Houseplants have seen a major resurgence in popularity over the last few years. Millennials in particular have embraced the Instagram-worthy aesthetics and air-purifying benefits of indoor greenery. While classics like the snake plant and pothos remain ever-popular, a handful of new varieties have emerged as the “it” houseplants of the moment. Read on to discover 5 big houseplant trends you’ll likely spot in homes and offices across the country.
Monstera Deliciosa
The monstera deliciosa, also known as the Swiss cheese plant, is currently one of the most coveted houseplants around. Native to the tropical forests of southern Mexico, this stunning plant is loved for its glossy green, split leaves that develop signature holes as the plant matures.
Monsteras grow quickly and can reach up to 6 feet in indoor settings. They appreciate bright, indirect light and frequent waterings. A moss pole can be used to support the heavy vines as they grow. Propagation is easy by stem cuttings.
With its jungle vibes and sculptural foliage, it’s easy to see why the monstera has developed such a fan following. Display yours as a standout floor plant or let it climb a decorative support. Just watch out for its aerial roots grabbing onto nearby surfaces!
Fiddle Leaf Fig
With its large, vibrant green leaves, the fiddle leaf fig has become the “it” indoor tree. Native to tropical rainforests, this fig loves warm temperatures and high humidity. They can grow quite tall, sometimes reaching 10 feet or more indoors.
Fiddle leaf figs need very bright, indirect light to thrive. Let the soil dry out some between waterings and mist the leaves often. Leaf drop and brown spots can occur if conditions are too cold or dry.
These figs make a dramatic, eye-catching accent plant. Place them in front of a bright window where they’ll have room to grow. Their large, wavy leaves look especially attractive in midcentury and boho designed spaces.
Philodendron
There are hundreds of philodendron species and cultivars, but a handful stand out as particularly hot right now. Philodendron hederaceum ‘Brasil’ features bright green heart-shaped leaves with a bold yellow stripe down the center. The velvet-leafed philodendron ‘Micans’ and ruffled philodendron ‘Pink Princess’ are also very sought after.
Most philodendrons thrive in bright, indirect lighting and average room humidity. Allow the soil to dry out some between waterings. Brown leaf tips indicate too little humidity. Philodendrons grow quickly and look stunning trailing from a hanging basket or climbing up a decorative pole.
Rubber Tree
With their showy, tropical foliage, rubber trees (Ficus elastica) have become a popular choice to bring the outdoors inside. Their waxy green leaves can be solid or variegated, like the eye-catching ‘Ruby.’
Rubber trees appreciate bright, filtered light. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Mist the leaves often to replicate the humidity of their native jungle habitat.
These sturdy trees grow to 8 feet tall indoors, making them ideal floor plants. Place them against a large wall and let the foliage spread out. Their lush vibes add to any bohemian or modern space.
Calathea
Looking to add some bold patterns to your indoor garden? Enter calatheas. These tropical beauties are known for their ornate leaf designs in stripes, dots, and splashes. Species like the rattlesnake plant (Calathea lancifolia) and the peacock plant (Calathea makoyana) showcase intricate designs in green and purple hues.
Calatheas originate from Brazilian rainforests so they thrive in warm, humid conditions. Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist. Low humidity causes unattractive leaf browning in this fussy plant. Provide bright, filtered lighting.
Place calatheas where their captivating foliage can be appreciated up close. The striking patterns and colors make them ideal terrarium residents as well. Let them put an artful finishing touch on your indoor plant collection.
Caring for Trendy Houseplants
As indoor gardening has grown in popularity, many new and fascinating species have emerged on the houseplant scene. But caring for these tropical beauties in our centrally heated homes often requires taking a few extra steps:
- Provide bright, indirect lighting from an east, west, or north window. Supplement with a grow light in darker locations.
- Use room humidifiers or pebble trays to boost moisture levels around your plants.
- Water thoroughly when soil is partly dry. Check moisture daily in warmer climates.
- Mist leaves regularly to replicate tropical humidity levels.
- Use compost and organic fertilizer to nourish your plant babies.
With a little research into their preferred conditions, these finicky tropicals can thrive indoors. Pay attention to your plant’s needs and make adjustments to your care routine as the seasons change. Then sit back and enjoy these gorgeous “it” houseplants beautifying your home. Let the urban jungle living begin!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a houseplant an “it” variety?
Houseplants become trendy “it” varieties when their unique and attractive features catch the eyes of plant lovers on social media and in home decor magazines. Rare finds and plants with unusual leaf shapes, patterns, or colors often gain mass appeal.
How often should I water my trendy houseplants?
Watering frequency depends on factors like the plant variety, container size, and climate. A general rule is to water thoroughly once the top inch or two of soil is dry. Tropicals often prefer consistently moist (but not soggy) soil. Get to know your plant’s needs.
Should I mist my indoor houseplants?
Misting is beneficial for many tropical houseplants to increase humidity around the leaves. Use room temperature purified water and mist plants like calatheas daily. Allow the moisture to dry between mistings to prevent diseases.
What are signs my houseplant needs more humidity?
Indoor tropicals will show signs like dry, crunchy leaf tips and margins or dull, drooping leaves when the air is too dry. Boost humidity through pebble trays, room humidifiers, and daily misting. Group plants together for a microclimate effect.
How can I encourage my new houseplant to grow well?
Getting your new houseplant off to a good start begins with observing its needs and adjusting your care routine accordingly. Provide the right lighting, humidity, watering frequency, and well-draining soil. Fertilize regularly during the growing season for strong new growth.
Conclusion
Urban jungle living is here to stay. The current generation of indoor gardeners has ushered in a new era of trendy tropical houseplants. From statuesque Monstera deliciosa to patterned painterly Calathea, these plants lend bold style and sculptural beauty to living spaces. Caring for these temperamental tropicals is easier when you understand their light, humidity, and water needs in an indoor habitat. With a little TLC, your own collection of trendy houseplants will flourish indoors!