Are you still stuck at home and wishing you could be somewhere other than your couch? Why not create an oasis in your own home! You can bring an exotic flair to your home even if you live in a colder climate with tropical houseplants. The most popular tropical houseplants are often characterized by their colorful flowers, but others are prized for their large, unusually patterned, or multicolor leaves. Here are 5 must-have tropical houseplants to transform your space!
Orchids
Most people are familiar with tropical and subtropical orchid species, but there are varieties from all over the world. Orchids can be found in deserts, woodlands, and tropical forests, but the ones they love most are from tropical and subtropical regions. There is no tropical plant more quintessential than a flowering orchid. Whenever possible, avoid direct heat, drafts, and direct sunlight. Set up a humid, warm environment instead.
- Light: Bright indirect light
- Water: In general, once per week; allow to dry between waterings; do not overwater
- Color varieties: White, yellow, pink, purple, red, orange, variegated
Anthuriums
Brightly colored, stately anthuriums are highly prized tropical plants. There is a lot of anthurium varieties available, and they are fun and rewarding plants to grow. Plant them in rich, loose potting soil, keeping the roots well-draining.
- Light: Bright indirect light, avoid the full sun,
- Water: Keep moist
- Color varieties: Red blooms with a touch of yellow
Palm Trees
Many varieties of palm trees can be thrived indoors and are the enduring symbol of everything tropical. In a sunny corner or an entryway, you can enjoy them while remembering your tropical vacation. Kentia palms were used throughout Queen Victoria's many residences, so you are in good company, too. Keep your palm warm (above 55 degrees Fahrenheit) by planting it in fast-draining potting soil, fertilizing it monthly, and watering it thoroughly.
- Light: Filtered bright sun
- Water: Water weekly in summer letting the soil dry between waterings
Bromeliads
Of all tropical plants, bromeliads are probably the easiest to grow. Unlike their lush-leaved counterparts, these tropical epiphytes (air plants) can be grown in pots easily since they tolerate much more harsh environmental conditions. Colors and textures vary greatly among them. The best potting soil for growing bromeliads is one that drains Easily grows on peat-based soil, sandy soil, and clay soil. In addition to growing on boards or logs, bromeliads can also be hung from the wall.
- Light: Bright, indirect light
- Water: Water weekly but avoid standing water
- Color varieties: Red, green, purple, orange, yellow, banded, stripes, spots, or other combinations
Birds of Paradise
The bird of paradise is one of the most tropical flowers in the world. It has elongated flower heads and a distinctive beak that some say resembles the head of a bird. You can also grow them indoors surprisingly easily. As an indoor plant with vigorous growth, it requires weekly fertilization and pot-bound care. The birds of paradise can grow up to 6 feet tall and require 3 to 5 years of growth before they flower.
- Light: Bright light with some direct sun
- Water: Keep moist
- Color varieties: Blue and orange
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