20 Fun Facts About Common Houseplants

· 6 min read
20 Fun Facts About Common Houseplants

Common Houseplants For Warm Climates

Many plants that thrive outdoors can be grown indoors. Several palms, including the sturdy and tolerant parlour plant and the beautiful paradise palm, are thriving in indoors.

Pothos and some varieties (such as the Crotons that have variegated) are easy to grow and feature attractive foliage. Orchids require bright sunlight and steady moisture, but allow the soil to dry slightly between irrigations.

Aroids

The aroid family is huge and includes a number of the most loved houseplants of the present. Monocotyledonous, many species are valued more for their leaves than their flowers. They come in many shapes sizes, shapes, and growth habits. They also come in a variety of colors. Monstera, philodendrons and anthuriums and colocasia are among the most well-known of these plants.

These plants are typically exposed to the sun's rays in a diffused manner, which is why they thrive in moderate to bright indirect lighting in the home. They can be tolerant of less light conditions, such as windows that face north (just ensure that the sun doesn't directly shine upon the leaves).

good house plants  of these plants thrive best in warm, moist climates. Use a potting mix with good aeration and well-draining soil in the container. Aroids can be sensitive to excessive watering, so make sure you make sure to check the top 2 inches of soil often. They can lose their shape, wilt or develop dark brown mushily-colored spots if overwatered.

Bromeliads

The bromeliad plants in the family have a special attribute that allows them to store water within their leaves or in a cup at the base of the plant. They also release water when they need it by using trichomes. This makes them among the most drought-resistant houseplants, but they can still benefit from misting often.

Some, like the Guzmania and neoregelia varieties, are grown for their vibrant foliage which can include stripes, spots or bands of color. Others, such as the Tillandsia and Vriesea species, produce blooms that are brightly colored.

Some bromeliads can be used in the indoors all year long, whereas others require moving outdoors during warmer months when temperatures are above freezing. At the Safari Park, we see bromeliads in our Hidden Jungle garden. The family Guzmania contains a variety of tropical plants including the pineapple (Ananas Comosus), introduced to Europe in 1493 after Columbus' second trip to the New World.

Cacti

Many people enjoy bringing the beauty of cacti into their homes. These special plants are adapted to desert conditions and a majority have spiny stems. Many produce flowers and fruits.  best houseplants  serve a purpose they are able to stop herbivores from eating the leaves and fruits.

Cacti, along with other desert-adapted plants can store water in the stems and roots of their plants for periods of drought.  low maintenance house plants  can also store carbon dioxide in their stomata at the time of the day and release it when photosynthesis takes place.

In Central and South America, some cacti such as the cholla and the prickly-pear (Opuntia) are used to build living fences. Certain cacti, like Lophophora Williamsii (cactus Peyote) are used for their hallucinogenic effects.

Ferns

Ferns are among the most popular indoor plants, despite their lack of flowers and fruits. They're nevertheless easy to grow. The most important factor to success is a properly-drained growing medium that simulates the forest floor (rich in organic matter but with perlite or coarse gravel for proper drainage).

A fern is best misted regularly depending on its requirements. They like the humidity in living spaces and family spaces, however in the event that the fronds are turning brown or are dropping their leaves is an indication that the humidity is not enough.

The soil needs to be evenly moist but not too wet to prevent water logging and root rot. To test the fern's moisture simply place your finger in the soil. It should feel moist, but not wet. Avoid overwatering, as it may cause a yellowing of the fronds. Keep it away from direct sunlight, as these can dry the plant out too fast.

Begonias

Whether you're displaying them in a decorative container, on a macrame hanging basket or in the garden, begonias bring bright colors to indoor spaces. They thrive when given indirect, bright light, but require plenty of humidity.

Fibrous-rooted begonias, typically categorized as bedding plants, are low-maintenance and easy to grow. The most popular variety is  called 'Dragonwing which has its scarlet, pink and yellow flowers on dark-bronze or a green foliage. Try the 'Baby wings' series for a compact version. They can grow from 12 to 15 inches tall.

They are sold as floor plants that grow to 4' high and have beautiful leaves with polka dot patterns on both the front and back. They require regular irrigation and a regular feeding with an organic fertilizer. Be sure to check the moisture levels of the soil on a regular basis because they are susceptible to wilting when the soil is drying out. Begonias aren't too fussy about the type of soil they prefer, however they do benefit from an easy-draining, light mix such as African violet pots or a soil specifically made for houseplants.

Palms

Palms bring a tropical vibe to the home, and are frequently utilized in indoor gardens. They require moderate care and can become a focal point in any room. They are durable but they are killed by cold temperatures, which is why they should be put in a garage or sheltered in the house during winter.

Palm leaves are also known as palmate or pinnate, and are V-shaped. The leaflets are joined or overlapping for some or all of their length. They are joined by the costa, which is an extension of the petiole into the leaf blade.

A variety of palm species are harvested for their fruit and timber. Palms are cultivated as shade trees in warmer climates as well as indoor plants to provide an exotic feel. For instance the peach palm (Brassica pendula) is grown for its edible fruit and as an ornamental crop for coffee, while the tagua or ivory palm (Phytelephas aequatorialis) is used to make Rattan and vegetable ivory.

Schefflera

Scheffleras are commonly called umbrella plants or octopus plants. They are among the most well-known kinds of houseplants. They are simple to grow and don't require a lot or any coddling.

Scheffleras can thrive in light-medium conditions, but thrive best in indirect light that is bright. Exposure to direct sunlight could burn the leaves, and inadequate light can cause the plant to become leggy and floppy.

Regularly watering is essential, but do not overwater. Overwatering can cause root rot. Use a container that is only slightly larger than the original pot when repotting. A pot that is too big will result in too much soil being left wet for too many hours.


Be aware of insects like aphids or spider mites. If you spot pests they can be removed by pinching them off the plant or apply a natural insecticide like neem. If you notice that your leaves are wilting it could be due to the absence of moisture or temperature shock.

Polyscias

Polyscias is a native of the subtropical islands of the Pacific, literally means "lots" of shade. This plant is a perfect match for that description. Beautiful plant with a twisted trunk and beautiful leaves, it's the perfect houseplant to create peace and tranquility within your home. The leaves are a source of medicinal benefits and are utilized as a tonic, diuretic, antitoxin and to treat fever, coughs and colds. The leaves have anti-inflammatory properties, antifungal and antibacterial ones. The plants also contain eight new polysciosides (oleanolic acids saponins) and three polyacetylenes that are known.

Place your Polyscias at a spot that is sunny and doesn't expose the leaves to direct sunlight, since they could be scorched. Water once the top couple of inches of soil are dry however, avoid overwatering as this could cause root rot, or even leaf fall. Fertilise your houseplants with the product that is labeled "feed" every four waterings in the summer. Reduce the frequency of feeding to six waterings in autumn and winter.

Philodendrons

Philodendrons can be grown easily and they are a great option for novices and new gardeners. The classic trailing philodendron, hederaceum5, is fast-growing and adaptable to different lighting conditions, flourishing in hanging baskets or climbing a trellis outside in frost-free zones and happily spreading its heart-shaped leaves across the window of a bedroom or desk sill inside.

Try the cultivar Congo Rojo, which has leaves that are elliptical in a dark brown purple shade. Its unique color exalts its sculptural shape and is perfect for modern spaces that have sleek furniture or even decorated in black. Ensure that philodendrons are in a spot that receives indirect sunlight. Avoid giving them excessive water. Overwatering can cause the leaf edges to yellow and cause slowing down growth. Always use lukewarm or warm water and add plant food using water-diluted solutions, as opposed to directly into the soil. Directly watering the soil can cause shock to philodendrons and cause them to lose their health.