Ready to test your green thumb out on a new feature plant for your home? Here are five different varieties that are challenging the fiddle-leaf fig for indoor plant supremacy
Both the fiddle-leaf fig (ficus lyrata) and the large-leafed monstera deliciosa (AKA Swiss cheese plant) have been at the forefront of the indoor plant trend that’s taking the interior world by storm over the past few years but we’re ready to turn a new leaf and test our green thumbs out on a new feature plant. That’s not to say your beloved FFL or monstera should end up in the compost. When it comes to indoor plants, the more the merrier, we say!
If you’re ready to branch out an invite a new potted friend into your home, here are five indoor plants that we predict will steal the spotlight in 2020.
1. Banana trees
If you’re looking to take your greenery obsession to the next level, go large. An indoor tree like a banana palm will add a sense of drama to your home – not to mention turn it into a tropical paradise.
2. Olive tree
Although this ancient species is typically and outdoor plant, they are becoming a popular choice for indoors, especially in modern country homes. With its delicate, soft green leaves and thin grey branches, an olive tree will make an elegant statement. As they are accustomed to growing outdoors, make sure you pop them in a sunny spot in your home and take them outside occasionally for a good dose of UV light.
3. Cast iron plant
Don’t let its soft and wispy leaves fool you! The Aspidistra Elatior is aptly named ‘cast-iron plant’ for its ability to withstand even the most adverse conditions. Its evergreen leaves that rise up from tough, rhizomatous roots, create a lush and leafy display, indoors and out. Warning: due to the shape of its leaves, the cast iron plant can be easily confused with a Peace lily.
4. Long-leaf fig
A distant cousin of the fiddle leaf fig, the long leafed fig (Ficus longifolia) is set to be the new favourite in Australian homes. “The long leaf fig is a real performer indoors and makes the most perfect indoor tree,” says Richard Unsworth, director of Sydney nursery Garden Life. “It has a graceful, delicate and elegant branching habit that lends itself perfectly to the light airy and fresh interiors that are in Vogue right now.” Like it’s cousin, these can grow very tall if allowed!
5. Cacti and succulents
Did you know that Australia is the Earth’s driest inhabited continent? With widespread drought across the country and water restrictions in place for many areas, people are conscious of reducing their water usage at home. So it’s no surprise then that cacti and succulents are becoming increasingly popular in homes and gardens. Drought-tolerant and virtually indestructible, the best thing about succulents and cacti is you don’t need a green thumb to grow them.
This article originally appeared on Homes to Love Australia.
Words by: Olivia Clarke. Photography by: Nikole Ramsay, Chris Warnes, Toby Scott, Gaelle Le Boulicaut, Kristina Soljo.