Tropical house plants come in all shapes and sizes. In general, most prefer medium light, moderately moist soil, and home temperatures between 55 – 80 degrees F.
On that note, check out below and see the FIVE I RECOMMEND! Chosen first and foremost because they are very easy to grow, which, when you have a busy lifestyle:
Coming home to greenery that doesn’t kill you to maintain is important!
5 Tropical House Plants that are Easy and Forgiving!
- 1. Spathyphyllium – Peace Lilly Plant. This tropical like foliage plant is very easy to grow. It is also one of the few plants that will FLOWER (white) in low light. Large, oval, dark green glossy leaves arch from stalks and grow directly from the soil. Growing Conditions: Spathyphyllium enjoys a humid environment with temperatures between 60 to 70 degrees. Go with filtered light, avoiding hot sunny locations, and keep the soil moist, like a squeezed out sponge. In the winter, water less, and wait until the top inch of soil dries out. Also use a loose porous potting soil.
- 2. Chamaedorea elegans – Parlor Palm. If you are looking for an easy foliage tropical plant that will grow in low light…here’s your Palm! Parlor palm is a feathery leaved plant that ultimately will grow between 3 to 4 feet, if given adequate space. Though this plant tolerates crowded roots, you’ll probably want to repot every 2 to 3 years, using a slightly larger pot with good quality potting soil. Chamaedorea have a reputation for being the easiest of palms to grow indoors. They are slow growers and need good drainage and ample water.
- 3. Ficus elastica – Rubber Plant. Easy to tree/shrub to grow. Sizable leaves are glossy, leathery and dark green. Leaf size is between 8 – 12 inches long and 4 – 6 inches wide. Growing Conditions: Ficus, in general, enjoy bright, reflected light & average room temperatures. You can use a complete fertilizer throughout the year, with the exception fall and winter. For this particular fig, allow the soil to dry out somewhat between waterings. Pest issues are minimal, but those like aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, scale and thrips can become an issue.
- 4. Philodendron cordatum – Heart Leaf Philodendron. This is a trailing (which makes it perfect for a hanging basket) or a climbing Philodendron. It’s also an extremely easy houseplant to grow. Native to Southern Brazil and Growth habit: When grown unsupported it may reach up to 12″ in height. With support this vine can reach up to 6 feet.
- 5. Monstera – Split leaf Philodendron or Swiss Cheese Plant. This large tropical vine has heart shaped leathery leaves which at first, when the plant is still young, will have no split. However, as the plant ages, the gigantic leaves will become more finally cut and be very interesting. To grow Monstera vertically you’ll want to provide the plant something, like a moss covered poll, for support. Growing Conditions: bright light is preferred, as are warm temperatures and high humidity. Keep soil moist, like a wet sponge but avoid sogginess. You may want to fertilize regularly except in winter. Size: Monstera can grow to 15 feet tall by 8 feet wide.
What Makes Each Indoor Plant Special?
Spathyphyllium you can look forward to lovely white spathe flowers.
Chamaedorea is the easiest of palm style plants, great for a small condo or apartment!
Philodendron cordatum is so easy to train to grow up a feature on the wall. I’ve had one growing (photo left) in my bathroom for over 10 years and really love it.
Ficus elastica is great if you are looking for a slightly larger plant. With the right conditions, this plant can reach ceiling height, growing more than 10 feet tall.
Monstera is the # 1 choice if you’re looking for dramatic, bold foliage. Only thing is that where the other plants mentioned are easy to grow, this one might require more TLC.
Happy Gardening,
