Trending Tropicals
Nothing gives your home a jungle-like vibe like a few well-placed tropical plants.
Don’t be intimidated by the word tropical, either. Most of these plants are easy keepers that can enrich your space with little to no effort on your part.
Alocasia
Also called Amazon elephant’s ear, alocasia have large, arrow-shaped green leaves ribbed with silver. They prefer rich but fast-draining soil and require regular fertilization. Keep them in indirect light and avoid wet roots. Also be careful around pets and children, this kind of plant can be toxic.
Anthurium
This plant puts out bright pink flowers (also called the Mexican shrimp plant) that contrast with the older, dark green leaves. Give them loose, rich potting soil that drains well, and bright, indirect light for the best color.
Birds of Paradise
Probably the most recognizable tropical, birds of paradise have large, distinctive flowers shaped like a bird. It can grow up to six feet tall and may need three to five years of growth before they flower. Keep them in bright light with some direct sun with regular water and fertilizer for best results.
Cordyline
Bold, colorful cordyline comes in a variety of colors, including a glorious purplish-red. Give cordyline a warm, draft-free location with a well-draining potting mix. Feed them weekly and keep the pH of the soil around 6-6.5 for best results.
Schefflera
Also called the umbrella plant, schefflera leaves are broad and glossy. You can get larger varieties that can sit in a warm corner giving a canopy effect that catches the eye indoors.
Plant schefflera in a rich, loose potting media with moist compost. Fertilize twice a month and keep them in bright, indirect light.
Philodendron
These plants are having a moment right now, and there are more varieties available than ever before. There are climbing and self-heading types of philodendrons, depending on where you want the plants. They want medium, indirect light and frequent watering in summer with less in the colder, darker months.
Kentia palm
Queen Victoria used Kentia palms throughout her residences. Use a fast-draining potting mix, fertilize monthly, and keep your palm in a warm and sunny spot. Let the soil dry between waterings for the best results.