New varieties of old favorites thrive indoors
Humans have always felt the urge to bring nature indoors, according to archaeological records.
Vigorous, healthy plants adorn a house beautifully and improve air quality by removing carbon dioxide, ozone and other harmful compounds. But a sickly plant is an ugly sight. To ensure success, remember the old garden edict “right plant, right place.” Although some plants require humidity and temperature conditions best achieved in a greenhouse, many will thrive inside a home or office if their needs are met.
First, assess the light, temperature and humidity of the space. Plants, like people, have likes and dislikes. What works for a plant adapted to damp, shady locations will kill a succulent that thrives in full sun and dry soil.
A north-facing window, a cubicle or an interior room without a window are all considered low light. East- and west-facing exposures are considered medium light. A sunny windowsill that faces south is considered bright light. While plants tolerate a range of light conditions, they will do best if placed in their preferred locations. Here are some houseplant suggestions:
Low light
Cast iron plant ( Aspidistra spp.) lives up to its name, tolerating neglect and low light with occasional watering. Its dark green lanceshaped leaves grow slowly, and the plant rarely needs repotting because it tops out at 2-3 feet. Newer cultivars include variegated ‘Amonogawa’ and ‘Okame’ and the deep green ‘Fuji No Mine.’
Chinese evergreen ( Aglaonema spp.) isn’t fussy about light or moisture. Available in a range of leaf sizes from narrow to big and bold, it can sit on a desk or get big enough to sit on the floor. Look for ‘Cecelia,’ ‘Calypso,’ ‘ Maria’ and ‘Romeo.’ ZZ plant ( Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is an African native that will do just fine even if the only light
source is a fluorescent bulb. Its foliage is dark green and shiny, and it tolerates dry conditions, making it ideal for someone who travels frequently. Water when the top inch of soil dries out.
All three of the above can move to medium light locations.
Medium light
Mother-in-law’s tongue or snake plant ( Sansevieria spp.) has tough dramatic upright leaves usually slightly mottled and edged in lime and grows from a large rhizome lying just below the soil surface. It can tolerate anything except overwatering in winter. Excellent varieties include cylindrica with unique tubular leaves and ‘Bantel’s Sensation’ with long thin cream-striped leaves. Compact cultivars include gold and green ‘Gold Hahnii’ and silvery ‘Futura Robusta.’
Medium to bright light
Succulents come in a wide range, but most are adapted to the low humidity and warm conditions found in most homes. All do best in a fast-draining potting mix. Aloe vera is the classic firstaid plant. Other species and cultivars include the grayblue Aloe glauca ‘Silver Edge,’ pink mottled ‘ Pink Blush’ and ‘Walmsley’s Bronze.’ Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Most species of jade plants ( Crassula ovata) have rounded fleshy leaves, sometimes tinged in red when grown in brighter light. Some reach several feet tall and can be trained into multi-stemmed bonsai. Cultivars do not require frequent watering but do not allow their leaves to shrivel from dryness. While they might perk up with watering, this cycle stresses the plant. ‘Gollum’ has funky, pipe-shaped leaves. Chinese pine jade ( C. tetragona) has needle-like leaves and is often used in miniature gardens. C. marginata cultivars are low growing — less than a foot tall — and come in a range of colors from silver to burgundy. One popular cultivar, ‘Calico Kitten,’ has pink, cream and green leaves.
Bright light
Parlor palm ( Chamaedorea elegans) is a slowgrowing Mexican native popular since the Victorian era because it reaches 4 feet tall and makes a bold statement. This plant only needs water when the soil feels dry to the touch, but it likes to be misted occasionally in winter to increase humidity.