51 Indoor Green Plants for a Healthier Home

Scientifically known as Cocos nucifera, the coconut palm is one of the most widely planted species worldwide, valued both for its ornamental appeal and its fruits. It originates from sandy tropical beaches in the Pacific, Indian Ocean, and the Caribbean.

It can be grown in pots and is a striking plant that adds a tropical touch to any space. However, due to its origins, it requires specific care that should not be overlooked.

Key care for the coconut palm includes:

• Requires a lot of light, including direct sunlight during the colder months.
• Being a tropical plant, it does not tolerate temperatures below 21 ºC (70 ºF), and below 16 ºC (60 ºF) can cause damage.
• Keep it away from air conditioners or heaters that can dehydrate the plant or expose it to extreme temperatures.
• Water regularly and abundantly, as the coconut palm likes humidity. Mist its leaves during summer or use humidifiers for optimal health.

Known scientifically as Plectranthus Australis, it is said that if you care for it properly, you will not face financial difficulties. Regardless of this superstition, its many varieties are popular for enhancing interiors with their beautiful green foliage.

The majority of Plectranthus Australis are trailing plants, making it easiest to maintain by placing them in pots or hanging baskets. They are relatively simple to care for and very decorative, ideal for novice gardeners.

They require a good amount of light but should be kept out of direct sunlight. In warm months, they benefit from fertilizing every two weeks. Yellowing leaves may indicate a nitrogen deficiency.

Image: plantandpot

Commonly known as aloe vera, or by its local names like sábila, it is a charming succulent originating from the Arabian region but it has spread across subtropical and temperate areas in both hemispheres.

While its bright yellow flowers can be quite eye-catching, aloe vera serves as a fabulous decorative plant year-round due to its striking green, serrated leaves. It is a resilient plant with many medicinal properties.

As with many succulents, proper care hinges on the substrate: it must offer good drainage. Ensure that the pot has drainage holes and position the plant in the brightest light possible without direct sun exposure. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot. Depending on the climate, watering may be reduced to monthly during colder months. If leaves turn brown, the plant may be receiving too much sunlight and may benefit from being moved to a shadier spot and lightly misted.

Scientifically referred to as Beaucarnea recurvata or Nolina recurvata, this succulent originates from Mexico and Central America. Its unique shape, which means it stores water in the base of its trunk, earns it the common name elephant foot.

Though in the wild they can reach considerable heights, when grown in a pot they typically do not exceed one to one and a half meters, making it a large but manageable indoor plant. It requires bright light and thrives in well-draining soil, and like other succulents, it dislikes overwatering.

Known scientifically as Dracaena fragans Massageana, this robust dracaena hails from Brazil, as indicated in its common name, and is a classic choice in indoor plants.

Its popularity comes from its large deep green leaves and strikingly vertical growth habit, showcasing an aesthetic thick stem. As a tropical species, its care needs to reflect its origins.

The Brazilian tree requires high humidity both in the air and soil. Mist its leaves with warm water every two to three days. It is not a fan of cold temperatures, suffering when exposed to 14 ºC (57 ºF) or lower. Its ideal temperature ranges around 24 ºC (75 ºF). Finally, avoid placing it in draughty areas, which can stress the plant. Here you can find a guide on how to care for the Brazilian tree and its propagation.

Known to many as pothos or devil’s ivy, its scientific name is Epipremnum aureum. This climbing plant, originally from tropical areas, is recognized for its vibrant green leaves, often adorned with creamy markings.

When given the right support to climb, it can reach up to 20 meters in height, although it typically remains much smaller when grown in pots. Its heart-shaped leaves are evergreen and maintain a modest size unless they start climbing.

Pothos is incredibly hardy and thrives wherever it is placed, so long as it gets bright indirect light. However, be cautious not to overwater, and if you wish to encourage leaf growth, gentle misting with warm water can be beneficial.

Commonly known as Monstera deliciosa or the Swiss Cheese Plant, it is easily recognized by its enormous, deeply lobed leaves reminiscent of a rib cage.

This tropical climber hails from the jungles of Mexico and is highly valued for its ability to create a natural, lush atmosphere in any indoor space. When cultivated indoors, it does not flower, but its unique leaves are enough to capture attention.

It thrives in temperatures above 5 ºC (41 ºF) and prefers bright locations with indirect sunlight. When watering, allow the top layer of soil to dry out between waterings. The plant does not require misting, as it can tolerate drier environments.

The African Asparagus Fern or Asparagus densiflorus is native to South Africa and has spread to various regions, commonly found in Mediterranean climates. While often overlooked at first glance, it’s a charming plant that can vivify your home with minimal effort.

It typically reaches heights of just under half a meter, making it perfect for indoor pots. Its woody stems are incredibly dense with tiny cylindrical leaves in a vibrant green, often adorned with delicate flowers. The African Asparagus Fern prefers bright or semi-shady spots, requires good drainage, and should be watered less frequently. It does not tolerate cold temperatures very well, so keep it protected. Beware that it is toxic to pets if ingested.

The term Yucca commonly refers to a group of hardy plants, with Yucca elephantipes, or elephant foot yucca, being one of the most popular due to its size and resilience.

This plant hails from Central America and is usually cultivated by planting multiple stems of varying heights in a single pot to create visual interest. Its key requirement is light, capable of thriving in direct sunlight as it prefers.

Avoid overwatering, as this can harm the plant, and remember that its leaves ideally do not require misting.

The Ficus benjamina, commonly called Java Fig, is technically a tree that, although it can reach large sizes outdoors, can be cultivated in pots, allowing it to remain relatively small.

With its deep green leaves, it can thrive in temperate winters and is also commonly grown as a bonsai.

In terms of care, it requires regular watering as it can quickly lose moisture through transpiration. In warm weather, avoid letting the soil dry out completely. It also requires a good amount of light but does not need direct sun exposure. In fact, many hours of direct sunlight may harm it.