There's no beating about the bush, these plants are big on style and (relatively) low on upkeep - perfect for even the most scatty of plant parents. Brighten up your living space with these blooming marvellous plants.
03 February, 2021
There's no beating about the bush, these plants are big on style and (relatively) low on upkeep - perfect for green-fingered regulars at London's Columbia Road Flower Market, as well as those late bloomers who have killed several succulents. We've found the bold evergreens, trailing vines and air-purifying leaves guaranteed to add a little Zen to your work-from-home office.
(Pilea peperomioides)
Hit the jackpot with the Chinese money plant. Its idiosyncratic, circular leaves (hence why it is sometimes called the "pancake plant") add a pop of character to any windowsill. Just remember to turn the pot every few days or else it will start leaning towards the light.
(Sansevieria trifasciata)
With rigid, sword-like leaves, the so-called "mother-in-law's tongue" is a go-to for those sans green fingers - it can go for a few weeks without water. Just dust the leaves every now and then. Keep it in the bedroom; snake plants help remove air pollutants and produce oxygen.
(Monstera deliciosa)
Fittingly, this plant's Latin name translates to "delicious monster" - you've likely seen these delectably distinctive, glossy leaves sprouting all over Instagram. Let it dry out a little between waterings, but mist every few days. Bright, indirect light is best.
(Epipremnum aureum)
A hands-off option for newbie plant parents, this evergreen vine is among the most popular houseplants owing to its good looks (we love it trailing over a bookshelf) and hardy sensibility - it'll manage just fine in low light and thrives even when watered infrequently.
(Spathiphyllum wallisii)
Thanks to its racing-green leaves and elegant flowers, the peace lily (not actually part of the lily family) injects tranquillity to even the shadiest home - though you'll need a bright spot if you want more blooms. Native to tropical rainforests, this air-purifying plant loves humidity
(Howea forsteriana)
With a small footprint and lofty, arching leaves, this plant adds a touch of the exotic to shady corners. Queen Victoria was a fan - she asked for palms to be placed around her coffin. Mist twice weekly and keep out of direct rays. Water only when the top 5cm of soil feels dry. Like this but lack the space? Try a parlour palm instead.
(Ficus lyrata)
With leaves shaped like the lyre harp used by ancient Greeks, this statement West African evergreen is a popular choice among the beau monde of the houseplant world. Warning: this plant does require a touch of TLC. Don't be broken-hearted if (when) it drops a few leaves.
This image is on holiday
(Dracena fragrans)
Also known as a dragon tree, this tall, cane-like plant has all the prettiness of a palm minus with even less of the maintenance. If yours is really thriving, it might even bloom a trail of scented flowers. Best kept in filtered sunlight with good humidity - ideal for bathrooms.
(Aloe barbadensis)
Sure, this double-duty plant looks glam and acts fuss-free - its high moisture content means that it doesn't need frequent watering. Yet what we love most about the aloe is its practical uses. Slice off a leaf and use the inside gel to relieve burns, cold sores and eczema.
(Adiantum raddianum)
Boston tends to be the most common fern variety in homes, but we're opting for this whimsical iteration. Maidenhair can be a bit precious; the leaves are likely to brown if you over-handle them. It's best suited to the bathroom as it grows around waterfalls in the wild.
