The Wonderful World of Houseplants

Plants, plants, and more plants. They are what help us breathe and live. They are the foundation of this world. Some live in the oceans or on land. Each and every plant is unique in its own way. A popular theme that I enjoy discussing is that of the word unique. That is one of the many reasons why nature is so intriguing to me. Nothing is the same. Gardening can be challenging in its own ways. I have always loved the idea of living in a plant world. I have put together a list of a few of my favorite plants to grow indoors.

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1. Pothos
Pothos are by far the easiest houseplants to take care of. I really like pothos because each leaf is different, none are the same. Some stand straight up or some can dangle down like a vine. These are nice because some of these plants have a nice gradient or nice variegation.
Watering is very straight forward for the pothos plant. I have found that watering weekly is the best. Occasional fertilizer is needed to increase the growth of the plant.

2. Aloe Vera
Aloes have a special property that is used medicinally. The inside flesh of the aloe plant is used as a soothing agent for cuts, scrapes, burns, and skin care. Aloe is a great plant to have around for those reasons. It really does sooth and help irritations, I was very surprised myself when I tried using it. 
Aloe is a very hardy plant that requires minimal watering. I usually water mine every 10-14 days depending on the temperature and the season.

3. Bamboo
I grow my Lucky Bamboo plant in water only with occasional liquid fertilizer. I love the bamboo because it is a plant that doesn't take up a lot of space, nor needs a lot of sunlight. It's a perfect fit for a desk or a shelf. Bamboo is also a very hardy plant requiring minimal care resulting in ease on the owner. 

4. Snake Plants
Snake plants come in a variety of visual appeals. Some can be tall or some can be short and compact. The reason why I love snake plants is because of their minimal care and low light preferences. I usually water my snake plant every 10-14 days just like the bamboo. 

5. Tillandsia
The last plant on this list is actually an air plant that can be planted in soil. It looks more like a Bromeliad than the air plants that everyone else thinks about. A pink flower will come out from the center. Eventually that pink flower will gradually open up and purple flowers will emerge. I'd consider the tillandsia to be more of a dessert plant versus a tropical plant. Tillandsia bromeliads are very hardy and drought tolerant when grown indoors. I usually water mine every 14 days depending on the season and temperature of my room.

6. Hibiscus
Hibiscus are just plain gorgeous and attract hummingbirds when placed outside. However, hibiscus can be grown inside just like any other houseplant. Depending on the temperature of the summer months, hibiscus can stay outside. These gorgeous plants come in different colors such as; yellow, pink, orange, and white. The yellow hibiscus are my favorite because they remind me of Hawaii since it is the state flower of Hawaii. Hibiscus are the perfect addition to a tropical collection because of the colors. I love placing hibiscus with pothos, bamboo, or a philodendron. Place hibiscus by plants with darker leaves like the philodendron listed above. The color of the hibiscus flowers will stand out against the dark colored leaves.

7. Anthurium
Just like the hibiscus plants, anthuriums come in a variety of colors. I have pink and red. Anthuriums can be characterized by their heart shaped leaves and flowers. Anthuriums are toxic to animals so be careful. Anthuriums are also found in Hawaii, but are 5 times larger than the houseplant anthuriums. I still love their strange but unique flowers.
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8. Croton
Crotons are a very unique type of plants because it looks as if someone painted the leaves. They have so many colors, that is why I love the plant world so much. Some can have skinny leaves, thick leaves, spotted leaves, striped leaves, or splotchy leaves. Each plant is unique to its own patterns and color placement. It's very mesmerizing to watch new leaves develop and change colors. I personally recommend partnering the croton with some darker, leafy foliage. It will provide a very good contrast between the plants and give a rain forest pop.

9. Philodendrons
I am also including Monsterras in the philodendron section because of their close resemblance. Both have leaf foliage and look very well with almost any flowering or variegated plant. If a rainforest is being recreated a Monsterra or a philodendron is a must have. 
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10. Orchids
The last on this list is orchids. Keep in mind that there is a lot of different varieties. The most popular is the philaenopsis orchid. Orchids also come in multiple different colors and patterns. Picking out the right orchid depends on your color and pattern preference.  Just be careful not to overwater because the orchids will rot.

 The good news about tropical plants is that you don't have to live in a tropical place to have tropical plants. Sometimes we don't understand that we can grow the same types of plants inside. Even if someone lives in a cold state, they can still grow the same hibiscus plants as the locals in Hawaii. So, in reality you can have your favorite plant from Hawaii in your home. With just the right care anyone can grow tropical plants indoors.

So, now that you have some ideas, create your own plant paradise. Making your room or house feel like a tropical paradise is enough to constantly remind of Hawaii, or some other tropical destination. All there needs to be now is a beach with rolling waves, the smell of the ocean breeze, and sand beneath your toes.

"To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow."
-Audrey Hepburn