Notes

15 Shocking Facts About Common Houseplants
Common Houseplants For Warm Climates

Many plants that thrive outdoors can be grown indoors. Several palms, including the robustly tolerant parlour palm and the elegant paradise palm, are thriving in indoors.

Pothos and certain varieties (such as the Crotons with variegated colors) are easy to cultivate and have beautiful foliage. Orchids require bright sunlight and constant moisture, however, let the soil dry out little between waterings.

Aroids

The aroid family is vast and includes a number of the most popular houseplants of the present. They are monocotyledonous. Many species are appreciated for their foliage rather than their flowers. They are found in a wide range of shapes, sizes and growth patterns and come in a great array of colors too. Monstera, philodendrons and colocasia are among the most common of these plants.

The understory plants usually receive the sun's rays in a diffused manner, which is why they thrive in light indirect to moderate lighting in the home. They can even tolerate some lower light conditions such as a north-facing window (just ensure that the sun isn't directly shining upon the leaves).

The majority of these plants thrive in warm, humid climates. Keep them in a container with a well-drained soil and a potting mix that offers good aeration. Aroids are prone to overwatering. Check the top two inches regularly. The excess water can cause them to lose their shape, wilt or form dark brown, soft patches.

Bromeliads

The bromeliad plants in the family have a distinct characteristic that allows them to store water within their leaves or in cups at the base of the plant. They also make use of trichomes to release water as needed. They are among the most drought-resistant houseplants. However, they still benefit from misting occasionally.

Some, such as the Guzmania and neoregelia varieties, are cultivated for their vibrant foliage which can include spots, stripes, or bands of color. Certain species, like Tillandsia or Vriesea, produce spikes with brightly colored flowers.


Some bromeliads can be kept indoors year-round, while others need to be moved outdoors during the warmer months when temperatures are above freezing. At the Safari Park, we can see bromeliads thriving in our Hidden Jungle garden. The Genus Guzmania has a wide variety of tropical plants which include the pineapple (Ananas comosus) that was introduced to Europe following Columbus' second journey to the New World in 1493.

Cacti

Cacti are a favorite choice for many to add to their homes. These unique plants are specially adapted to the desert environment and most species have spiney stems. Many produce flowers and fruits. The spines serve a purpose they are able to stop herbivores from eating the leaves and fruit.

Like other desert-adapted plants cacti can store water in their stems and roots for periods of drought. They can also utilize their stomata to store carbon dioxide throughout the day and release it during photosynthesis, which produces food for the plant.

Certain cacti, like the prickly pear (Opuntia) and the cholla, are used as living fences in Central and South America. Certain cacti, like Lophophora Williamsii (cactus Peyote), are used for their hallucinogenic effects.

Ferns

Ferns are the most common home plants you'll find, even though they lack flowers and fruits. Despite this, they're quite easy to cultivate. The most important factor to success is a well-drained growing medium that resembles the forest floor (rich in organic matter but with coarse gravel or perlite to ensure proper drainage).

The needs of a fern will determine how often it gets misted. They love the humidity of living rooms and family spaces, but If you notice the fronds becoming brown or dropping leaves, this is a sign of low humidity.

To prevent water logging or root rot, the soil should be evenly moist but not soaking wet. To check a fern's moisture just stick your finger in the soil. It should feel moist to the feel, but not wet. Avoid overwatering, because this could cause a yellowing of the fronds. Avoid direct contact with the sun and radiators since they will dry out the plant too quickly.

Begonias

Whether you're displaying them in a decorative pot in a macrame hanging basket or in a garden, begonias add vibrant colors to indoor spaces. They thrive in bright, indirect light and require a lot of humidity.

Fibrous-rooted begonias, typically categorized as bedding plants, are low maintenance and easy to grow. The most well-known series is 'Dragon Wing,' with its pink, scarlet and yellow flowers on dark-bronze or green leaves. For a compact version, try the 'Baby Wing' series, which grows to 12 to 15 inches tall.

Polka dot begonias are often sold as tall as 4' floor plants. They feature beautiful leaves with Polka-dot patterns on both sides. They need regular watering, and a regular application of liquid fertilizer. They're prone to wilting if the soil is too dry, so check the moisture level regularly. Begonias aren't too fussy about the type of soil they prefer, however they will benefit from an easy-draining, light mixture like African violet pot soil or one that is specifically made for house plants .

Palms

Palms can add a tropical feel to your home. They are commonly used as indoor plants. easy house plants require moderate maintenance and can be a statement piece in any room. They are durable, but they can be destroyed by cold temperatures, so they should be put in the garage or protected in the house during winter.

Palm leaves are referred to as pinnate or palmate, and they are generally V-shaped in cross section. The leaflets are joined together or overlapped for a portion or all of their length and are joined by a costa that is an extension of the petiole into the leaf blade.

A variety of palm species are harvested for their fruit and timber. Palms are planted as shade trees in warm climates and indoor plants for the tropical look. The peach palm, Brassica pendula, is grown as a plantation for coffee and for its edible fruit, while the tagua palm, Phytelephas aequatorialis, is used to make vegetable ivory and Rattan.

Schefflera

Scheffleras are also known as umbrella plants or octopus plant. They are among the most sought-after types of houseplants. They are easy to take care of and don't require any care.

While they can thrive in light conditions Scheffleras prefer bright indirect light. Excessive exposure to direct sunlight can cause burns to the leaves. Insufficient light can cause the plant to become weak and floppy.

Water often, but be cautious not to overwater. Overwatering could cause root rot. When repotting, choose containers that are only slightly larger than the original pot; an oversize pot will result in a lot of soil that stays moist for too long.

Keep on the lookout for insects such as aphids and scale insects and spider mites. If pests are found, you can pinch them off the plant or use a natural insecticide like Neem. If best house plants notice that the leaves are turning brown it could be due to an absence of moisture or temperature shock.

Polyscias

Polyscias literally translates to 'lots of shade' and it is exactly what this plant needs it's origins are from subtropical islands in the Pacific. It is a beautiful plant with a twisted stem and beautiful leaves. It is a great plant for a home that can create a peaceful atmosphere. The leaves contain medicinal properties and are used as a tonic, diuretic, antitoxin and to treat coughs, fevers and colds. The leaves possess anti-inflammatory properties, antifungal and antibacterial ones. Studies have also found that they contain eight new saponins of oleanolic acid (polysciosides) and three well-known ones (polyacetylenes).

Place your Polyscias in an sun-drenched area that doesn't present direct sunlight on the leaves, as this could cause them to be burned. Water the soil when it has dried, but do not overwater. This could cause root rot and even leaf dropping. Fertilise using a houseplant that is labeled feed every four days in summer, but cut back to every six weeks in autumn and winter.

Philodendrons

Philodendrons are among the most easy houseplants to cultivate and are popular for new or beginner gardeners. The classic trailing Philodendron hederaceum5 adjusts to different light conditions and is able to grow quickly. It can be grown in a hanging pot, or climb up a trellis outside in frost-free areas or spread its heart-shaped leaves across a desk and bedroom window sill inside.

Try the cultivar Congo Rojo, which has an elliptical-shaped leaf with a dark brown-purple shade. Its unique color highlights its sculptural shape and is a great choice for modern spaces with sleek furnishings or those decorated with black. Avoid overwatering philodendrons and put them in a sunny area with indirect sunlight. Overwatering may cause slowing growth and yellowing of the leaf edges. Use lukewarm, diluted water to feed the plant instead of directly into the soil. Indirectly watering into the soil could cause shock to the philodendron and cause an increase in health.

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