If you’ve been looking to add some plants to your home but don’t know where to start, why not borrow some inspiration from a tropical escape? Tropical houseplants are a great way to add a bit of flair to your home’s interior. Besides, not everyone can afford a tropical getaway this summer, so why not bring the tropics to your home instead? Whether you’re looking to add some greenery to your Atlanta rental or just bought a house in San Francisco, consider these recommendations from Redfin to add some tropical flair to your home.
1. Low – maintenance tropicals: Monsteras and philodendron
For those who struggle to keep plants alive, and you don’t want to leave a trail of botanical destruction throughout your home, it’s best to stick to low-maintenance plants. Nick and Lani from Our Tropical Plants recommend the monstera and philodendron species because they are so easy to care for.
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Get prequalified2. Easy trailing greenery: Brazil philodendrons
In addition to the ease of care, philodendrons also add plenty of aesthetic value to your home’s interior design.
“An easy houseplant that anyone can grow is a Brazil philodendron,” says Rachel Reynolds from RR Dreamscapes. “Also known as a heart leaf philodendron, this trailing plant is the perfect touch of greenery for any home. Easily styled, pruned, and cared for, this plant is the gift that keeps on giving.”
3. Air purifying favorite: Snake plants
Snake plants are not only a great aesthetic choice for your home but can also provide some small health benefits, according to Nat from Ornate Events and Florals. These plants are known for their architectural upright leaves and can tolerate neglect. They can also help purify indoor air, which is great for smaller living spaces.
Lisa LaPaso from Lisa’s Landscape and Design also loves snake plants because they’re so easy to care for. “These plants are suitable for many home styles and decors and they’re beautiful in assorted colors and styles of planters,” she says.
4. Tropical showstopper: Bird of paradise
Combining lush greenery with a splash of color, this tropical houseplant gets its name from the shape of its flower, which slightly resembles a bird. Native to parts of South Africa, these plants add some brightness and character to your living space, especially on your porch or patio.
“The bird of paradise (Strelitzia reginae) is a tropical showstopper that brings bold color and structure to any living space—indoors or out,” says Luis Benavides, founder and CEO of Neighborbrite, “With its striking orange and blue flowers and lush, arching foliage, it thrives in bright, indirect light and adds an exotic, sculptural feel that instantly elevates curb appeal. It’s a favorite in our designs for its drama, resilience, and year-round visual interest.”
5. Soft sunlight option: Peperomias
“There are lots of tropical plants that homeowners can grow indoors~ the key is to make sure the plant has enough sunlight,” says Ephemera Terrariums. “Peperomias are one of our favorites because they only require soft sunlight, and watering is every 1-2 weeks. It’s also a large genus of plants including ones that grow tall and bushy, or trail and cascade– perfect for terrariums as well.”
6. Shade-loving classic: Peace lily plants
Peace lilies are known for their lush green leaves and elegant white blooms. According to JG Luxury Flowers and Details, peace lilies are a favorite since they thrive in low to moderate indirect light and prefer moist soil.
“They enjoy high humidity and love occasional misting. Taking care of them is no biggie; when you see them a bit sad, don’t get scared, go ahead and give them some water and they’ll bounce right back.”
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Get prequalified7. Bold blooms: Firebush
If you like bright-colored plants, the firebush is the way to go. These tropical plants, which get their name from the color of their flowers, can light up any room or garden.
“This native beauty brings vibrant red-orange blooms that attract hummingbirds and butterflies throughout the year,” says Nick Freeman, owner of Wacca Polatka. “Drought-tolerant and easy to maintain, Firebush thrives in full sun but can adapt to partial shade. It’s perfect for adding a splash of color to garden beds or large pots on patios.”
