30 inches high (75cm) and will thrive in temperatures 64-75℉ (18-24°C) but can cope with lows of 53℉ (12°C).
4. Monstera deliciosa or Swiss Cheese Plant
(Image credit: istock)
Giant glossy leaves and tropical vibes – what’s not to like about Monstera deliciosa - or the Swiss Cheese Plant as it’s also known. Native to Mexico and Central America it’s an indoor plant that makes a big impact and looks fantastic.
‘Think of the climate and conditions in the rainforest, where these plants come from,’ says Mark Lawlor of Happy Houseplants . ‘Humidity is high, rainfall is occasional and heavy, light is bright but usually shaded by taller trees. You can replicate these conditions in a steamy kitchen or bathroom at home, and even in a warm living room!’
These instantly recognizable plants are climbers with aerial roots, so indoors they do need to be trained up moss cover poles to mimic the trees it clings to in the wild. Indoors it can grow up to 78 inches (2m) high, but the size of pot will limit its growth.
Preferring warm temperatures of between 64-80℉ (18-27°C) it can tolerate chilly conditions down to 53℉ (12°C). Do avoid cold drafts.
5. ZZ plant or Zamioculcas zamiifolia or Zanzibar Gem
(Image credit: Alamy)
Fancy a houseplant that looks like no other? Then the ZZ plant or ric-rac plant is a must. Dark glossy slender leaves with distinct undulating edges, it makes a real impact placed on its own on a side or coffee table.
A very undemanding plant, it will merrily thrive in a shady spot as well as indirect light and is happy to be root bound, reducing the need for regular repotting. Extremely drought tolerant and hard to kill, the tall foliage slowly grows up to 3ft (just under 1m) high and prefers temperatures of 59–75℉ (15°C to 24°C).
One extra bonus is that the ZZ plant also has air purifying capabilities, removing harmful compounds such as benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylene. Give it an extra growth boost by feeding it with liquid fertilizer once per month in spring and summer.
6. Philodendron
(Image credit: Alamy)
If you are after a tall, upright plant that won’t invade your space then try a philodendron. A large leaved climber hailing from the Caribbean, it loves bright light positions but can also cope with a bit of shade.
A natural and prolific climber, it can be trained up a mossy pole and looks stunning in a raised planter. ‘These plants will thrive in almost all levels of humidity, however placing them in high humidity environments will encourage larger leaves,’ say the plant experts at Hortology . They also suggest to, ‘Increase the bushiness of this plant by pinching out after a leaf node on single stems. This will promote off shoots and more branches, meaning more leaves.’
With over 489 species to choose from you won’t be left wanting. Preferring a humid environment, you may want to occasionally mist your plant or place it in a steamy bathroom. Temperatures of between 60-75℉ (16 – 24°C) are ideal for this beauty and bear in mind that it can grow up to 13ft (4m) so you may need to trim it as needed.
7. Succulents
(Image credit: Getty Images)
With their intriguing and intricate shapes, succulents are hugely popular plants – both indoors and out. Gynelle Lyon author of Prick , (published Mitchell Beazley) says, ‘the term "succulent" refers to those plants, that over time have undergone modifications to their shape and structure. These have resulted in a huge number of weird and wonderful plants that are not only tough but also simple to grow.’
Varying in shape, size, color and height, these little gems make a fantastic indoor display grouped together in individual pots lined up on shelf or window ledge or planted en masse as a table focal point. Echeveria, sedum, lithops and haworthia are all easily found, decorative and love a bright, sunny spot. Avoid humid areas such as bathrooms or kitchens, instead opt for dry conditions with warm temperatures from 64-75℉ (18 – 24°C). Allow the compost to dry out completely before watering thoroughly, avoiding the rosettes or glaucous leaves as this will cause the plant to rot.
8. Pothos or Devils ivy
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Easy to care for and highly rewarding, Pothos are large leaved climbers (or trailers depending on your preference) are prolific and almost thrive on neglect. With a huge range of different colored foliage to choose from; neon green and silver blue green are just two striking options, you can add real impact to practically any room in the house. The fleshy stems can reach up to 65ft plus (20m+) in the wild but are likely to reach less indoors. Trim if needed.
Preferred room temperatures range from 50-73℉ (10 – 24°C) and although they do like humid conditions only water when the top two inches of compost are dry. The leaves tend to curl slightly when thirsty. If you ever find yourself wondering 'why is my pothos turning yellow?' it could be that you are watering it too much or too little.
9. Peacock plant or calathea
(Image credit: Happy Houseplants)
Proud owners of the most decorative foliage; peacock plants have fantastically striped leaves in shades of green, yellow, pink and white.
‘Sometimes referred to as the prayer plant because its leaves lie flat during the day and fold upwards at night, as if in prayer,’ explains Mark Lawlor of Happy Houseplants.
Big fans of warm humid conditions, these plants prefer toasty temperatures of around 64-75℉ (18 – 24°C) and benefit from a regular misting. ‘Overwatering is a common mistake with Maranta; rather than follow a routine, think about how much sunshine your plant receives through the day. Overwatered Maranta will show signs of distress, such as yellowing leaves. When in doubt, follow the simple rule 'drench then drought', ensuring the soil always dries out between waterings,’ continues Mark.
Place them in direct but not strong light – a north or east facing window is ideal – for the best leaf coloring.
10. Bromeliads
(Image credit: Alamy)
Exotic and highly colored – these tropical plants love bright sunny spots and are easy-to-grow, long lasting house plants. From the centre of the thick tube-like rosettes of foliage, the plant produces a brilliantly colored flower spike – this can be fuchsia, orange, yellow or red depending on variety – and they make a spectacular indoor feature.
In the wild, water naturally collects in the lowest ‘cup’ of leaves so imitate this when watering the plant indoors. Empty the water out weekly to remove any collected insects and debris.
Fans of a constant temperature of 59℉ (15°C), these unusual plants also appreciate their leaves being misted once a week during summer. Increase humidity further by standing the plant on a gravel filled saucer partially filled with water. Do avoid leaving the roots in standing water though, as this can cause the plant to suffocate.
What is the best indoor plant?
Definitely a matter of personal opinion, but one of the most impressive and hard to kill indoor plants is the Kentia palm (below and top). Able to cope with most light conditions this elegant palm grows up to 10ft (3m) tall, has slender leaves, casting beautiful shadows and simply oozes class and sophistication. Pop it in a pot away from direct light and it will be happy with minimal fuss.
‘The golden rule is not to leave this plant sitting in water,’ say the team at Crocus .
‘They like a moist soil but don't like to have their roots sodden, so feel the top of the soil before watering. In the winter it will still need watering but not as much.‘
(Image credit: Alamy)
What is the best house plant for a living room?
Fibrous and rhizomatous begonias make excellent houseplants thanks to their highly decorative foliage. Finding them a bright spot but out of direct sunlight is key to their success along with some humidity. ‘Begonia’ Gryphon’ is grown for its wonderful architectural foliage,’ says plant specialist Sarah Raven . ‘The maple-shaped leaves are deep green, marked with silver on their surface and dark red below making it a striking statement.’
Overwatering is a common problem with begonias so do wait until the leaves begin to droop before watering. Avoid getting any water on the leaves as this can lead to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew. Although it can be easy to get rid of powdery mildew, it can weaken your plant quickly.
You will need to know how to overwinter begonias if you want to grow them outdoors.
(Image credit: Farmer Gracy)
Watering indoor plants
More house plants are killed off by overwatering than anything else. In our keenness to nurture and fill our homes with lush foliage we tend to reach for the watering can, but this is often not the answer. Plant writer Veronica Peerless says, ‘Indoor plants need less water than we realize. Use the soil as an indicator. It’s okay for the top inch to be dry but if its more then it’s time to soak the plant. Soak the plant, in its plastic pot for 30 minutes, allow it to drain before popping it back in place.’
Where to buy the best indoor plants?
You can buy the best indoor plants at your local nursery; ask for guidance if you need help. Otherwise, shop online for the best places to buy plants. These include: Lowes Garden Center , Home Depot's Garden Center and Burpee for the best buys.
10 top plants to grow at home |
Discover the best 10 indoor plants to add color and interest to every room with our easy-to-follow guide.
Full of expert tips as to which house plants will survive best in your home, you can banish any worries of green fingered failures for good.
From statuesque favorites such as the Swiss Cheese plant and Kentia palm to the smaller but just as spectacular Calathea and Anthuriums, you can learn how to make confident house plant choices and fill your home with undemanding but super stylish plants.
With most indoor plants originating from the tropics, there’s a wide range of different plant shapes and habits to choose from too. While dainty trailing beauties such as String of Hearts and the curious Jade necklace vine will look stunning cascading from a high shelf or mantlepiece, a large glossy leaved Elephant’s Ear or Kentia palm will do a fantastic job of cozying up an empty corner. Then, of course, there are air cleaning indoor plants to consider, too.
Best indoor plants
Leading plant writer Veronica Peerless, author of How Not To Kill Your Houseplant (published by Dorling Kindersley) explains, ‘There’s a horticultural saying of ‘Right plant, Right place’ and this certainly applies to house plants as well as those in the garden.
Be realistic when it comes to placing a plant indoors, consider its practical needs as well as your aesthetic ideal and be prepared to compromise.’
For instance, there are some bathroom plants that are well suited to humid atmospheres, whereas others would struggle in this environment.
Below, we tell you which house plants are the best fit for you and your home.
1. String of hearts
(Image credit: Alamy)
Extremely easy to look after, this delicate trailing plant is very tolerant and undemanding. Pairs of tiny heart shaped leaves are silver-grey with a rose-pink underside. Just like a succulent it stores water in its long stems, and these can reach up to six and half ft (2m) long. As a result, this plant looks stunning on a shelf or popped into a hanging planter above the stairs or window, and is lovely as a bedroom plant.
Happy at most room temperatures, just avoid draughts or direct sun, it tends to like moist but not waterlogged soil. Want to give it an occasional boost? Then mist with a water spray and pop by a window for a few hours in the morning or evening.
Add them to a dresser or shelves as kitchen plants.
2. Snake plant or Sansevieria
(Image credit: Alamy)
It’s the striped and twisting sword-like leaves that makes this plant so dramatic. Tough and extremely drought tolerant, it is often referred to as mother-in-law’s tongue – and makes the perfect showstopper on a side table or sitting neatly in a corner.
There are plenty of different varieties of snake plant to choose from, including dwarf varieties such as Sansevieria fischeri at 16 inches (40cm) up to 3-4ft (91-121cm) for Masoniana and trifasciata types. Relatively slow growing, they can cope with low light conditions but will grow faster in brighter conditions.
Native to west Africa these plants can stay outside in HDSA zones 9-12. They will die though if left in temperatures below 50℉ or exposed to frost. During spring and summer water once a week but do drop to once a month in fall and winter when the plant is dormant.
3. Peace lily
(Image credit: Alamy)
The epitome of elegance, the Peace lily with its glossy tear shaped leaves and pure white flowers is one of the most popular indoor plants.
Effortlessly chic, they radiate tranquillity and simplicity but can be a little temperamental at times. They do prefer moist soil, but the good news is that these plants will tell you when they are thirsty as the leaves will droop. Pop it next to the shower for the occasional boost or mist with a water spray.
Do avoid direct sun hitting the foliage as it will scorch, but place in a light, bright spot for the healthiest deep green leaves. This plant reaches around 30 inches high (75cm) and will thrive in temperatures 64-75℉ (18-24°C) but can cope with lows of 53℉ (12°C).
4. Monstera deliciosa or Swiss Cheese Plant
(Image credit: istock)
Giant glossy leaves and tropical vibes – what’s not to like about Monstera deliciosa - or the Swiss Cheese Plant as it’s also known. Native to Mexico and Central America it’s an indoor plant that makes a big impact and looks fantastic.
‘Think of the climate and conditions in the rainforest, where these plants come from,’ says Mark Lawlor of Happy Houseplants .
‘Humidity is high, rainfall is occasional and heavy, light is bright but usually shaded by taller trees. You can replicate these conditions in a steamy kitchen or bathroom at home, and even in a warm living room!’
These instantly recognizable plants are climbers with aerial roots, so indoors they do need to be trained up moss cover poles to mimic the trees it clings to in the wild. Indoors it can grow up to 78 inches (2m) high, but the size of pot will limit its growth. Preferring warm temperatures of between 64-80℉ (18-27°C) it can tolerate chilly conditions down to 53℉ (12°C). Do avoid cold drafts.
5. ZZ plant or Zamioculcas zamiifolia or Zanzibar Gem
(Image credit: Alamy)
Fancy a houseplant that looks like no other? Then the ZZ plant or ric-rac plant is a must. Dark glossy slender leaves with distinct undulating edges, it makes a real impact placed on its own on a side or coffee table.
A very undemanding plant, it will merrily thrive in a shady spot as well as indirect light and is happy to be root bound, reducing the need for regular repotting.
Extremely drought tolerant and hard to kill, the tall foliage slowly grows up to 3ft (just under 1m) high and prefers temperatures of 59–75℉ (15°C to 24°C).
One extra bonus is that the ZZ plant also has air purifying capabilities, removing harmful compounds such as benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylene. Give it an extra growth boost by feeding it with liquid fertilizer once per month in spring and summer.
6. Philodendron
(Image credit: Alamy)
If you are after a tall, upright plant that won’t invade your space then try a philodendron. A large leaved climber hailing from the Caribbean, it loves bright light positions but can also cope with a bit of shade.
A natural and prolific climber, it can be trained up a mossy pole and looks stunning in a raised planter. ‘These plants will thrive in almost all levels of humidity, however placing them in high humidity environments will encourage larger leaves,’ say the plant experts at Hortology . They also suggest to, ‘Increase the bushiness of this plant by pinching out after a leaf node on single stems.
This will promote off shoots and more branches, meaning more leaves.’
With over 489 species to choose from you won’t be left wanting. Preferring a humid environment, you may want to occasionally mist your plant or place it in a steamy bathroom. Temperatures of between 60-75℉ (16 – 24°C) are ideal for this beauty and bear in mind that it can grow up to 13ft (4m) so you may need to trim it as needed.
7. Succulents
(Image credit: Getty Images)
With their intriguing and intricate shapes, succulents are hugely popular plants – both indoors and out. Gynelle Lyon author of Prick , (published Mitchell Beazley) says, ‘the term "succulent" refers to those plants, that over time have undergone modifications to their shape and structure. These have resulted in a huge number of weird and wonderful plants that are not only tough but also simple to grow.’
Varying in shape, size, color and height, these little gems make a fantastic indoor display grouped together in individual pots lined up on shelf or window ledge or planted en masse as a table focal point.
Echeveria, sedum, lithops and haworthia are all easily found, decorative and love a bright, sunny spot. Avoid humid areas such as bathrooms or kitchens, instead opt for dry conditions with warm temperatures from 64-75℉ (18 – 24°C). Allow the compost to dry out completely before watering thoroughly, avoiding the rosettes or glaucous leaves as this will cause the plant to rot.
8. Pothos or Devils ivy
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Easy to care for and highly rewarding, Pothos are large leaved climbers (or trailers depending on your preference) are prolific and almost thrive on neglect. With a huge range of different colored foliage to choose from; neon green and silver blue green are just two striking options, you can add real impact to practically any room in the house. The fleshy stems can reach up to 65ft plus (20m+) in the wild but are likely to reach less indoors. Trim if needed.
Preferred room temperatures range from 50-73℉ (10 – 24°C) and although they do like humid conditions only water when the top two inches of compost are dry.
The leaves tend to curl slightly when thirsty. If you ever find yourself wondering 'why is my pothos turning yellow?' it could be that you are watering it too much or too little.
9. Peacock plant or calathea
(Image credit: Happy Houseplants)
Proud owners of the most decorative foliage; peacock plants have fantastically striped leaves in shades of green, yellow, pink and white. ‘Sometimes referred to as the prayer plant because its leaves lie flat during the day and fold upwards at night, as if in prayer,’ explains Mark Lawlor of Happy Houseplants.
Big fans of warm humid conditions, these plants prefer toasty temperatures of around 64-75℉ (18 – 24°C) and benefit from a regular misting. ‘Overwatering is a common mistake with Maranta; rather than follow a routine, think about how much sunshine your plant receives through the day. Overwatered Maranta will show signs of distress, such as yellowing leaves. When in doubt, follow the simple rule 'drench then drought', ensuring the soil always dries out between waterings,’ continues Mark.
Place them in direct but not strong light – a north or east facing window is ideal – for the best leaf coloring.
10. Bromeliads
(Image credit: Alamy)
Exotic and highly colored – these tropical plants love bright sunny spots and are easy-to-grow, long lasting house plants. From the centre of the thick tube-like rosettes of foliage, the plant produces a brilliantly colored flower spike – this can be fuchsia, orange, yellow or red depending on variety – and they make a spectacular indoor feature.
In the wild, water naturally collects in the lowest ‘cup’ of leaves so imitate this when watering the plant indoors. Empty the water out weekly to remove any collected insects and debris.
Fans of a constant temperature of 59℉ (15°C), these unusual plants also appreciate their leaves being misted once a week during summer. Increase humidity further by standing the plant on a gravel filled saucer partially filled with water. Do avoid leaving the roots in standing water though, as this can cause the plant to suffocate.
What is the best indoor plant?
Definitely a matter of personal opinion, but one of the most impressive and hard to kill indoor plants is the Kentia palm (below and top). Able to cope with most light conditions this elegant palm grows up to 10ft (3m) tall, has slender leaves, casting beautiful shadows and simply oozes class and sophistication. Pop it in a pot away from direct light and it will be happy with minimal fuss.
‘The golden rule is not to leave this plant sitting in water,’ say the team at Crocus . ‘They like a moist soil but don't like to have their roots sodden, so feel the top of the soil before watering. In the winter it will still need watering but not as much.‘
(Image credit: Alamy)
What is the best house plant for a living room?
Fibrous and rhizomatous begonias make excellent houseplants thanks to their highly decorative foliage. Finding them a bright spot but out of direct sunlight is key to their success along with some humidity.
‘Begonia’ Gryphon’ is grown for its wonderful architectural foliage,’ says plant specialist Sarah Raven . ‘The maple-shaped leaves are deep green, marked with silver on their surface and dark red below making it a striking statement.’
Overwatering is a common problem with begonias so do wait until the leaves begin to droop before watering. Avoid getting any water on the leaves as this can lead to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew. Although it can be easy to get rid of powdery mildew, it can weaken your plant quickly. You will need to know how to overwinter begonias if you want to grow them outdoors.
(Image credit: Farmer Gracy)
Watering indoor plants
More house plants are killed off by overwatering than anything else. In our keenness to nurture and fill our homes with lush foliage we tend to reach for the watering can, but this is often not the answer. Plant writer Veronica Peerless says, ‘Indoor plants need less water than we realize. Use the soil as an indicator.
It’s okay for the top inch to be dry but if its more then it’s time to soak the plant. Soak the plant, in its plastic pot for 30 minutes, allow it to drain before popping it back in place.’
Where to buy the best indoor plants?
You can buy the best indoor plants at your local nursery; ask for guidance if you need help. Otherwise, shop online for the best places to buy plants. These include: Lowes Garden Center , Home Depot's Garden Center and Burpee for the best buys.
Top 10 Filter Houseplants - Decoretto Blog
Houseplants are the little garden in your home that adds an exotic touch to your home with a fresh and vibrant look. However, we all know that in addition to the aesthetic function, indoor flowers help improve air quality and reduce pollution in the home.
By the way, houseplants are able not only to release oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide, but also help to neutralize volatile organic compounds present in our homes.
Below is a list of 10 plants that are best for cleaning the air in your home.
- Ficus Benjamina
This is one of the most common indoor plants and can filter many air pollutants found in carpets and furniture.
Required light level: high
Watering: regular
2. Aloe vera
Anyone can grow this plant. It, like ficus, helps fight formaldehyde and benzene.
Required light level: high
Watering: regular
3. Sansevieria tristripe
This houseplant is also called "Team-in-Law". It is one of the most effective air purifiers. In addition, it can even be placed in the bathroom.
Required light level : any
Watering : moderate
4. Mulberry chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemum has colorful flowers that can brighten up your home or office. The plant perfectly filters benzene contained in paints, plastics, adhesives, and detergents.
Required light level : high
Watering : regular
5. Dracaena bordered
This flower will add color to your interior. The plant can grow up to several meters. It helps to fight the substances present in varnishes and coatings.
Required light level : any
Watering : regular
6 Ideal for trichlorethylene removal.
Required light level : high
Watering : regular
7. Scindapsus aureus
This plant also helps fight formaldehyde. Great for placement in a garage to deal with exhaust fumes.
Light Level Required : Any
Watering : Moderate
8
Light level required : high
Watering : regular
9. Common ivy
The necessary illumination level : moderate
Watering : regular
10.
Bamboo palmas
This palm tree is capable of growing even in shady places and is one of the best natural filters of benzene, formaldehyde and trichloleetillene.
Required light level : high
Watering : abundant
Thus, indoor plants are not only a living decoration, but also a great helper in protecting your health. Having a small garden in your home is useful and aesthetically pleasing.
By the way, you can decorate a corner with houseplants with interior stickers in the form of butterflies or birds. So you will give it an even fresher and more original look:
15 of the best indoor flowers that should be in every home
Inhabitants of a home green corner are usually selected for their attractive appearance. Bright beautiful foliage and lush long-term flowering are appreciated. However, not everyone knows that decorative cultures can not only please the eye, but also be beneficial.
We have put together a selection of these. We present the best indoor plants and flowers for an apartment and a private house.
All about the best indoor plants
Why they are useful
What decorative and flowering crops should be grown at home
— Aloe
— Begonia
— Crassula ovata
— Echinopsis
— Myrtle
— Ficus
— Dracaena
— Zamioculkas
— Chlorophytum
— Philodendron
— Ciprofortunella
— Monstera
— Sheffler
— Saintpaulia
— Hibiscus
It seems that beautiful greenery or lush flowers are all that indoor plants can please their owner. In fact, this is not so. They have many useful properties. We list the most significant of them.
- Absorption of electromagnetic radiation that comes from household appliances.
- Absorption of carbon dioxide produced by the respiration of humans and animals. In return, indoor crops release oxygen, thereby improving the quality of the air.
- Absorption of toxins, heavy metals and some dust.
- Destruction of bacteria and fungi. A pronounced antiseptic effect heals the atmosphere.
- Therapeutic and cosmetic effect. Some cultures help in the treatment of cuts, burns, and other wounds. They are used by cosmetologists and dermatologists.
These are all statements confirmed by scientists. There is one more fact, not scientifically confirmed, but proven over the years: some indoor plants are able to harmonize family relationships, have a beneficial effect on the health and well-being of their owners.
1. Aloe
The second name is agave or rannik. This is a decorative succulent that forms rosettes of prickly fleshy leaves at the roots. It is famous for its medicinal properties: it has antiseptic properties, helps with various diseases of the skin and internal organs, and is used in cosmetology. The most useful specimens are considered to be five years old and older.
The bush is unpretentious, easily multiplies. It can be dangerous for pets and children, so aloe is placed in a place that is hard to reach for them.
2. Begonia
Unpretentious flowering plant. There are several hundred of its varieties. Begonias are valued for their beautiful flowers. They are quite large, different colors. With good care, it can bloom almost all year round. Effectively cleans the air from dust particles, has an antiseptic effect. The flower is unpretentious, able to endure a short dry period. Needs high humidity and lighting for at least 12 hours a day.
3. Crassula ovata
The second name is money tree or fat woman. This is a bush with fleshy thick leaves. The stems become woody with age, which allows the formation of bonsai trees. There are several hundred varieties of crassula. Among those grown indoors, there are bright green, light green and silver varieties. The border on the leaves also varies: from pale yellow to bright red.
The fat woman does not need abundant watering and spraying, rarely gets sick and is almost not damaged by pests. But she has weak stems that break easily. Crassula is toxic to animals. It is believed that brings wealth to the house.
4. Echinopsis
Young cacti resemble a curled up hedgehog, which is why they got their name from the Greek echino, hedgehog. As they grow, they stretch. Individual specimens grow up to 2 m. In spring or early summer, echinopsis blooms. The cactus is unpretentious, easily multiplies, tolerates adverse conditions well. It absorbs electromagnetic radiation harmful to humans, for which it is especially appreciated.
5. Myrtle
One of the best indoor plants for the home. It is believed to bring prosperity and happiness.
This is a small tree with small green leaves that blooms very beautifully. It releases essential oils and aromatic substances into the air, which destroy pathogenic microflora and disinfect the room.
Due to the pronounced smell, it is not recommended to keep myrtle in the bedroom. The bush easily tolerates pruning, it can be given any shape. The plant does not tolerate a lack of light and too dry air.
6. Ficus
Beautiful exotic species with dozens of varieties. It is valued for its decorative appearance, bright lush foliage. In addition, ficus absorbs toxic substances from the air. Unpretentious, grows very quickly. Even a novice florist can grow it. Most varieties bloom only in nature. Some varieties of ficus are capable of provoking an allergic reaction, toxic to animals.
7. Dracaena
Treelike perennial resembling a small palm tree. Grow it in one or two or three trunks. Young stems are soft and easy to shape. Dracaena contains phytoncides that destroy pathogenic microflora. The plant is quite unpretentious. He needs rare watering, but the humidity of the air should be high. Sensitive to lighting - it should be bright, but diffused.
In room conditions, the mini-tree almost never blooms.
8. Zamioculkas
The second name is the dollar tree, because many believe that the bush "attracts" money. This is a herbaceous plant with unusual rachis leaves that develop directly from nodules hidden in the ground. Each rachis has several small feathery leaves. It grows very slowly, so it is worth taking care of its reproduction in advance. Easily tolerates a short drought, does not need spraying and frequent watering. Zamiokulkas rarely blooms. The flower is obtained in the form of an ear, closed by a peduncle - "veil", often not even noticeable.
9. Chlorophytum
A flower that should definitely be in every home. This is a very unpretentious herbaceous perennial with a short stem and tuberous roots. Grows very fast, easy to propagate. Chlorophytum is not sensitive to light, can withstand long periods without watering and without spraying. It purifies the air in the room from dust particles and pathogenic microflora, therefore it is recommended for allergy sufferers.
Absorbs toxins and harmful impurities from the atmosphere.
10. Philodendron
Ornamental foliage exotic from the South American tropics. There are several hundred varieties, among which there are shrubby, epiphytic, terrestrial forms and lianas. All have beautiful leaves of different shapes and sizes. In addition, philodendrons are able to regulate indoor humidity and produce a lot of oxygen. They purify the air of formaldehydes, special substances found in the leaves kill the pathogenic microflora. With good care, flowering is possible. It does not last long, on average, a day or two.
11. Citrofortunella
The second name is lemon tree. This is a citrus hybrid, an evergreen ornamental tree. At home, it blooms and bears fruit. The fruits are edible, with good taste characteristics. Citrofortunella produces a large amount of essential oils. They smell good and disinfect the air in the room where the tree stands.
The culture does not tolerate dry air. In winter, it needs to be illuminated - a lack of light provokes diseases. The branches of the lemon tree are covered with sharp thorns, so you need to take care of it carefully.
12. Monstera
Another South American exotic and one of the trendy indoor flowers for interior decoration. It is an evergreen vine with large leaves. Young leaves are entire, as they grow, gradually increasing cuts appear on them. Monstera is growing rapidly, for which beginner flower growers love it. She needs plenty of light and high humidity. Liana blooms very rarely, the fruits formed after flowering are edible. Its juice is toxic, so monstera is carefully grown in homes with children or pets.
13. Schefflera
Another ornamental crop with unusually shaped leaves that resemble small umbrellas. Sheffler is a distant relative of ginseng. It is famous for its ability to cleanse the atmosphere of toxins and pathogenic microflora.
The bush is unpretentious, undemanding to growing conditions. The only difficulty is the organization of additional lighting in the winter. At home, sheffler almost does not bloom. Handle the tree carefully, because its juice is toxic. It may cause skin irritation.
14. Saintpaulia
The second name is uzambar violet. Low herbaceous perennial with beautiful flowers. There are many varieties: with double or simple flowers, with wavy or corrugated petals. The colors are very different: they distinguish monophonic, variegated, edged flowers. With good care, violet blooms almost all year round. It is believed that it has a beneficial effect on a person: it calms him down, pushes him to make the right decisions, and relieves insomnia. Saintpaulia needs high humidity, but does not tolerate spraying, waterlogging leads to rotting of the roots.
15. Hibiscus
It is also called Chinese rose, although the culture has nothing to do with roses.
