Is it just me, or are indoor plants having a moment right now? It’s hard to imagine that something as classic and mundane as a plant could ever be “out of style”, but these days nearly every home I visit could be mistaken for a greenhouse — mine included. Just the other day I found myself playing the role of “Crazy Plant Lady,” when I had to literally haul my sun-bathing plants off of my dining chairs in order to offer my guests a place to sit (and for just a split second, I considered making them stand). So because I spend countless hours tending to, shopping for and reading about plants, I’m often approached by friends with the question, What indoor plant should I get for my house? A trip to the nursery or home improvement store can be overwhelming if you don’t know what to look for, so today I thought I’d break it down: the most popular (and resilient) indoor plants, paired with their ideal personality types and growing environments. Click through, and in the comments section, tell us about your indoor plant experiences!
featured image from Mayflower Supply Co. Spring 2014 look book
If you’ve got a lot of space to fill, the Areca Palm gets the job done.
Capable of growing up to 7 ft. tall, the Areca — also known as the Bamboo Palm — makes it easy to transform your space into a tropical oasis. Though it performs best in indirect light, this dramatic indoor palm can endure your black thumb better than most.
Similar: the Rubber Plant
If you’re impatient, the Golden Pothos provides instant gratification.
This leggy, durable plant was made to be suspended from your macrame plant hanger or set atop a high bookshelf. It’s a great air purifier, thrives in moderate light, and grows rapidly, so you can achieve that overgrown boho look in no time. Best of all, once your Pothos gets too long, you can easily propagate it to make more of your favorite plant.
Similar: the Heartleaf Philodendron
If you’re forgetful, the Snake Plant is just about the most forgiving indoor plant you can find.
Gone for a couple weeks on vacation and forgot to ask someone to water your plants? Your snake plant will be the last man standing when you return home. Don’t have great lighting in your place? That’s cool too.
Similar: the Spider Plant and ZZ Plant
If you’re up for a challenge, the Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree is nothing short of that.
You’ve likely seen this sapling looking shiny and lush on your favorite design blogs, but from my experience, it doesn’t take long for leaf browning and shedding to kick in. Then again, if you’re willing to take the risk and have a well-lit space, a healthy Fiddle Leaf is about the handsomest pop-of-green you can add to your home.
Similar: the Split Leaf Philodendron
If you’re short on space, Succulents come in all shapes and sizes.
Though they require bright light (and in my opinion, are more temperamental than they’re given credit for), Succulents are the perfect solution for anyone who’s low on square footage and on a budget. The smallest ones cost as little as 2 dollars, and when grouped with other Succulents, a lovely terrarium is born. Want yours to really thrive? Let them spend some time outside in direct sunlight.
