Tropical indoor plants They have conquered homes around the world thanks to their exuberance, decorative strength, and ability to create healthy and exotic environments. Whether you are a beginner or have experience caring for plants, knowing how to choose, care for, and enjoy the most resistant and spectacular tropical varieties It's the first step to transforming any corner into a true green oasis. In this comprehensive guide, you'll discover all the secrets to enjoying tropical plants at home: their benefits, the most suitable types for indoors, the best growing tips, and a selection of easy-to-care-for species that thrive in any home environment.
Why choose tropical indoor plants?
The indoor plants of tropical origin They have been used for centuries for both decorative purposes and to enhance the indoor environment. Their origins in warm and humid regions (the Amazon, Southeast Asia, tropical areas of Africa, and Central and South America) mean they are accustomed to filtered light, stable temperatures, and ambient humidity—conditions that closely resemble those of a home.
They provide color, life and freshness, purify the air and help regulate the humidity of the room.. Plus, the wide variety of species and their different shapes, sizes, and colors make them a favorite for beginners and decorating enthusiasts.
Characteristics and Advantages of Tropical Indoor Plants
- Adaptability: They easily get used to indirect light and constant warm temperatures, typical of the interior of a home.
- Great ornamental power: For its striking, large leaves, variety of shapes and colors, and, in many cases, its exotic flowers.
- Purifying power: Many species are known to eliminate toxins and improve air quality (such as sansevieria, spathiphyllum, or areca palm).
- Easy to care for: There are very resistant and low-maintenance varieties, ideal for those who are new to plant care.
- Healthy environment: They help maintain comfortable environmental humidity, reduce stress, and generally contribute to physical and emotional well-being.
What should you know before choosing a tropical indoor plant?
Before purchasing your first (or next) tropical species, it is important to consider:
- Light: Most prefer abundant but indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can burn the leaves.
- Temperature: Ideally, the room temperature should be kept between 18 and 27°C, without sudden changes or cold drafts.
- Humidity: These plants appreciate high humidity (over 50-60%). Spray water on the leaves, use humidifiers, or place trays of water near the pots.
- Soil and drainage: They require a loose substrate, rich in organic matter and with good drainage to avoid waterlogging and root rot.
- Irrigation: Keep the soil slightly moist, without puddles. Watering frequency varies depending on the species, climate, and time of year.
- Pruning and cleaning: Remove dry leaves, dust the leaves, and prune if necessary to maintain balanced growth.
The most recommended indoor tropical plants for beginners and experts
If you are a beginner in the world of indoor gardening, choosing hardy, low-maintenance tropical species It will help you gain confidence while you enjoy all the beauty and lushness of the jungle in your living room, dining room, or bedroom. Here's a comprehensive selection with a description, care instructions, and interesting facts about each one.
Monstera (Monstera delicious, adansonii, obliqua, etc.)
The monstera, known as the "Adam's rib," is a true icon of modern decor and a favorite among beginners. Its main varieties include Monstera deliciosa, Monstera adansonii, and the coveted Monstera obliqua. All are climbers and stand out for their large, green leaves trimmed with natural holes.
- Light: They prefer abundant indirect light. They tolerate poorly lit corners, but will grow more slowly.
- Irrigation: Keep the substrate moist but never waterlogged. Water only when the surface feels dry to the touch.
- Temperature: Ideal between 18 and 27°C.
- Humidity: It thrives in humid environments. Spray the leaves regularly.
- Increase: It is a climbing plant, so you can use moss supports to encourage its vertical growth.
- Curiosity: Mature Monsteras can produce flowers and fruit in suitable environments.
Monstera obliqua is especially rare and expensive; it is often confused in stores with adansonii, so it is advisable to be well informed if you are looking for the authentic one.
Areca (Dypsis lutescens)
La areca palm, also known as the bamboo palm, is perfect for giving a tropical, elegant and purifying air to the home. It helps eliminate toxins from the air, increases environmental humidity and is very easy to care for..
- Light: Prefers semi-shade and bright indirect light.
- Irrigation: Every 2-3 days in warm weather, reducing the frequency in winter (every 10-15 days).
- Substratum: Very loose and draining, prevents compaction.
- Humidity: Spray water on the leaves to keep them healthy and shiny.
- Temperature: It tolerates temperatures up to 15°C, although it thrives best above 18°C.
- Curiosity: It can reach up to 2 meters in height indoors.
Ficus (Ficus benjamina, Ficus elastica, Ficus lyrata)
The Ficus It's a broad genus with very popular species such as Ficus benjamina (weeping or braided fig), Ficus elastica (robust or large-leaf fig), and Ficus lyrata (fiddle-leaf fig). They're perfect for beginners as they're hardy and require only basic care.
- Light: They prefer well-lit environments, but without direct sunlight.
- Irrigation: In summer, water once or twice a week; reduce the frequency in winter. Let the top layer of the substrate dry between waterings.
- Temperature: He doesn't like low temperatures or drafts.
- Pruning and cleaning: Clean the leaves with a damp cloth to promote photosynthesis and prevent pests.
- Subscriber: During spring and summer, apply liquid fertilizer once a month.
- Curiosity: There are ficus trees with braided trunks and hanging leaves reminiscent of the weeping willow.
Alocasia Polly (Alocasia amazonica)
Alocasia Polly, or "mini elephant ear," stands out for its spectacular dark green leaves with lime-green veins. Although they look like plastic, they are surprisingly flexible and textured to the touch.
- Light: It needs indirect light that is not too intense, never direct sunlight.
- Irrigation: Keep the soil always moist but not flooded.
- Humidity: Increase ambient humidity to over 60% by spraying or adding water to trays.
- Temperature: Minimum 18°C. They are sensitive to low temperatures.
- Increase: It can reach up to 1 m high and 2 m wide under ideal conditions.
- Tip: It is sensitive to excess water and sudden changes, so it monitors the substrate and acclimatizes its position carefully.
Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)
Strelitzia reginae It is a spectacular plant, both for the shape and color of its flowers, which resemble an exotic bird. It can be grown indoors if provided with sufficient light and a warm, draft-free environment.
- Light: It needs a lot of light, even direct sunlight for a few hours a day.
- Irrigation: It prefers moist but never waterlogged soil; reduce watering in winter.
- Temperature: Ideal between 12 and 25°C. Does not tolerate cold or drafts.
- Substratum: Well-nourished and loose. Use organic fertilizer every two weeks in spring and summer.
- Flowering: With proper care, you can enjoy its striking flowers all year round.
Persian Shield (Strobilanthes dyerianus)
The Persian shield It is an exotic plant native to Myanmar, easy to recognize by its metallic purple hue from its large leaves (up to 20 cm). It prefers high humidity, heat and constantly moist soil.
- Light: Bright indirect light, never direct sun.
- Irrigation: Substrate always moist, never completely dry.
- Humidity: Very high, minimum 60-70%. Ideal for bathrooms or near humidifiers.
- Flowering: Its flowers are bluish and appear in optimal conditions.
- Caution: It needs an environment without drafts or sudden changes in temperature.
Aglaonema
The aglaonema It is native to Southeast Asia and China and is recognized for its spectacular leaves, its hardiness, and its low light requirements. It is considered an evergreen indoor tree, ideal for those who cannot afford much natural light.
- Light: It tolerates low light, but not total darkness.
- Irrigation: It requires constant humidity in the substrate, check that the soil never dries out completely.
- Temperature: It needs to be above 18-20°C.
- Sheets: Large, durable, with a variety of colors and combinations.
- Caution: Avoid drafts and sudden changes in temperature.
Bat Flower (Tacca chantrieri)
The Tacca chantrieri, also known as devil's flower or bat flower, stands out for its black inflorescence, unique in the plant world. It's not very common in homes, but if you want an original and striking plant, it's an ideal choice.
- Light: It prefers warm, well-lit places, but without direct sunlight.
- Humidity: High humidity and frequent spraying.
- Irrigation: Keep the soil moist, never soggy.
- Flowering: Black flowers may give off an unpleasant odor to attract insects.
- Tip: Not recommended for people who are very sensitive to strong odors.
Mimosa pudica
The embarrassing mimosa It's famous for its response to touch: its leaves close at the slightest touch. It's fun and educational, although it shouldn't be handled too much because it can become stressed and sick.
- Light: Abundant indirect light.
- Irrigation: Moderate, only when the substrate is dry to the touch.
- Humidity: Very tall, many grow it under glass domes to control the microclimate.
Other recommended indoor tropical plants for beginners
- Pothos (Epipremnum aureum): Very hardy, fast-growing, and trailing. It tolerates low light and delayed watering.
- Sansevieria (Sansevieria trifasciata): Known as mother-in-law's tongue, it tolerates dry environments, low light, and infrequent watering. It also purifies the air of toxic compounds.
- Spathiphyllum (Spathiphyllum wallisii): The peace lily, highly decorative and purifying. It appreciates high humidity and subdued light.
- Philodendron: A wide variety of species. Philodendron scandens is especially recommended for beginners.
- Calathea: With spectacular leaves, it needs humidity and soft light.
- Bromeliad: Very decorative and easy if you respect the watering in the rosette and the indirect light.
- Dracena (Dracaena fragans, Dracaena marginata): Simple, adaptable, and slow-growing. Suitable for low-light interiors.
- Ribbon or spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum): Ideal for hanging. Hardy and fast-growing.
- Zamioculca (Zamioculca zamiifolia): Very robust and neglect-tolerant. Glossy leaves and great resistance.
- Anthurium (Anthurium andreanum): Perfect for beginners and known for its red/pink spathes. Very decorative and air-purifying.
- Areca (Dypsis lutescens): Again, ideal for creating a tropical and healthy atmosphere.
- Begonia rex: With large, intensely colored leaves and easy to care for.
- Fittonia: Perfect for small spaces, with green leaves and strikingly colored veins.
- Parlor palm (Chamaedorea elegans): Widely used in decoration, durable and easy to maintain.
- Beaucarnea recurvata (Elephant's Foot): Thickened stem as a water reserve, withstands neglect.
- Peperomia: Very diverse, easy and with fleshy leaves.
- Stromanthe Triostar: With tricolor leaves: green, pink and cream.
- Swedish ivy (Plectranthus verticillatus): Hanging and resistant.
- Maranta: Very striking due to the pattern of its leaves. It grows well in humid environments with soft light.
- Dieffenbachia: Large, variegated leaves. Grows in indirect light and tolerates neglect.
General care of indoor tropical plants
- Lighting: Place plants near windows with sheer curtains or in bright rooms. Avoid direct sunlight for most plants.
- Irrigation: Use water at room temperature, preferably lime-free (rainwater or filtered water). Water when the top layer of the substrate is dry.
- Humidity: Group several plants together, use humidifiers, place trays of water and stones, or spray water on the leaves.
- Fertilizer: Apply specific fertilizer for green or tropical plants every 15 days during active growth (spring and summer).
- Pruning and cleaning: Remove dry leaves and stems to prevent pests and diseases. Wipe away dust with a damp cloth.
- Transplant: Change pot every 2-3 years using new, aerated substrate.
- Pest control: Watch for mealybugs, aphids, and mites. Use organic remedies if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tropical Indoor Plants
- Do all tropical plants need a lot of light? No, although most prefer bright indirect light, some, such as aglaonema, pothos, sansevieria, and dracaena, thrive in somewhat shady rooms.
- Can I have tropical plants in bathrooms or kitchens? They're ideal locations for humidity, as long as they have some natural light. Calatheas, marantas, and fittonias thrive in well-lit bathrooms.
- Is a humidifier necessary? It's not essential, but it helps a lot in dry or heated areas. Grouping plants and regular spraying are also helpful.
- Is it dangerous for pets? Some species can be toxic if ingested. Always consult with your doctor before choosing your plant if you live with pets.
- Why do leaves turn yellow/brown? Over or under watering, lack of nutrients, low humidity or inadequate light are the most common causes.
- How to choose the best plant for my home? Choose based on the light, temperature, and time you can dedicate to their care. Start with hardy, undemanding species.
- Observe: Plants show you what they need: drooping leaves indicate a lack of water, yellow leaves are usually due to excess water, and dull leaves can indicate low humidity.
- Rotation: Rotate the pots regularly to ensure all parts receive light and grow in a balanced manner.
- Prevention: Don't use cold water or overwater. Make sure the pot has good drainage to avoid waterlogging.
- Subscriber: Use specific fertilizer in spring and summer; it will be key to the development of tropical plants.
- Pruning: Keep the plant clean of dead leaves and branches, promoting growth and overall health.
- Review: Periodically check the condition of the plant, inspect the underside and base of the leaves to detect pests.
Have a small tropical garden inside the house It's rewarding and easy if you choose the right species and follow a few basic care guidelines. With the right combination of light, humidity, and watering, even the most inexperienced gardener can enjoy a personal jungle that improves the atmosphere, decor, and overall well-being of the home. Give it a try, and little by little, you'll see how your home transforms into a true green paradise full of life, color, and health.