9 Unique Indoor Plants to Spruce Up Your Space
Introduction
Indoor plants are more than pretty decorations – they bring life to your space, improve air quality, and even boost your mood. Whether you’re a plant lover or just looking to add some greenery to your home or workplace, choosing unique plants can complement your space beyond the more common varieties, adding diversity and charm to your living space.
Why Choose Unique Indoor Plants Instead of the More Common Varieties?
Sure, they are eye-catching statement pieces - but they also reflect your personality and style. Some rare varieties have extra perks like air-purifying properties or low-maintenance care needs. Unique selections can also be conversation starters, giving your space a distinct character that makes it feel more like home.
A well-placed plant can transform a dull corner into a refreshing focal point, making your environment more inviting and inspiring. Whether you're looking to create a calming oasis in your bedroom or a statement piece for your living area, there’s a unique plant for you.
In this blog, we introduce you to nine stunning and unusual indoor plants that are easy to care for and are guaranteed to breathe new life into your space. We’ll also cover how to choose the right plant for your home and some essential care tips to keep your green friends thriving.
Why Indoor Plants Matter for Your Space
They Improve Air Quality
Did you know that some plants can help filter toxins from the air? NASA’s Clean Air Study found that certain houseplants can remove harmful chemicals like benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene. While you may need a whole jungle to significantly purify the air in your home, every bit helps! Plants also increase humidity, which can be great for your skin and respiratory health. They can also act as natural dust trappers, helping to reduce allergens in your living space.
They boost your mood and productivity
Studies show that being around plants can reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance creativity. The presence of plants in offices has been linked to increased job satisfaction. In homes, they create a soothing atmosphere that promotes well-being. Having plants nearby can also encourage mindfulness, as caring for them fosters a sense of routine and connection to nature. A touch of greenery can make a difference to your overall well-being.
They Elevate Interior Design
Plants effortlessly complement different decor styles; if you’re drawn to modern minimalism, rustic charm, or a boho-chic aesthetic, there’s a plant that fits the bill. Large statement plants like the Fiddle Leaf Fig or Monstera create striking focal points, while trailing vines such as Pothos or String of Pearls add softness and movement to shelves and hanging planters.
Low-Maintenance vs. High-Maintenance Plants
Not all plants require a green thumb! If you are a beginner, start with low-maintenance options like the Zanzibar Gem or Snake Plant. For those willing to put in a little extra effort, species like the Fiddle Leaf Fig can be incredibly rewarding.
9 Unique Indoor Plant Selections for a Stunning Interior
1. Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)
Why It’s Unique: With its broad, violin-shaped leaves, this choice is a favourite among interior designers, particularly because of its sculptural beauty.
Care Needs: Requires bright, indirect light and consistent watering to prevent leaf drop. It is sensitive to environmental changes, so keep it away from drafts.
Best Placement: Looks stunning in well-lit corners of living rooms, offices, or entryways where it can serve as a statement piece.
2. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Why It’s Unique: Its elegant white blooms bring any space a serene, almost spa-like feel.
Care Needs: Prefers low to medium light and enjoys consistent moisture. It wilts dramatically when thirsty but perks up quickly after watering.
Best Placement: Bathrooms, bedrooms, or anywhere with soft, diffused light.
3. Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Why It’s Unique: Its trailing vines create an elegant, cascading effect, while its green and gold-speckled leaves add a touch of opulence.
Care Needs: Adapts to most lighting conditions and is highly drought-tolerant. Trim regularly to encourage bushier growth.
Best Placement: Looks beautiful in hanging baskets, draped over shelves, or placed on high plant stands.
4. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
Why It’s Unique: Its deep green, glossy leaves and sturdy structure make it a striking indoor feature.
Care Needs: Prefers bright, indirect light and moderate watering. Wipe the leaves to keep their sheen and remove dust.
Best Placement: Works well in entryways, offices, or any well-lit space that needs a bold, structured plant.
5. Swiss Cheese Plant (Monstera deliciosa)
Why It’s Unique: This tropical stunner boasts large, glossy leaves with dramatic natural holes, giving it an eye-catching, jungle-like vibe.
Care Needs: Thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light. Water when the top inch of soil is dry and wipe its leaves regularly to remove dust.
Best Placement: Ideal for large spaces like living rooms or open-concept areas, especially near a window where its sprawling leaves can thrive.
6. Snake Plant (Dracaena trifasciata)
Why It’s Unique: Its upright, sword-like leaves make it one of the most striking low-maintenance plants.
Care Needs: Extremely low-maintenance; tolerates low light and infrequent watering.
Best Placement: Ideal for bedrooms, hallways, and corners that receive minimal natural light.
7. Zanzibar Gem (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
Why It’s Unique: Known as the ‘eternal plant’ for its resilience, its sleek, waxy leaves add a modern touch.
Care Needs: Tolerates low light and requires minimal watering, making it ideal for forgetful plant owners.
Best Placement: Offices, bedrooms, or hallways where light is limited.
8. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Why It’s Unique: With feathery fronds that add softness, the Boston Fern brings a classic, elegant touch.
Care Needs: Prefers indirect light and high humidity. Keep the soil consistently moist.
Best Placement: Best for bathrooms, kitchens, or shaded outdoor patios with high humidity.
9. Umbrella Tree (Schefflera actinophylla)
Why It’s Unique: Its canopy-like leaves create a tropical, airy feel, and it grows tall with a graceful silhouette.
Care Needs: Thrives in medium to bright indirect light with regular watering.
Best Placement: A fantastic choice for living rooms, open-plan spaces, or any area where height and elegance are needed.
How to Choose the Right Indoor Plant for Your Space
When choosing the right indoor plant, ensuring it thrives in its environment and aligns with your lifestyle is important. Here are some key factors to consider:
Lighting Conditions
Not all indoor spaces receive the same amount of light, so matching your plant to its ideal lighting needs is essential.
- Bright, indirect light: Plants like Monstera, Fiddle Leaf Fig, and Rubber Plant thrive in well-lit spaces with filtered sunlight.
- Low light: If your space lacks natural light, opt for a Snake Plant, Zanzibar Gem, or Peace Lily, which can survive in dim conditions.
- Medium light: Options like Pothos and Umbrella Trees do well in areas with moderate lighting.
Maintenance & Lifestyle Considerations
Some plants require more attention than others. Before choosing a plant, ask yourself how much time you will invest in its care.
- Low-maintenance plants: If you're a beginner or often away from home, go for selections like the Snake Plant or Zanzibar Gem, which require minimal watering.
- Moderate-care varieties: Peace Lilies and Pothos are forgiving but appreciate regular watering and occasional feeding.
- High-maintenance options: Fiddle Leaf Figs and Boston Ferns need specific humidity and watering conditions to thrive.
Best Plants for Different Rooms
- Bedroom: Snake Plant (air-purifying, low-maintenance)
- Office: Zanzibar Gem (thrives in low light, requires minimal care)
- Bathroom: Boston Fern (loves humidity)
- Living Room: Monstera or Fiddle Leaf Fig (bold statement pieces)
Pet-Friendly Plants
If you have pets, it's crucial to choose non-toxic options. The Boston Fern and certain varieties of Calathea are great pet-safe options. However, avoid choices like the Fiddle Leaf Fig and Peace Lily, as they can be harmful if ingested.
By selecting the right indoor plant based on these factors, you can create a thriving green space that suits your home, lifestyle, and design preferences.
Pro Tips for Caring for Unique Indoor Plants
- Watering Techniques: Use bottom watering for plants prone to root rot, mist humidity-loving varieties, and let drought-tolerant options dry out between waterings.
- Soil & Drainage: Well-draining soil is key to preventing root rot. Consider adding perlite or sand for better aeration.
- Pest Prevention: Keep an eye out for gnats and spider mites. A gentle wipe with neem oil or insecticidal soap can help keep pests at bay.
- Seasonal Adjustments: Water less in winter and increase humidity in summer by misting or using a pebble tray.
Conclusion
Adding unique indoor plants to your space is one of the easiest ways to add a fresh burst of greenery and personality to your space. Whether you love the bold foliage of a Monstera, the sculptural elegance of a Rubber Plant, or the effortless charm of a Pothos, there’s a plant for every style and skill level.
Visit our plant nursery - The Grow Centre for an incredible range of unique and easy-care indoor plants. Your perfect plant match is waiting for you!
