What’s the Perfect Indoor Plant for You?

If you’re like me, you dream of the perfect mid-century modern decor (#housegoalz). Perhaps you want to add some health benefits to your space, or some extra color without commitment. No matter your reason, plants are the perfect way to do that.

Although a single plant may not seem like too much responsibility, who are we kidding? You have to water it, give it love and sunshine, fertilize it once in awhile, maybe even change pots so it can grow...the list goes on and on. What may seem like a cute, little succulent or a plant to bring you wealth could very easily turn into a big commitment and a lot of responsibility.

To guide you in the right direction of what plant will best suit you, we created a short list of some of our favorite plants that, for the most part, require little responsibility. These plants are unique and look amazing paired with crystals, gems, or any type of decor.

The Mother-in-Law’s Tongue (Snake Plant)

mother-in-laws-tongue

 

If you’re looking for a plant that is virtually unkillable, the Mother-in-Law’s Tongue is perfect for you. It is one of the best houseplants for beginners. Although they are very forgiving, this plant prefers bright light with some sun, but they can adapt to full sun.

Between waterings, let the soil dry. During winter, reduce watering to monthly, or whenever the soil is dry to the touch. Err on the side of underwatering.

Bonus: The Mother-in-Law’s tongue filters formaldehyde, trichloroethylene, xylene, toluene, and benzene from the air.

Fun fact: In China, it was a treasured houseplant because the Eight Gods bestowed their eight virtues on those who grew them, including long life, prosperity, intelligence, beauty, art, poetry, health, and strength.

The String of Pearls

string-of-pearls

 

I’m especially drawn to the String of Pearls because it’s an unusual conversation piece. It’s easily recognizable by its leaves which grow into marble-like little balls. Its leaves grow on trailing stems and hang down the sides of the pot. And, if left alone, String of Pearls can extend up to two feet down.

Like any succulent, do not overwater. The little round pearls store water in them, so selectively water only when it needs it. Soil that is well drained (potting soil or cactus mix) is the best type of soil to plant this in to allow it to completely dry out between waterings.

As far as sunlight goes, the String of Pearls prefers light exposure that is bright but indirect. Place it near a window that will not cast direct afternoon sunlight onto the plant.

Bonus: The String of Pearls looks great hung from a ceiling or wall. Or, try placing it on a shelf and allow the stems to hang down under the shelf for some extra length and an interesting design.

The Fiddle Leaf Fig  

 

I’m sure you’ve seen the Fiddle Leaf Fig somewhere. This ubiquitous plant dominates all other plants in the competition for most popular in-house tree-like plants—and for good reason! Although some people complain they can’t keep their fiddle leaf fig alive for very long, it’s a tough plant that easily adapts to conditions. When cared for properly, a small tree can double in size in as few as six months! In it’s lifetime, the fiddle leaf fig can grow up to six feet tall. One of the main reasons some people have trouble keeping this plant alive is the lack of bright, filtered light. Give it bright, consistent light by a sunny window, turn the plant every few months, and keep it away from cold conditions.

The fiddle leaf fig only needs watered when the soil is dry to the touch. However, if you don’t water it enough, new leaves will turn brown and drop. If you overwater it, the oldest leaves will turn brown and fall off.

Bonus: The fiddle leaf fig improves air quality by providing high levels of oxygen and cleaning the air of allergens.

The Rubber Plant

rubber_tree

 

The rubber plant is one of the easiest plants to grow. It’s not too keen on moving around much, so once you find a nice space for it in your home, leave it there! It can stay as a medium-sized house plant or grow to quite an impressive height.

If you prefer the rubber plant to stay at it’s medium size, keep it in a smaller pot to restrict its growth. If you want a big, lush house plant, set it outside during the summer to encourage it’s growth and upgrade it to a bigger pot as needed.

This plant LOVES sunlight, but avoid too much heat from direct sunlight. We recommend placing it it in front of a window with sheer curtains so it receives plenty of light, but not too much.

Rubber plants don't like to sit in water, so a well-draining soil is important. If you let its surface soil dry between waterings, you will only need water your rubber plant once a week, and even less in winter—once or twice a month.

Bonus: The rubber plant cleans the air by emitting high oxygen content and purifies indoor air by removing chemicals, such as formaldehyde or other toxins.

 

Hopefully after reading this guide, you are confident and prepared to purchase a plant (or two) for your space to transform it into your decor goals, air purifying dreams, and a lush place for relaxation.

Comments

  • Posted by Laura Maas on

    Oooh wow what a great post! I am looking for good indoor plants that I cannot kill and these are some great ideas. Thanks ladies.

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