It can be challenging to know which plants are ideal for indoor settings and adequately care for them. This is why we've compiled a list of the top five indoor plants that will flourish in your home.
Many people use house plants as live creative décor and a source of joy and tranquility in the house or office. According to scientific research, there are myriad advantages to having indoor plants throughout your home, ranging from cleaner air to lively artistic décor. Indoor gardening is also beneficial in reducing stress, and increasing creativity, productivity, and concentration.
Kentia Palm (Howea Forsteriana)
The kentia palm is one of the world's most sought after indoor palms. The Lord Howe native is known for its ability to tolerate conditions that many other house plants cannot. It has large palm-shaped leaves and can grow up to a height of 12 feet. The plant flourishes in bright, indirect sunlight. Most people commonly associate the plant with immortality and eternity. The Kentia palm can grow in various soil types, from clay to loam, acidic to alkaline. Once matured, the plant is virtually drought resilient, though they don't like to be too dry or too wet, for that matter. Overall, the Kentia palm will be a great addition to your home, providing a soothing, tropical atmosphere.
African Spear Plant (Sansevieria Cylindrica or Dracaena Angolensis)
The African spear is a succulent plant with tall, gray-green leaves that are faintly striped. The species belongs to the Sansevieria genus, which has been classified into several groups but is now most commonly associated with the Dracaenaceae family. The succulent plant native to Angola grows beautifully in smaller decorative pots. The flowers aren't gorgeous, but they have a delightful scent. The African Spear Plant is mildly toxic, and you should keep it away from pets and young children. In general, African spear plants are low-maintenance. They'll live if you forget to water or feed them, and they'll thrive in a pot where they're root-bound.
Dragon Tree (Dracaena Marginata)
When it comes to tree-like houseplants, low-maintenance alternatives are hard to come by, but Dracaena marginata is an exception. Native to Madagascar, the dragon tree has lovely green sword-like leaves with scarlet edges that make it an eye-catching piece of décor wherever you place it in the house. However, you should keep it away from pets and small children because it is poisonous if ingested. In warm outdoor regions, the tree can reach 20 feet.
The Dragon Tree is more commonly grown as a potted houseplant and pruned at the height of 6 feet or less. It would be best if you ideally prepared a variety of planters in various sizes to accommodate its fast-growing root system. The Dragon Tree is mainly known for its air-purifying properties, making it a great addition to any living space. It thrives in well-drained soils with plenty of indirect sunlight.
Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
Another fascinating plant on our list is the Areca palm. This 'survivor' was initially considered an endangered species, yet it has made a remarkable comeback over the years. The palms' trunks are smooth, sometimes golden, and resemble bamboo bunches. When growing an Areca palm indoors, it's crucial to place it in a well-drained spot to avoid root rot, easily caused by wet soil. As with any other houseplant, a well-draining container is essential. The plant grows slowly to a moderate pace and is often planted in the spring. It should, ideally, be shielded from the harsh afternoon sun, as too much light can scorch the foliage. Nonetheless, areca palms are commonly used as a privacy screen when cultivated outside.
Aloe Vera (Aloe Vera)
The aloe vera plant is a simple, appealing succulent that makes an excellent indoor plant. On top of adding flair to your home's décor, you can also grow aloe vera for its many medicinal purposes. The plant has thick, greenish, fleshy leaves that fan out from the plant's central stem. Do you often forget to water your plants? If that's the case, this succulent is the perfect houseplant for you. Aloe is a relatively trouble-free plant to grow. It rarely needs a drink since it's well adapted for storing water.
For the plant's healing properties, you need to extract the gel by cutting a mature leaf and squeezing all the gel out. Aloe vera gel is supposed to be applied topically, and under no circumstances should it be consumed by humans or pets. It can induce unpleasant side effects, including nausea and indigestion, and it can even be toxic when consumed in large quantities.
Conclusion
Greenery and nature help us feel more comfortable and tranquil, enhancing our everyday mood. An indoor garden can be a haven from the stressful outside world and a source of positive energy. Whether you live in the city or suburbs, you should consider introducing one or more of these plants into your home.
