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.
Love the illustrations! Who made them?
Our very own Chanel Dror watercolored them!! Aren’t they gorgeous? I’m framing one for Phoebe’s room!!
I would totally buy some of those prints – especially the succulents one! – if Chanel ever wants to sell any. 🙂
Yes! As someone who’s accidentally killed every plant she’s ever had, this was super helpful.
I love your drawings, Chanel! People stress too much about indoor plants. They add so much charm to a room, and really all they require is the proper light exposure and a once a week watering in a pot with drainage. Ficus trees are beautiful and easy to grow….. a great first plant even if you have only a north-facing window.
Thanks for the encouragement, Colette! I agree that they add so much charm, and once you get the hang of things, care and maintenance can be easy and enjoyable.
I have a collection of African Violets. My grandmother and mother both grow them, and my plants actually were propagated from theirs, so they have sentimental value.:) But after this post, I may just have to try another house plant and start my own tradition!
I am thrilled to know that I am not the only one that thinks a Fiddle leaf fig is challenging (and beautiful). I thought it was just me that could destroy one! That being said I loved the way it looked and would love to find another. Can you provide some spots to find them in Austin because it has been really hard to replace. And the bare tall branches can only pass as a hipster art piece for so long!
Haha, I’ve definitely had that “art piece” in my home before, too! Shoal Creek Nursery and The Great Outdoors both usually have great fiddle leaf figs in stock. Enjoy getting a fresh start on one, and good luck!
Chanel – these illustrations are SO GOOD!
Thanks, Jake! I’m just getting started, so hopefully they’ll get better down the road 🙂
I’m a big fan of indoor dragon trees. I’ve had one for 6 or 7 years now. When I got it, it was maybe 2 feet tall and now it’s approaching 6! It will grow as much or as little as you want, thrives in most light conditions, and doesn’t need terribly much care. Highly recommend!
xoxo,
Stile.Foto.Cibo