The Best Indoor Plants To Bring The Outside In

The allure of nature is undeniable, and for those of us who spend much of our time indoors, bringing a bit of the outdoors inside can be a rejuvenating experience. Indoor plants not only add a splash of colour to your living space but also offer a myriad of health benefits, from purifying the air to boosting your mood.

These are five of the best indoor plants that are perfect for bringing the outside in. We’ll explore their unique characteristics, care requirements, and the specific benefits they offer.

 

1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

 

The Spider Plant, native to tropical and southern Africa, is a classic choice for indoor gardening. Its long, arching leaves create a cascade of green that is both calming and aesthetically pleasing. The plant gets its name from its “pups,” which dangle from the mother plant like spiders on a web. These pups can be easily propagated, making the Spider Plant a gift that keeps on giving.

Care

• ・Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some shade.
• ・Water: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between watering.
• ・Temperature: Thrives in temperatures between 15-23°C.

Benefits

• ・Air Purifying: Known to remove pollutants like formaldehyde and xylene.
• ・Pet-Friendly: Non-toxic to cats and dogs.
• ・Easy to Propagate: Simply snip off a pup and place it in water or soil.

 

2. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)

 

Originating from West Africa, the Snake Plant is renowned for its hardiness and unique, upright leaves. The leaves have a striking pattern that resembles the scales of a reptile, hence the name. This plant is almost indestructible and can survive in less-than-ideal conditions, making it perfect for beginners.

Care

• ・Light: Can thrive in anything from low to bright light.
• ・Water: Water sparingly, every 2-3 weeks.
• ・Temperature: Does well in temperatures ranging from 18-27°C.

Benefits

• ・Improves Air Quality: One of the few plants that perform photosynthesis at night, improving air quality around the clock.
• ・Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care.
• ・Versatile: Can be placed in various light conditions and still thrive

 

3. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

 

Image Credit: https://unsplash.com/photos/a-couple-of-potted-plants-sitting-on-top-of-a-table-gqbX_YUy4Eo

The ZZ Plant hails from East Africa and is a modern favourite, known for its glossy, dark green leaves. The plant has a unique rhizome structure that stores water, making it incredibly drought-tolerant. It’s the go-to plant for those who travel frequently or tend to forget watering.

Care

• ・Light: Adaptable to a range of light conditions, from low to bright.
• ・Water: Water every 2-3 weeks.
• ・Temperature: Prefers temperatures between 18-24°C.

Benefits

• ・Drought-Tolerant: Can survive long periods without water.
• ・Air Purifying: Known to remove toxins like xylene and toluene.
• ・Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care and attention.

 

4. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

 

Native to the tropical rainforests of America and Southeast Asia, the Peace Lily is a beautiful plant that produces white, sail-like flowers. These flowers aren’t just pretty; they also work to purify the air. The Peace Lily is a symbol of peace, purity, and prosperity, making it a popular choice for homes and offices alike.

Care

• ・Light: Prefers low to medium light but can tolerate bright, indirect light.
• ・Water: Water when the soil feels dry to the touch.
• ・Temperature: Thrives in temperatures between 18-26°C.

Benefits

• ・Air Purifying: Effective in removing airborne toxins like ammonia.
• ・Easy to Care For: Requires minimal maintenance.
• ・Blooms Indoors: One of the few indoor plants that flower.

 

5. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

Image credit: https://unsplash.com/photos/green-and-white-leaf-plant-X4TF6LFEr0w

Originating from the Solomon Islands, Pothos is a popular trailing plant with heart-shaped leaves. The leaves can have a variety of patterns, from solid green to marbled with yellow or white. This plant is incredibly versatile and can be hung from the ceiling, placed on a shelf, or even trained to climb a trellis.

Care

• ・Light: Prefers low to bright, indirect light.
• ・Water: Water when the soil is dry to the touch.
• ・Temperature: Does well in temperatures ranging from 18-27°C.

Benefits

• ・Air Purifying: Known to remove pollutants like benzene and formaldehyde.
• ・Easy to Propagate: Cuttings can be easily rooted in water.
• ・Versatile in Placement: Can be hung or placed in various locations around the home.

 

The best indoor plants are more than just decorative items; they are companions that bring life, colour, and a slice of nature into our homes. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a complete novice, the plants listed above offer a range of options to suit various care levels and living conditions. So go ahead, bring the outside in and let your indoor space flourish!

 

Header image credit: https://unsplash.com/photos/green-plant-in-white-ceramic-pot-8ZELrodSvTc