Best indoor plants for your home

But just like people, every plant likes different things. So whether you’re shopping for a plant whisperer or someone who finds the responsibility hard, we can help you find a plant that’ll love living with them.

1. Monstera deliciosa (or Swiss cheese plant)

Perfect for: Someone who makes Sundays all about self-care

Nicknamed the Swiss cheese plant because of its holey leaves, the monstera deliciosa has become one of the most popular types of indoor plants over the last few years. And it’s easy to see why - they are real statement-makers. Monsteras are mostly unfussy but they do enjoy the occasional pamper. Their favourite treatment? Having their leaves polished with coconut oil every now and then. Trust us, they’ll thank you for it. But be sure to keep them away from pets. Eating this plant could make them really ill.

2. Rubber plant

Perfect for: The person who hasn’t got much time to relax

Rubber plants are all about balance. They don’t like to be somewhere too sunny, or completely in the shade. And they prefer it when their soil is moist - never waterlogged or too dry. So as long as everything is in alignment, rubber plants are a dream to look after. One of our favourite air-purifying indoor plants, these are a great pick for someone who’s never owned a plant before. But remember to keep it away from pets - this plant is toxic if eaten.

3. Snake plant (or Mother-in-law’s tongue)

Perfect for: Someone who deserves a treat, just because

Sanservias, or snake plants as they’re better known, are extremely low maintenance. Like the friend you barely get to speak to, but when you meet up again it’s like no time has passed. Because they’re succulents, snake plants don’t mind being left alone for a while. The best bit? Snake plants have air-purifying superpowers. They absorb harmful toxins in the air and can even convert CO2 into oxygen during the night. Some say you’re in for a more restful night’s sleep with this plant in your room.

4. Pilea Chinese money plant

Perfect for: Someone who could do with a little bit of luck.

It’s quite easy to see where the money plant gets its name from. Its plump, round leaves are almost coin-shaped. Which is why it’s considered to pass on good fortune to whoever owns one. So if you know someone who’s got a big interview coming up, this would make the perfect surprise gift. Chinese money plants are really easy to look after too. All they need to be happy is a home with lots of natural sunlight and someone who’ll mist them regularly. This plant would actually prefer for its soil to dry out, so it won’t make anyone feel bad if occasional waterings are missed.

5. Boston fern plant

Perfect for: Someone who always checks in

Like its crinkly leaves suggest - the Boston fern plant loves being the centre of attention. So it’d prefer to live with someone who knows when to check in on the people (and plants) they love. The easiest way to make this plant unhappy is by underwatering it. And because it’s used to more tropical weather, it needs lots of mistings too. With the right TLC (see our Boston fern care guide), the Boston fern is a dream to have at home. Its long, ruffled fronds make it one of our favourite decorative house plants. And - bonus - it’s a natural humidifier too.

6. Pothos (or Devil’s ivy)

Perfect for: Someone who’s juggling a lot right now

Pothos are one of the most low-maintenance house plants out there. Whether you pop it somewhere that gets lots of indirect light or use it to perk up a shady spot, it’ll be happy. If you forget to water it, that’s cool too. This plant gets that you don’t always have time to text your best friend back for two weeks. It won’t make you feel bad. That’s why this is one of our favourite indoor hanging plants. We think pothos plants would look great popped on a bookshelf. Or hanging in the window. But remember to keep it out of reach of kids and pets - it can cause an upset stomach if eaten.

7. Asplenium (or Bird’s nest fern)

Perfect for: The person who loves routine

Just like your friend who loves exotic holidays, the asplenium fern (or bird’s nest fern, as we like to call it) thrives in tropical environments. So it’ll be right at home in a steamy shower room, while giving it a hotel spa-worthy look at the same time. Asplenium ferns need owners who know the importance of a good self-care routine - and will keep up with theirs too. Twice-weekly waterings. Regular misting. Daily compliments. This plant likes it all.

8. Prayer plant (or Calathea Orbifolia)

Perfect for: The person who likes having a fuss made of them

We all know someone who shows up to casual events wearing sequins. And if the prayer plant were a person, it’d be that friend. Lovers of light and humidity, these plants are great at brightening up kitchens or bathrooms. And while they may be slow growers, prayer plants can get a little peckish from time to time. So, to help it thrive, it’ll need to be fed some diluted fertiliser every few weeks during growing season (March to September). Be patient with it and before you know it, its leaves will flourish into quite the display.

9. Orchids

Perfect for: Someone who wants flowers in their home 24/7

Known for their flair and elegance, orchids are great for those who love to fill their home with little luxuries. And despite what their appearance may suggest, these aren’t high-maintenance plants. They just want to live with someone who’ll keep them in a sunny spot and remember to water them weekly. What we love most is how many different shades they come in. Whether you choose one that’s vibrant orange, or opt for a more delicate, pink orchid, we can’t think of a lovelier way to add a pop of colour to your (or someone else’s) home.

10. Peace Lily

Perfect for: Someone who’s a bit forgetful

Pretty to look at, easy to care for and air purifying - our peace lily plant is the perfect all-rounder. A real treat for new plant owners, these indoor flowering plants are one of the few that can tell you when it needs a drink. As soon as its leaves start drooping, it’s time for a quick water. And because they symbolise luck and prosperity, peace lilies make a great surprise pressie for someone who’s starting a new job, moving house or in need of a little support.

11. Pachira money tree

Perfect for: The person who can’t get off Pinterest

In their early growing stages, money trees may look unassuming. But within a year, these plants can increase up to 20 inches in height! So no matter where it’s placed, it’ll always stand out. They'll be happiest living with someone who's really attentive - like the flatmate who always knows when to pop the kettle on. So they can grow evenly, money trees need to be turned each time they’re watered. But in return for all the lovely TLC, they might bring good fortune into the house - these plants are considered to be lucky.

12. ZZ plant (or Zamioculcas Zamiifolia)

Perfect for: Someone who’s just got a new job

There are so many things to love about ZZ plants. They don’t mind shady spots (making them great plants for home offices). And they don’t need watering often either. But the best part? They’ve got air-purifying powers and will increase the oxygen levels in your home.

ZZ plants are very distinctive. Nicknamed the ‘raven plant’, over time its leaves turn from bright green to deep black. So we think it’s perfect for that friend who intends to start wearing more colour, but always leaves the house in black.