Add style to your home with these 10 underrated houseplants
Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a beginner exploring the wonderful world of plant cultivation for the first time, you're likely on the lookout for unique plants for the home.
The variety of plant species is extensive, and even within the most popular categories for indoor cultivation, there are numerous distinct varieties that make them more captivating than their more commonly-grown relatives. Because of the wide array of choices, it's easy to feel overwhelmed or uncertain about which plant suits your home environment best.
If you're in search of ideas to bring a fresh but distinctive green vibe to your home, check out this list of 10 underrated indoor plants. We'll highlight lesser-known specimens that can add class to your home and impress your guests with their splendid beauty:
1. Peperomia obtusifolia
Perfect for small apartments due to their compact size, plants of the Peperomia genus are hardy and ideal for less experienced gardeners. Characterized by round, fleshy leaves in a dark green hue, they come in numerous varieties that can add color to your home with minimal care. Simply place them in bright sunlight, preferably in a humid and warm environment. Placing them on a tray with expanded clay and water will be enough for thise hardy plants.
2. Jasminum polyanthum
Also known as white or pink jasmine, this plant is a variety of jasmine family which is suitable for indoor cultivation. It has rapid growth and enjoys climbing, so it should be placed in a location where it can do so easily. However, it also adapts well to cultivation in hanging pots. Its flowers bloom from late winter onwards, which will fill your home with a delightful fragrance.
3. Monstera adansonii
A lesser-known species within the famous Monstera genus, this plant is distinguished by its heart-shaped leaves with perforations. Like other species in this genus, it can quickly attain significant size. It thrives in abundant sunlight and high humidity, especially during the summer.
4. Rhipsalis baccifera
This unique epiphytic cactus grows on trees in nature, and has long, slender branches with a cascading and "scruffy" appearance. Its unique prperties make it perfect for cultivation on windowsills, shelves, tall furniture, and even in hanging pots. With minimal care, ensuring exposure to bright, indirect sunlight and maintaining slightly moist soil, this plant will thrive.
5. Philodendron squamiferum
A less recognized member of a commonly found genus, the Philodendron squamiferumis is known for its fuzzy-covered stems. Whether climbing or supported, this plant is highly ornamental, with large, vibrant green leaves that can span up to 30 centimeters. Low-maintenance, it doesn't demand much sunlight and thrives in moist soil.
6. Schefflera arboricola
Known as the umbrella plant due to the shape of its leaves, this plant can reach a quite substantial size and is farily demanding in terms of care. It requires good exposure to indirect sunlight, preferably near a very bright window, temperatures between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius, and a humid environment.
7. Tillandsia
Also known as air plants for their ability to thrive without soil, Tillandsia plants are often mistakenly thought to be difficult to cultivate. Simply place them in a bright location and immerse them once a week in water for 30 minutes to get them to flourish, whether hanging up or simply sitting on a shelf.
8. Beloperone guttata
Known scientifically as Justicia brandegeeana, this shrub hails from Mexico and thrives in mild climates, needing nothing more than a sunny spot. What sets it apart are its flowers, which bear a resemblance to hops (being small and adorned with arching bracts in shades of "orangey-pink").
9. Rhaphidophora decursiva
A lesser-known "sibling" of the Rhaphidophora tetrasperma, this mini monstera is a climbing plant with glossy, intense green leaves that fan out as they mature. It doesn't like direct sunlight and requires temperatures between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius, along with regular watering.
10. Aglaonema
Known as the "Chinese Evergreen," Aglaonema is a colorful, evergreen plant with elongated, often multi-colored leaves. They prefer moderate, indirect sunlight and only require watering when the soil is dry. Temperatures should be maintained above 16 degrees Celsius. Be careful if you have dogs or cats, as this plant can be toxic for them.
Have you already chosen your house plant?