Have you noticed how ornamental plants are becoming increasingly popular in our homes? It’s no coincidence. With increasing urbanization and the lack of green spaces in cities, bringing a bit of nature indoors has become a growing trend. In fact, studies show that growing plants indoors not only improves the aesthetics of the space, but also offers a number of benefits for our health and well-being.
In this article, we aim to ease your entry into this green universe by presenting 10 ornamental plants that are easy to grow at home. If you’re a beginner or have a hectic routine, don’t worry: all the plants we’ve selected require little maintenance and adapt well to indoor environments. What’s more, they’re beautiful and versatile, perfect for adding a touch of life and color to your space.
Before we dive into the list, let’s talk a little about how we chose these plants. We considered three main criteria: they are low-maintenance, have a unique beauty and are adaptable to different types of indoor environments. So get ready to discover some of the best options for turning your home into a green oasis, hassle-free!
Benefits of Growing Ornamental Plants at Home
Bringing ornamental plants into the home goes beyond simply decorating the environment. Let’s explore the incredible benefits they can offer, from improving air quality to boosting our mental well-being.
Improving Air Quality
Did you know that some ornamental plants act as natural air purifiers? That’s right! Plants such as the Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) and the St. George’s Wort (Sansevieria trifasciata) are known for their ability to filter out common toxins in the air, such as formaldehyde, benzene and trichloroethylene. In a world where we spend so much time indoors, these plants not only beautify the space, but also help to create a healthier environment for us all.
Mental well-being
Have you ever noticed how much calmer you feel around plants? It’s no coincidence. Studies show that having plants at home can reduce stress, increase feelings of happiness and even improve concentration. Caring for plants offers a moment of pause, where we can reconnect with nature, even in the midst of the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It’s like bringing a little oasis into our home, contributing to our emotional well-being.
Decoration and aesthetics
In addition to all their health benefits, ornamental plants are a real treat for the eyes. They can transform any environment, bringing color, life and texture. Whether it’s to add a touch of green to your home office or to create a focal point in the living room, ornamental plants are versatile and adapt to any style of decoration. And best of all? They never go out of style!
Tips for Choosing the Right Plants
Choosing the ideal ornamental plants for your space is a crucial part of ensuring that they thrive and bring all the benefits we’ve mentioned. Let’s explore some essential tips to help you make the best choices.
Understand Your Space
Before you go out buying plants, it’s important to assess your space. How much natural light do you have available? Some spaces receive direct light all day long, while others can be more shaded. If you have a space with little light, for example, plants such as Zamioculca (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) are perfect, as they adapt well to low light conditions. Also consider the size of the space and the humidity, as some plants need more space to grow and others prefer more humid environments.
Maintenance level
Let’s be honest: not all of us have the time (or the patience) to look after demanding plants. If you have a hectic routine or are just starting out in the world of gardening, it’s a good idea to choose low-maintenance plants. Succulents, for example, are famous for being almost indestructible and require very little water. The important thing is to find plants that suit your lifestyle and that you can care for easily.
Personal preferences
At the end of the day, the most important thing is that you like the plants you choose. Think about the plants that really appeal to you, whether it’s their appearance, their scent or their symbolic meaning. They should fit in with the design of your home and reflect your personal taste. After all, gardening is a form of expression, and your space should be a reflection of what you love.
The 10 Ornamental Plants that are Easy to Grow at Home
Let’s explore some of the easiest plants to grow at home, perfect for bringing life and beauty to your space with minimal effort.
1. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos, also known as Jiboia, is one of the most popular plants for indoor environments, and for good reason. With its green, variegated leaves, Pothos not only adds a touch of color to your space, but also helps purify the air. To care for this plant, simply place it in a spot with indirect light and water it when the soil is dry to the touch. It is a very tolerant plant and can thrive in a variety of conditions, making it ideal for beginners.
2. Jiboia (Scindapsus pictus)
The Jiboia is another fantastic plant to have in your home. With its silvery green leaves and velvety texture, it brings an elegant touch to any room. This plant prefers indirect light and well-drained soil. Place it in a hanging basket or let its leaves fall gracefully from a high shelf. As well as being visually charming, the Jiboia is known for its ability to purify the air, which is always a bonus!
3. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
The Peace Lily is a plant with dark green leaves and white flowers that exude simplicity and elegance. This plant is perfect for low-light areas and needs regular watering to keep the soil slightly moist. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the Peace Lily is famous for its ability to remove toxins from the air, making it a healthy addition to your space.
4. Zamioculca (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
Known as Zamioculca or ZZ Plant, this plant is practically fail-safe. It adapts well to different light levels, from bright indirect light to low light conditions. Zamioculca only needs to be watered when the soil is completely dry, making it an ideal choice for those who tend to forget to water their plants. What’s more, its shiny, robust leaves add a modern, elegant touch to any environment.
5. Succulents
Succulents are a diverse group of plants that come in all shapes and sizes, from the small and discreet Sedum to the dramatic Echeveria. They are perfect for small spaces and need very little water, which makes them ideal for those with a busy schedule. Place them in a sunny spot and water them sporadically to prevent root rot. Succulents are also great for creative gardening projects, such as mini gardens or terrariums.
6. Rafflesia palm (Rhapis excelsa)
The Rafflesia Palm is a classic choice for those who want to add a tropical touch to their home interior. It prefers bright indirect light and needs regular watering to keep the soil moist but not soggy. This tall, graceful plant can serve as an impressive centerpiece in your living room, adding an exotic touch to the decor.
7. Lucky bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)
Lucky Bamboo is easy to care for and is known for its symbolism of good luck and prosperity, especially in offices and work areas. It can be grown in both soil and water and prefers indirect light. Just change the water regularly or keep the soil slightly damp. Its vertical and elegant growth makes it ideal for small spaces, where it can add a touch of green without taking up too much space.
8. St. George’s Sword (Sansevieria trifasciata)
The St. George’s Sword is one of the most durable plants you can have. It is extremely hardy and can survive in low light conditions, although it prefers bright indirect light. This plant is almost indestructible and only needs to be watered occasionally. In addition to its resistance, the St. George’s Sword is also an excellent air purifier, removing toxins and releasing oxygen during the night.
9. Ficus lyrata
Known as the Fiddle Leaf Fig, Ficus lyrata is a highly desirable indoor plant thanks to its large, bright green leaves. It stands out in modern environments and prefers bright, indirect light. Water it when the soil is dry to the touch, and it will reward you with robust and impressive growth. This plant is ideal for creating a focal point in any room.
10. Philodendron (Philodendron spp.)
The Philodendron is a classic and versatile plant, available in several varieties, such as the Philodendron-brasil and the Philodendron-bipinnatifidum. They are easy to care for, preferring indirect light and watering when the soil is slightly dry. Philodendron is popular due to its adaptability and ability to grow in both hanging and floor pots, adding a vibrant green touch to your home.
General Maintenance Tips
Keeping your ornamental plants happy and healthy is simpler than it sounds, especially with a few practical tips in mind. Let’s take a look at the essential care that will help your plants thrive.
Watering and humidity
The key to watering ornamental plants is consistency. Most plants prefer the soil to partially dry out between waterings, so it’s important to test the soil’s moisture before watering again. A simple tip is to stick your finger about an inch into the soil; if it’s dry, it’s time to water. For plants that like humidity, such as tropicals, you can place a dish of water and stones under the pot or use a humidifier.
Light and temperature
Positioning your plants in the right place makes all the difference. Most ornamental plants thrive in indirect light, but the amount of light needed can vary. Plants such as St. George’s Sword and Zamioculca are more tolerant and can cope with little light, while Ficus lyrata loves bright, indirect light. As for temperature, most indoor plants prefer environments between 18°C and 24°C, away from cold drafts or intense heat.
Fertilizing and replanting
Fertilizing your plants every two months during spring and summer can promote healthy growth. Opt for a balanced fertilizer, diluted according to the instructions on the package. When replanting, watch the roots; if they start to come out of the drainage holes, it’s time to move to a bigger pot. When replanting, choose a pot that is just a little larger to avoid excess water in the soil.
Conclusion
Growing ornamental plants at home goes far beyond simply adding a touch of green to your indoor spaces. As we’ve seen, plants can improve air quality, bring peace and tranquillity to the environment and even contribute to our mental well-being. The simple act of caring for a plant can provide a calming break in our day, and who wouldn’t like a little more serenity in their life?
What’s more, ornamental plants are a wonderful way to express your creativity and personality through decoration. Whether it’s placing a sturdy St. George’s Sword in a darker corner, or displaying an imposing Ficus Lyrata in a bright room, the options are practically endless.
Now that you know the benefits and some of the best easy-to-grow plant options, why not take the next step? Choose one or two of the plants we’ve mentioned and start creating your own little oasis at home. Remember, no matter how big your space or how much experience you have, there’s always a plant that fits your needs perfectly.
Planting and cultivating is an affordable, rewarding activity and, above all, a fantastic way to bring more life and joy into your home. So how about giving yourself this gift? Let’s make your home greener and more welcoming together!
