Indoor plants have become an essential part of modern interior design, not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for the numerous benefits they offer. When it comes to decorating your living room, there’s a wide variety of indoor plants to choose from. These green companions not only add a touch of nature to your home but also improve air quality, reduce stress, and create a more inviting and tranquil atmosphere. In this article, we’ll explore 50 indoor plants for the living room.
What are the benefits of keeping indoor plants?
Keeping indoor plants can offer a wide range of benefits, both for your physical and mental well-being as well as for your home environment. Here are some of the key benefits of having indoor plants:
- Improved air quality: Indoor plants can help purify the air by absorbing toxins and pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene. They also release oxygen during photosynthesis, which can enhance the overall air quality in your home.
- Increased humidity: Many indoor plants release moisture vapor through a process called transpiration. This can help raise the humidity levels in your home, which can be especially beneficial in dry indoor environments, especially during the winter months.
- Stress reduction: Research has shown that being around indoor plants can reduce stress and anxiety. The presence of greenery and the act of caring for plants can have a calming and soothing effect on people.
- Enhanced mood and well-being: Indoor plants can improve your mood and create a more positive atmosphere. The colors and textures of plants can be visually pleasing, and taking care of them can provide a sense of accomplishment and purpose.
- Improved concentration and productivity: Having indoor plants in your workspace or study area can boost concentration and productivity. They can help reduce mental fatigue and increase attention span.
- Better sleep: Some plants, such as lavender and jasmine, emit fragrances that are known for their calming and sleep-inducing properties. Placing these plants in your bedroom can potentially improve the quality of your sleep.
- Aesthetic appeal: Indoor plants can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home. They add a natural and vibrant element to your interior decor, making spaces feel more inviting and lively.
- Connection to nature: For those who may not have easy access to outdoor green spaces, indoor plants can provide a connection to nature and the benefits of being around living organisms.
- Air purification: In addition to improving air quality, certain plants, such as snake plants and peace lilies, are known for their air-purifying properties and can help remove specific toxins from the air.
- Learning and hobby: Caring for indoor plants can be a rewarding hobby and a learning experience. It can teach you about plant biology, gardening, and responsibility for another living being.
- Conversation starters: Indoor plants can serve as excellent conversation starters and can be a source of pride when you share your plant care knowledge and experiences with others.
- Feng Shui and interior design: Indoor plants can be strategically placed to enhance the flow of energy (chi) in your home, according to Feng Shui principles. They can also complement various interior design styles and themes.
Now let’s explore the top 60 indoor plants for the living room:
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
Snake Plant is a beautiful and adaptable indoor plant beloved for its singular appearance and exceptional advantages. Its common name refers to the tough plant’s long, sword-shaped leaves, which are typically dark green with contrasting light green or yellow vertical stripes, resembling the scales of a snake. It is unique because of how well it purifies the air. This is the best option for homes and offices because it is excellent at removing dangerous toxins like formaldehyde and benzene from indoor air. It also does well in low light and needs little upkeep, making it the ideal plant for novices and time-constrained people. The snake plant is a useful addition to any indoor space due to its robustness, aesthetic appeal, and air-cleansing capabilities.
2. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
The Spider Plant is preferred among those who enjoy keeping indoor plants because of its elegant appearance and air-purifying abilities. It has striking, almost ethereal-looking long, arching green leaves with white stripes or variegation on them. This hardy houseplant is well known for its capacity to enhance indoor air quality by effectively removing pollutants like formaldehyde and xylene. Spider plants are also well known for having low maintenance needs, which makes them a great option for both inexperienced and seasoned plant owners. Spider plants are a wonderful addition to any indoor space because of their ability to purify the air and their sophisticated appearance. They bring a breath of fresh air and a touch of natural beauty to your surroundings.
3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos has become a favorite of both seasoned gardeners and newbies. Heart-shaped leaves on this endearing plant can range in color from vivid green to variegated mixtures of green and creamy white. It is prized for its many advantages as well as its aesthetic appeal. It is well known for its ability to purify the air, efficiently removing pollutants like formaldehyde, xylene, and benzene, making it a useful addition to any indoor space. Additionally, Pothos requires very little maintenance and can tolerate periods of neglect while flourishing in a variety of lighting conditions. Its trailing vines make it an ideal choice for hanging baskets or as a trailing accent in a room, adding a touch of natural elegance while contributing to a healthier living environment.
4. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
The Peace Lily is a well-liked indoor plant prized for its graceful and lush appearance. It adds a touch of calm and sophistication to any living space with its striking white, hood-like blooms and deep green foliage. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Peace Lily provides indoor environments with a remarkable advantage. It is well known for its ability to effectively remove common indoor pollutants like ammonia, benzene, and formaldehyde from the air. This makes it a fantastic option for homes and workplaces, promoting better air quality and fostering a calmer and more relaxing environment. Peace Lilies are a favorite among both inexperienced and seasoned plant enthusiasts due to their low maintenance requirements.
5. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
If you’re looking to add a touch of softness and a classic, botanical feel to your living room, the Boston Fern is an excellent choice. These ferns thrive in bright, indirect light and require consistent moisture. Mist the plant regularly to maintain humidity, and consider placing it in a decorative hanging basket for added visual appeal. Boston Ferns are natural air purifiers and can help improve indoor air quality.
6. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastic)
The Rubber Plant is distinguished by its imposing, deep-green leaves and strong growth. Due to its adaptability to different lighting situations, which makes it suitable for both well-lit and moderately-lit spaces, it is a fantastic choice for the living room. Between waterings, let the top inch of the soil dry out, and be sure to give it enough humidity to keep its glossy appearance. Regular pruning can encourage a bushier appearance and help control its height.
7. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
The Areca Palm, also known as the Butterfly Palm or Golden Cane Palm, brings a touch of the tropics to your living room. Its feathery fronds and graceful appearance create a relaxing, island-like ambiance. Place it in bright, indirect light and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Proper humidity levels are essential for this plant’s well-being, so consider using a humidifier or a pebble tray to maintain moisture in the air.
8. Dragon Tree (Dracaena marginata)
Dragon Tree is a tall and slender plant with arching, sword-like leaves. Its striking appearance and air-purifying qualities make it a fantastic choice for the living room. This plant prefers bright, indirect light and moderate watering. Its sculptural form can serve as a focal point in your living room’s decor. It is one of the best indoor plants for the living room.
9. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Chinese Evergreens are prized for their vibrant, variegated foliage and adaptability to low to medium-light conditions. These plants come in various colors and patterns, making them a versatile choice for any decor style. Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid overwatering, as Chinese Evergreens are susceptible to root rot. Regularly misting or using a humidity tray can help maintain the plant’s humidity needs.
10. Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
The Jade Plant, often called the “money plant” or “lucky plant,” is a symbol of prosperity and good fortune in many cultures. Its thick, fleshy leaves and tree-like appearance make it a unique and captivating addition to your living room. Jade Plants thrive in bright light and well-draining soil. Be cautious not to overwater, as they prefer to dry out between waterings.
11. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ Plant is a low-maintenance gem that thrives in low-light conditions, making it perfect for living rooms with limited sunlight. Its glossy, dark green leaves add a touch of modern elegance to your space. ZZ Plants are incredibly drought-tolerant, so water sparingly and ensure the pot has proper drainage. These plants are also known for their air-purifying properties, making them an excellent addition to your home.
12. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller)
Aloe Vera is not just a popular plant for its soothing gel but also a fantastic addition to your living room. Its striking, succulent leaves add a modern and fresh look to your decor. Aloe Vera is low-maintenance, requiring bright, indirect light and infrequent watering. Moreover, it purifies the air by removing harmful chemicals, making it an excellent choice for improving indoor air quality.
13. Money Tree (Pachira aquatica)
The Money Tree is believed to bring good luck and financial prosperity. With its braided trunk and lush green leaves, it adds a touch of elegance to any living room. Money Trees are relatively easy to care for and thrive in bright, indirect light. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and your Money Tree will thrive. It is one of the best indoor plants for the living room.
14. Croton (Codiaeum variegatum)
Crotons are known for their vibrant and multicolored leaves that can add a tropical touch to your living room. These plants love bright, indirect light and can tolerate a range of temperatures. Their striking foliage comes in various shades of red, orange, yellow, and green, making them a bold and beautiful addition to your space.
15. Calathea (Calathea spp.)
Calatheas are known for their intricate, patterned leaves that come in a variety of colors and designs. These plants are perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your living room decor. Calatheas prefer bright, indirect light and higher humidity levels, so they do well in well-lit rooms with some humidity. They also exhibit a unique phenomenon known as “prayer plant” behavior, as their leaves fold up at night, giving them a dynamic appeal.
16. Swiss Cheese Plant (Monstera deliciosa)
The Swiss Cheese Plant is a widely recognized indoor plant distinguished by its unusually split leaves that resemble Swiss cheese, thus the name. This striking plant can get quite big and gives your living room an exotic feel. It can be an easy-care, low-maintenance companion for years to come and thrives in bright, indirect light.
17. African Violet (Saintpaulia ionantha)
African Violets are petite yet stunning indoor plants that produce charming, delicate blooms in various shades, including purple, pink, and white. They are easy to care for and can thrive in indirect light. These little gems are perfect for adding a splash of color to your living room and are sure to bring joy to your space. It is one of the best indoor plants for the living room.
18. Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)
Another plant with the intriguing “prayer plant” behavior is the Maranta leuconeura. Its attractive foliage features intricate patterns and colors, making it a favorite among plant enthusiasts. Prayer plants thrive in bright, indirect light and consistent moisture, making them a perfect choice for living rooms with good natural light.
19. Philodendron Brasil (Philodendron hederaceum)
The Philodendron Brasil is an eye-catching indoor plant with striking variegated leaves that sport shades of green and yellow. Known for its low-maintenance nature, it can thrive in a variety of light conditions. This makes it an excellent choice for living rooms with different lighting situations. Its trailing growth habit can add a touch of elegance to any corner of your space.
20. Umbrella Tree (Schefflera arboricola)
The Schefflera is a versatile indoor plant with lush, glossy green foliage that resembles an umbrella. It can grow tall and make a bold statement in your living room. Thrives in moderate to bright indirect light and is known for its air-purifying properties, making it an excellent addition to your indoor jungle. It is one of the best indoor plants for the living room.
21. Air Plant (Tillandsia spp.)
Air plants are unique in that they don’t require soil to grow. These small, low-maintenance plants can be displayed in various creative ways, such as in glass terrariums or on decorative rocks. They thrive on air and occasional misting, making them a perfect choice for busy individuals looking to add a touch of green to their living room without the hassle of traditional potted plants.
22. Elephant Ear (Alocasia spp.)
If you want to make a bold statement in your living room, consider the Elephant Ear plant. Known for its large, dramatic leaves that resemble the ears of an elephant, this plant brings a tropical vibe to your space. It thrives in bright, indirect light and requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist. The Elephant Ear’s impressive foliage makes it a captivating focal point in any room.
23. Ivy (Hedera spp.)
Ivy is a classic choice for indoor greenery. Its trailing vines and lush, green leaves create a natural curtain of greenery that can be hung in baskets or allowed to cascade from shelves. Ivy varieties such as English Ivy are easy to care for and thrive in indirect light. Regular pruning can help maintain its shape and prevent it from becoming too unruly. It is one of the best indoor plants for the living room.
24. Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera spp.)
The Christmas Cactus is a well-liked option for lovers of indoor plants, particularly during the winter holidays when it blooms with stunning, vibrant flowers. This cactus is distinguished by its tubular, vivid flowers and flattened, segmented stems. It prefers regular but not excessive watering as well as bright, indirect light. Your Christmas Cactus will decorate your living room each year if you take good care of it.
25. Laceleaf (Anthurium andraeanum)
For a splash of color and elegance in your living room, consider the Anthurium, also known as the Flamingo Flower or Laceleaf. This plant boasts glossy, heart-shaped leaves and striking red, pink, or white flowers that resemble a flamingo’s beak. Anthuriums thrive in bright, indirect light and require consistent moisture without waterlogged soil. Their unique appearance adds a touch of sophistication to any room.
26. Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia nicolai)
The Bird of Paradise plant is known for its bold and exotic appearance. With its large, banana-like leaves and vibrant, bird-like flowers, it can add a tropical touch to your living room. This plant thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and appreciates regular watering, but be sure to let the soil dry out between waterings. Regular pruning can help maintain its attractive appearance and keep it a manageable size for indoor spaces.
27. Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata)
The Ponytail Palm is a unique and eye-catching addition to your living room. Despite its name, it’s not a true palm but belongs to the Agave family. This plant is characterized by its striking swollen trunk that stores water, making it extremely drought-tolerant. Its long, slender leaves cascade gracefully, resembling a ponytail, which gives it its name. The Ponytail Palm requires bright indirect light and infrequent watering, making it a low-maintenance choice for indoor greenery.
28. Ficus Benjamina (Ficus benjamin)
The Ficus Benjamina, commonly known as the Weeping Fig, is a classic choice for indoor greenery. Its elegant, glossy leaves and air-purifying qualities make it an excellent addition to any living room. It is one of the best indoor plants for the living room.
29. Chinese Money Plant (Pilea peperomioides)
The Chinese Money Plant, also known as the Pancake Plant or UFO Plant, has gained immense popularity in recent years due to its unique circular, coin-shaped leaves and ease of care. This charming plant is native to China and is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to its owners.
30. Zebra Plant (Aphelandra squarrosa)
The Zebra Plant is a striking indoor plant known for its vibrant green leaves adorned with bold, white stripes, resembling a zebra’s stripes. This tropical plant adds a touch of the exotic to your living room. This is one of the best indoor plants for the living room.
31. Norfolk Island Pine (Araucaria heterophylla)
If you’re seeking a plant that adds verticality and a touch of nature to your living room, the Norfolk Island Pine is an ideal choice. Its feathery branches and symmetrical growth make it resemble a tiny indoor Christmas tree. This plant prefers bright, indirect light and even moisture. Norfolk Island Pines can be a long-term addition to your living room, growing slowly over the years.
32. Yucca (Yucca spp.)
Yucca plants are known for their dramatic architectural form, with spiky leaves that add a touch of contemporary flair to your living room. These plants are incredibly resilient, thriving in various light conditions, from bright indirect light to low light. Yuccas are low-maintenance and require minimal watering. Their hardy nature and unique appearance make them an excellent choice for anyone looking to introduce a bold element to their interior decor.
33. Jasmine (Jasminum spp.)
Jasmine is revered for its fragrant white flowers, which can infuse your living room with a sweet and intoxicating scent. There are various jasmine species suitable for indoor cultivation, with Jasminum sambac and Jasminum polyanthum being popular choices. Jasmine plants need bright, indirect sunlight and consistent moisture, so be sure to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Regular pruning will help maintain its elegant appearance. This plant is one of the best indoor plants for the living room.
34. Dumb Cane (Dieffenbachia spp.)
Dieffenbachia is a striking foliage plant with large, variegated leaves. This plant is renowned for its air-purifying qualities, making it an excellent choice for your living room. It can help remove toxins from the air, improving the overall air quality in your home. Dieffenbachia is relatively low-maintenance, requiring moderate light and consistent watering. Be cautious, though, as the plant is toxic if ingested, so keep it away from curious pets and small children.
35. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)
The Bamboo Palm, also known as the parlor palm, is a popular choice for improving indoor air quality. It thrives in low to moderate light conditions and is relatively easy to care for. Its lush, feathery fronds add a touch of tropical elegance to your living room, making it a soothing and relaxing environment. Not only does the Bamboo Palm enhance the aesthetics of your space, but it also purifies the air, removing harmful toxins.
36. Rex Begonia (Begonia rex-cultorum)
Rex Begonias are prized for their stunning, colorful foliage and are perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your living room. These plants feature intricate patterns and vibrant hues on their leaves, making them true statement pieces. They thrive in indirect light and prefer higher humidity levels. To care for Rex Begonias, provide them with well-draining soil and water when the top inch of the soil feels dry. These plants can be a bit temperamental, but the visual reward is well worth the effort.
37. Peperomia (Peperomia spp.)
Peperomia, known for its fleshy, succulent-like leaves, is a great choice for living rooms with low to moderate light conditions. With over 1,000 species, Peperomias come in various shapes and colors, making them a versatile choice for plant enthusiasts. These plants are easy to care for, requiring infrequent watering and maintaining their attractive appearance year-round. Their compact size and unique foliage make them ideal for small living room spaces.
38. Staghorn Fern (Platycerium spp.)
For those who desire a touch of the exotic and a unique twist to their living room decor, the staghorn fern is a fascinating choice. These epiphytic ferns are mounted on boards or hung in baskets, creating an eye-catching display. They prefer bright, indirect light and require occasional misting or dunking to maintain humidity levels. Staghorn ferns are sure to be a conversation starter, showcasing your love for plants and creativity.
39. Polka Dot Begonia (Begonia maculata)
The Begonia Maculata is a stunning choice for those looking to make a bold statement in their living room. It features striking, silver-spotted leaves that contrast beautifully with its bright red undersides. These begonias prefer medium to bright, indirect light and require consistently moist soil. Their exotic appearance adds an element of luxury and drama to your interior design.
40. Lavender (Lavandula spp.)
Lavender is well-known for its delightful fragrance and therapeutic properties. While it’s typically associated with outdoor gardens, you can successfully grow lavender indoors in a sunny living room. Lavender’s calming scent can help reduce stress and promote relaxation, making it a perfect choice for a space dedicated to leisure and serenity. To ensure its well-being, provide it with plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil. Remember not to overwater; lavender prefers slightly drier conditions.
41. Nerve Plant (Fittonia spp.)
Fittonia is a beautiful addition to any living room. Its striking, multicolored leaves make it a decorative favorite. Fittonia thrives in medium to bright, indirect light and prefers consistently moist soil. Its vibrant foliage can add a pop of color and a lively atmosphere to your living space. It is a relatively low-maintenance plant, making it suitable for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts.
42. Shamrock Plant (Oxalis spp.)
Oxalis, commonly referred to as the wood sorrel, is celebrated for its charming, clover-shaped leaves. These delicate plants can add an element of elegance to your living room. Oxalis thrives in bright, indirect light and enjoys slightly moist soil. It is worth noting that some Oxalis species may go dormant during certain periods, but they will come back to life with the right care. Their unique leaves and seasonal growth patterns make them a captivating choice.
43. Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe spp.)
Kalanchoe is a group of colorful succulents that are perfect for indoor settings. These vibrant, easy-to-maintain plants come in various shades, such as red, pink, and yellow, adding a pop of color to your living room. Kalanchoe plants require minimal care and can thrive in indirect sunlight. It is one of the best indoor plants for the living room.
44. Cactus (Cactaceae spp.)
Cacti are known for their low maintenance and striking appearance. These succulents come in various shapes and sizes, making them an excellent choice for living room decor. Their unique ability to store water in their thick stems allows them to thrive in dry conditions. Place them in well-draining pots and provide them with plenty of sunlight.
45. Venus Flytrap (Dionaea muscipula)
For those looking to add an element of surprise and curiosity to their living room, the Venus Flytrap is a fascinating choice. These carnivorous plants have specialized leaves that snap shut when insects trigger them, providing both an intriguing conversation starter and natural pest control.
46. Dragon Tree (Dracaena draco)
The Dragon Tree is an elegant, tree-like plant that can add a touch of drama to your living room. With its slender, architectural leaves and a striking red-edged variety available, it’s a favorite among interior designers. It can tolerate lower light conditions and purifies the air, making it a practical and aesthetic choice.
47. Rex Begonia ‘Escargot’ (Begonia rex-cultorum ‘Escargot’)
Rex Begonias are known for their stunning foliage, and the ‘Escargot’ variety is no exception. Its leaves feature a spiral pattern resembling a snail’s shell, making it a unique and eye-catching addition to your living room. These plants thrive in well-draining soil and prefer high humidity levels.
48. String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)
The String of Pearls is a unique trailing succulent that is sure to capture attention. Its cascading vines adorned with small, bead-like leaves make it an excellent choice for hanging pots or planters. Place it near a bright window, and it will create a captivating curtain of green.
49. Norfolk Island Pine ‘Aurea’ (Araucaria heterophylla ‘Aurea’)
If you’re looking for a living room tree, the Norfolk Island Pine ‘Aurea’ is an excellent choice. With its golden-tipped needles, this pine tree adds a touch of elegance to your space. It requires bright, indirect light and regular watering to keep it thriving. It’s one of the best indoor plants for the living room.
50. Oxalis ‘Iron Cross’ (Oxalis tetraphylla)
The Oxalis ‘Iron Cross’ is a charming and distinctive plant known for its clover-shaped leaves with a purple “iron cross” pattern. It brings an element of good luck and uniqueness to your living room. These plants thrive in bright, indirect light and require well-draining soil. It is one of the best indoor plants for the living room.
Some other indoor plants for the living room:
- Anthurium (Anthurium andraeanum)
- Pencil Cactus (Euphorbia tirucalli)
- Blue Star Fern (Phlebodium aureum)
- Red Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura ‘Erythroneura’)
- Moon Valley Pilea (Pilea mollis)
- English Ivy (Hedera helix)
- Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum)
- Rattlesnake Plant (Calathea lancifolia)
- Wax Plant (Hoya carnosa)
- Flame Violet (Episcia)
- Lipstick Plant (Aeschynanthus)
- Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia)
- Friendship Plant (Pilea involucrata)
- Bonsai (Various species)
- Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)
With this diverse list of 50 plus 15 indoor plants, you have the opportunity to transform your living room into a lush and inviting oasis. Whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast or a newbie to the world of indoor gardening, there’s something for everyone. These plants not only beautify your living space but also improve air quality and contribute to your overall well-being. So, embrace the joy of nurturing indoor plants and let them breathe life into your living room, making it a healthier, more beautiful place to relax and unwind. Hope you like this article. Do check other articles by clicking here. Happy transforming! 😀
