Elevate your space with the ultimate easy-care houseplant! Snake Plants are the best air purifiers in the world of horticulture.

Owning house plants has a long list of benefits, but are some more powerful than others? The Snake Plant (scientific name sansevieria and also known as Mother-in-law’s Tongue) is not just popular for its unique, variegated, and striking appearance. It is actually widely considered one of the most beneficial indoor plants for a number of different reasons! What’s more? It has even a couple extra benefits when placed in a space of rest and relaxation.

The Many Benefits of the Snake Plant

Looking to get better sleep? There’s arguably no better option for the bedroom than the Snake Plant, a plant that beyond boasting many benefits, requires little to no care to enjoy its beauty. Keep reading to learn about the benefits of having a Snake Plant in the bedroom!

1. It’s A Fantastic Oxygen-Producing Plant

All plants produce oxygen, but according to Nasa’s Clean Air Study, some are even better at it than others. The Snake Plant is considered to be one of the best plants with the highest oxygen producing qualities and air purifiers, along with others like the Rubber Plant and the Cascading Pothos. Studies show that higher oxygen levels promote deeper sleep, but that’s not all…

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2. It Even Produces Oxygen At Night

Contrary to popular belief, plants don’t produce oxygen 24/7. In fact, most plants only produce oxygen with daylight through the process of photosynthesis. At night, on the other hand, these plants take in oxygen and release carbon dioxide, a process called respiration. However, the Snake Plant is one of the lucky few that continues to produce oxygen at night, making it the ideal plant to place in your bedroom for better sleep and to help you breathe.

3. They Filter Out Harmful Pollutants

Studies have shown that indoor air quality and indoor air pollution is often even worse than what we find in densely populated cities. The same Nasa Clean Air Study mentioned above also found that Snake Plants work double time removing harmful toxins and gases like benzene, formaldehyde, xylene, and odor from our indoor environments. These harmful air pollutants can be found in regular household objects like carpeting, furniture polish, and cleaning supplies.

4. Effective Against Allergies

Plants with such powerful room air purifying and oxygen-producing qualities will of course help to combat allergies, as they remove harmful pollutants and volatile airborne chemicals that can aggravate allergies, and in some cases even make you sick. Combine this with oxygen-producing powers and you have easier breathing both day and night.

5. Low-Light Thriving and Easy To Care For

Like to keep your bedroom on the dimmer side? The Snake Plant can is easy-to-grow and can survive and thrive in almost any lighting scenario, from bright direct rays of sunlight to areas with almost no natural light. It also requires very little water, humdity, can be watered sparingly with little to no upkeep, the Snake Plant will help maintain a calming and beautiful bedroom space with excellent purification— the way it should be!

Ready to add a Snake Plant to your life? Find the perfect size and pair it with your favorite pot color and style and get ready for a cleaner, most beautiful bedroom space! Found the perfect Snake Plant? Learn how to care for and how to grow it with our articles The 10 Commandments Of Snake Plant Care and How To Care For And Grow Your Snake Plant.

At Léon and George, we're on a mission to bring the beauty of nature and indoor gardening into your daily life. Our hand-selected, California-grown plants such as the Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree, Ficus Audrey, and Bird of Paradise are carefully chosen for their quality, health, and beauty. We believe in simplicity, fairness, and sustainability, sourcing our plants from trusted local growers who share our values. When you bring a Léon and George plant into your home, you're not just getting greenery – you're getting a piece of nature treated with our all-natural products and staged for optimal growth. We're here to make plant ownership accessible and enjoyable for everyone, fostering a connection between people and the natural world.

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The Braided Money Tree, or Pachira aquatica, is deeply beloved, with a dazzling reputation for bringing good luck and prosperity to its owner. From its intriguingly braided trunk (how do they get that way?) to the way they often seem to pop up at thriving businesses, the Braided Money Tree simply feels like a vibrant mystery to be solved. Naturally, our curiosity ran wild, and we took a deep dive into the history of this mythical plant. Get ready—the story of the Braided Money Tree is truly one worth telling!

It All Begins With A Legend

Cue our instant interest: we love an enthralling backstory. According to legend, the history of the Braided Money Tree was rooted many centuries ago, when a Taiwanese farmer in dire financial straits found a stray Pachira growing in his field. Taken by its beauty, he decided to try his hand at growing more plants from that Pachira’s seeds, in the hope that others would be similarly enthralled with their charm. And they were! The Pachira became wildly popular across Taiwan, and the farmer grew prosperous and wealthy from his crops. That’s why he started calling them Money Trees.

Sound Too Good To Be True? Here’s The Grounded Version 

Okay, so the legend may be just that: a legend, but we know some things for sure: the Pachira has long been a popular ornamental tree—especially in Japan, where Bonsai practitioners have treasured them for years as vivid, semi-aquatic mini trees. We also know that the telltale braid gained traction in the 1980s. This is the era during which the popularity of the Braided Money Tree expanded internationally, with exports of the Pachira stretching far and wide. 

Tell Me More About That Braid…

We love the Pachira’s braid and the elegant trunk, and so do Feng Shui practitioners, who suggest placing it in wealth or health areas of your home. With its iconic twist of five trunks, it conjures the five elements of Feng Shui in harmony: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. There’s also an intriguing bit of ambiguity as to who originated the practice of braiding the trunks. (That’s right, they’re braided by hand!) Some accounts tell of early bonsai practitioners in Japan starting the braid. Others tell of a Taiwanese gardeners named Liu. He is credited with discovering that when starting the braid early in the Pachira’s growth, it continues that growth pattern over time on its own. The result is a full, condensed canopy of leaves with an iconic and aesthetically pleasing tree shape.

The Significance of the Braided Money Tree

The Braided Money Tree has been symbolic of prosperity since its first cultivation. They’re believed to bring wealth in finances, fulfillment and overall security. They’re also emblematic of good luck, so when you gift one to yourself or a loved one, just remember: you’re giving the gift of a plant that, according to legend, lifted its original farmer from the depths of despair to a position of fortune, comfort and positivity. It was lucky indeed when he found that Pachira in his field—and lucky for us that he shared the extraordinary Pachira with the world! 

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Money Trees

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Indoor plants do so much for us. They add beauty to our space, clean our air, and come with a myriad of mental health benefits to boot. But what if they could do even more? According to the teachings of Feng Shui, they can.

We asked expert Anjie Cho of Holistic Spaces to give us the scoop on how plants can bring us good Feng Shui, which plants are particularly impactful, and where to place them in our homes to maximize the benefits.

“Plants are a way to bring nature’s energy into our homes and interior environments. Nowadays, we spend more and more time indoors, and having plants in our homes is a way to reconnect with nature and ground us,” says Cho. “In an energetic sense, they are very healing for us, and in a practical sense, they improve the air quality, provide soft surfaces, and beautify our home.”

What is feng shui?

In a nutshell, Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese philosophy which uses energy forces to harmonize individuals with their surrounding environment and the natural world. Translating to “wind” (feng) and "water” (shui), the basic principles of Feng Shui lie in the belief that we can live more harmonious and fulfilling lives if we connect and flow with the space around us.

“It’s about mindfulness of our home environments,“ says Cho. “It’s paying attention to all the details in our home so that we can create more supportive and nurturing environments that inspire joy and relaxation,” she adds.

“It’s really important nowadays as we are so inundated with stress and speediness in our modern lives. Having a place to to recharge is more necessary than ever, and Feng Shui gives us the tools to know how to create environments that support us.”

Using plants for better feng shui

There are five elements in Feng Shui, and plants represent the wood element, which, according to Cho, “contributes to life-affirming, bright, and healing energy, and as such can help us create more harmony in the home.”

While Cho believes that all living plants are great for Feng Shui, you don’t want unhealthy plants, as sick and dying plants represent sick and dying energy. And as a general rule of thumb, she recommend plants with soft and rounded foliage, as opposed to spiky or thorny stems or leaves. 

In terms of placement, a few areas she recommends are the wealth area, the entrance, and offices or bedrooms:

• Wealth area - Stand in the doorway facing any room, you can generally find the wealth area in the far left corner. Place greenery here to promote wealth and prosperity, and consider even the Braided Money Tree for extra luck in this area.

• Entryway - Representing your “face to the world”, putting plants at near the entryway of your home helps to cultivate and invite more positive energy into your space and life.

• The office - Use plants on your desk or in your office for success in your work and career.

• The bedroom - Place plants in the relationship area of your bedroom for growth and harmony in your relationship.

The best Feng Shui plants

Almost all living plants are good for Feng Shui, but are there some more powerful than others? Cho shared with us some of her favorite Feng Shui plants and why, so get ready to dive into the world of Feng Shui with a beautiful indoor plant!

Zanzibar gem

“The Zanzibar Gem is easy to grow and is great at withstanding drought. It represents resiliency, grounding, and longevity. Its upward growing leaves and fast-growing nature are also symbolic of good fortune.” adds Cho.

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PILEA PEPEROMIODES

“Some plants are more auspicious than others,” explains Cho. “Also known as the Chinese Money Plant, the leaves round like coins and echo feelings of abundance.” She recommends placing this plant in the wealth area of the home.

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Fiddle leaf fig tree

“These plants are known to be finicky, but that can be a good thing. It’s a plant that might require more patience and upkeep than some others, helping to cultivate kindness and challenging us to consider and care for another living thing.”

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Braided money tree

“Another plant associated with wealth and prosperity in Feng Shui, the Money Tree is a great choice to place in an office or in the wealth area of your home,” says Cho.

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cascading pothos

“I received this plant as a housewarming gift when I moved to New York in 2003 — it is so resilient and has traveled with me to many homes,” tells Cho. “This plant shows a lot of growth and is great for beginners.”

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Anjie Cho is a Feng Shui expert. She is the founder of the Holistic Spaces blog, store, and podcast as well as the co-founder of the Mindful Design Feng Shui School, where she teaches courses. Check out her book Holistic Spaces: 108 Ways to Create a Mindful and Peaceful Home by CICO books. More info at www.holisticspaces.com

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If you’re a lover of nature, Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion for you. It’s a time to celebrate the ones that we love: to express our affection and gratitude for the family, friends and partners that bring joy to our lives. And the best part is, on Valentine’s Day, we say it with plants. From sprays of red roses to carnations and even bay leaves, each traditional Valentine’s Day plant has its own age-old symbolism. Read on, because the stories behind this holiday’s most popular gifts are truly intriguing!

Red Roses

Red roses were the favorite flower of Venus, the goddess of love in Roman mythology, so it stands to reason that the rose has become a Valentine’s Day mainstay. Legend has it that roses first bloomed when Venus appeared from the sea, and they were cultivated as far back as the era of Ancient Greece. The gifting of English garden roses among friends and lovers gained popularity in the Middle Ages, sparking the Valentine’s Day tradition that is now standard. But roses have enjoyed their popularity for thousands of years, and the Rosa species itself is 35 million years old.

Anthuriums

As if their heart-shaped spades weren’t romantic enough, anthuriums have a bountiful association with love across many cultures. In the feng shui tradition, they are associated with good fortune in relationships. In Greek myth, they’re known as the “Arrows of Cupid”, the god of love and attraction.

Carnations

Also known as “The Flowers of the Gods”, carnations are native to the Mediterranean, with their scientific name, Dianthus, meaning “Divine Flower” in Greek. Carnations are another popular flower to signify love, with the color of their blossoms denoting different connotations. For instance, red carnations signify passionate love, whereas pink carnations signify gratitude and admiration.

Bay Leaves

In 1700s England, a tradition arose in which women would pin five bay leaves to their pillow before bed on the evening of Valentine’s Day, in the hope that the leaves, when combined with a prayer, would reveal the face of their true love. They would then recite the prayer of “‘Good Valentine, be kind to me, in dreams let me my true love see” before drifting to sleep. We hope this charming ritual was as effective as it is heartwarming!

Calandivas

The Calandiva or Kalanchoe plant is traditionally associated with love, persistence and prosperity, due to its profusion of long-lasting blossoms. As a potted flower variety, they’re well suited for a long life of abundant flowers, with blooms that can last six weeks or more. They typically bloom in winter and spring, and will blossom year after year. All they need to flourish for years is a sunny spot and a little love.

Every time a holiday rounds the bend, we’re reminded of how deeply tied we are to the natural world. Our connection to nature and our appreciation of its beauty, shines through with special strength during times of celebration. And on Valentine’s Day, we receive an extra-special reminder that we’re all part of nature, bound by love on our beautiful green planet.

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Potted Flowering Plants

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• How sending a gift works

  Join hundreds of customers in choosing Léon & George for all their gifting needs. We make it effortless to send an impressive and upscale Valentine’s Day gift to someone special. Enjoy some of the perks of sending a beautiful plant or flowering plant gift with Léon & George:

  • Fast, nationwide shipping with express and overnight options

  • Innovative, custom packaging that ensures your gift arrives in pristine condition

  • Personalized gift message options

  • Select your preferred ship date, if desired

• The Best Valentine's Day Plant Gifts

  Not sure what to send them? Browse our full collections of excellent gifts for all occasions and Valentine’s Day gifts:

  • Popular Gifts

  • Flowering Plants

  • Valentine’s Day Gifts

Autumn brings a host of visual treats with it, but none more soothing than the way it causes the world to glow with that unforgettable, soft fall light. And it’s not just a figment of your imagination! The fall season really does cause a change in sunlight and the way we perceive it. Even our plants embrace autumn light with new behaviors. Read on to learn more. 

The Hows and Whys of Fall Light

Seasons occur as a result of the Earth turning on its axis as our planet orbits the sun. It all comes down to this tilt: at the height of summer (for the northern hemisphere), the sun is shining directly down on us creating bright beams of summer sunshine. 

During autumn, the tilt of the Earth means the sun is lower on the horizon, casting a longer, weaker ray of light, hence the glow that we’ve come to love and associate with this season. This is also why shadows are longer during the fall: because of the Earth’s tilt, the Sun’s light hits the Earth at a lower angle. 

But What Does This Mean for my Plants?

Because fall light is more evenly diffused, this will likely result in your plant receiving more or less light (depending on the time of day) than it did in the summer. Plants can react to this with phototropic behavior (reaching and growing toward the source of light). 

This newly softened sunlight can also mean that plants that you would usually keep away from direct sunlight can be placed in its path without issues. Depending on your plant’s individual lighting requirements, you may wish to move it to a brighter location. 

Beautiful Fall Light in Action

What an exquisite example of the soft autumn light we love! This gorgeous Bird of Paradise is bathed in classic, afternoon fall light. Note the shadows and deep, plush quality of the sunlight- it’s a far cry from the strong light of summer, and it softens the entire space. Because the light-loving Bird of Paradise is still situated close to the window, it’s still healthily nourished, even as the season shifts. Photo credit: @caropeony

This gorgeous apartment features two Léon & George plant varieties and they both appear to be loving the diffuse autumn light they’re receiving. The Monstera (ever the easy-going spirit!) has no qualms about the direct sunlight it is receiving. Too much bright, direct light can irritate Monsteras, but this is less likely to be a problem during the fall, when the light is soft and golden. The towering Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree is also thriving in direct sunlight. Photo credit: @mr.cigar

What a difference a few hours can make! In the photo to the left, we see the long, crisp shadows and even distribution of soft light that is typical of fall mornings. The hazy, golden late afternoon light on the right is so evocative. Photo credit: @twenty_figs

Ready to learn more? Check out our light guide for indoor plants, a complete guide on indoor plants and their light needs.

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Like its name implies, the Cast Iron is an incredibly hardy, easy-care plant.

1. Finding the perfect light

2. Creating an ideal environment

3. Discovering your style in greenery

4. Considerations for plant parents with pets

Finding the perfect indoor plant is a lot like finding the perfect couch.

There are so many options out there and so many considerations to make. Similar to the way we shop for furniture, we are often searching for something we not only love aesthetically but will also match our lifestyle. What is the look you are going for, or what size should you get? Do you have the right light conditions for the plant you’ve been eyeing? What if you have pets or small children — are some of these dangerous to have within their reach? We believe plants and people belong together and we’re here to help make every step of the process as easy as possible. Read on for our tips on how to find the perfect plants for your style and space!

The perfect environment = a thriving plant

The most important thing to first consider when choosing a plant for your home or office is the light. Certain plants, like the popular Fiddle Leaf Fig, absolutely require tons of bright indirect light. Be realistic about your light situation (see our light guide if you aren’t sure!), and make sure you choose a plant that fits the kind of light you have in your space.

Tip: On our website, you can filter plants by bright, medium, and low light.

Find a plant that matches both your home’s light conditions and your style! Pictured here: Monstera Deliciosa. Photo by Apt2b.

Plants that match your lifestyle

Consider how involved you will be in your plant care routine. Some plants, like Calatheas, are more demanding than others, which means they are not a great choice for individuals who travel frequently or are forgetful plant parents. Other plants, like Snake Plants or Zanzibar Gems, can go weeks without watering and are generally very low-maintenance.

Tip: Check the care instructions of the plant first to make sure it’s something that matches what you’re looking for in terms of maintenance.

Creating a look you love

If you fill your home with plants it will undoubtedly look like a jungle, but you don’t necessarily need dozens of plants to create this look! Consider what look you are going for, and curate from there. Lush greenery like the Elephant Ear or Bird of Paradise create tropical vibes, while the Monstera Deliciosa has a retro feel and the Fiddle Leaf Fig or Rubber Tree a classic look.

Tip: Not sure what look you want? Go for one large statement plant, or group a few different plants of differing heights together.

Plants like the Staghorn Fern are non-toxic, and safe to have in homes with curious pets and children. Photo by @noshwithtash.

Other considerations

Curious pets at home? There are plenty of pet-safe options, though do keep in mind that unless your pet is likely to consume quite a bit of the plant, you probably don’t need to worry too much about your plant being pet-safe.

Alternatively, you may be looking for plants that work well in certain rooms of your home. Check out our favorite plants for the bedroom or bathroom, and see why these are great choices for these specific spaces.

Still need help?

Reach out and let us help you create your oasis! Email us anytime at hello@leonandgeorge.com to consult with one of our plant stylists in finding the perfect plants for your space.

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Photo: Nicole Franzen

The benefits of indoor plants cover so much more than just our homes and offices, and restaurants have been quick to catch on to the trend. And whether or not you consider yourself a plant person, there’s no denying that a perfect meal is even that more magical when surrounded by nature! From jungle to garden themed and everything in between, check out some of these gorgeous plant-filled restaurants for the perfect lunch or dinner date surrounded by nature’s finest.

Openaire (LA)

Olmsted (Brooklyn)

Aba (Chicago)

Llama Inn (Brooklyn)

Leo’s Oyster Bar (San Francisco)

Bavel (LA)

Frenchie (Boston)

Le Jardinier (NYC)

Openaire (LA)

Photo: The Line

A literal greenhouse (poolside, no less!), Openaire of LA’s Line Hotel is a gorgeous boutique restaurant for modern California fare paired with a healthy dose of lush ferns and tropical foliage.

3515 Wilshire Blvd

Olmsted (Brooklyn)

Photo: Olmsted

In Brooklyn’s Prospect Heights neighborhood, find vertical gardens on the inside and garden beds in their delightful backyard garden. Could it get any better than this?

659 Vanderbilt Ave

Aba (Chicago)

Photo: Aba

From trailing ivies to cascading pothos, we love the way this upscale Chicago restaurant and rooftop lounge makes use of climbing plants throughout their space.

302 N Green St

Llama Inn (Brooklyn)

Photo: @theplaceiwastellingyouabout

Green inside and out, Brooklyn’s Llama Inn serves up delicious Peruvian fare in their plant filled dining room, rooftop bar, and a new outdoor area which they’ve appropriately donned Parque Lllama.

50 Withers Street

Leo’s Oyster Bar (San Francisco)

Photo: Crescent Karasso

There’s a lot to love about the Leo’s Oyster Bar, including its lush wallpaper (adorned with enormous Monstera leaves) and plenty of hanging ferns to literally bring it all to life.

568 Sacramento St

Bavel (Los Angeles)

Photo: Bavel

DTLA is one of the most exciting areas for LA’s food scene, and Bavel is no exception— especially with its gorgeous canopy of trailing vines to dine under!

500 Mateo St

Frenchie (Boston)

Photo: Frenchie Boston

Romance is the word for this Boston gem with blooming florals and a garden-side solarium.

560 Tremont Street

Le Jardinier (NYC)

Photo: Le Jardinier

The name says it all when it comes to this magical, Michelin-starred NYC restaurant: a light-filled and serene indoor garden with green marble walls and unique custom furniture.

1610 Lexington Ave

Have a restaurant that’s teeming with plants in your neighborhood? Let us and our readers know in the comments!

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A Fiddle Leaf Fig with brown spots and leaves falling left and right. Can it be saved?!

So you’re dealing with a dying plant

We’ve all been there. Your plant is dying, it’s possibly not the first time, and you are distressed as to why this keeps happening.

Finding the root cause of why our plants die is crucial to becoming a better plant parent, and one who doesn’t make the same mistake twice! Learn about the factors that can cause an indoor plant to go south, and how to save dying plants in the future.

Common causes for dying plants

Let’s be real. There are dozens of different reasons your plant could be dying, but 99% of them fall into just a few categories. Let’s narrow them down:

• Water. The number one way indoor plants die is by overwatering. While you may love your plant so much and feel inclined to shower it (literally) with love and water, know that most plants need to dry out a bit between waterings in order to thrive. Because overwatering is a quick way to kill your plant, it is always best to err on the side of underwatering, as unlike its opposite, it is pretty difficult to actually kill a plant by simply not watering it. The plant may not look happy, but most will hang on for quite a while with a bit of drought.

• Light. This may seem obvious, but certain plants need a certain amount of light. If your plant isn’t getting the light it needs, it may lead to other problems like over watering (see above!) or a higher risk of getting pests (see below!). Be realistic when choosing the right plants for your space, and if you suspect your plant is unhappy due to its light conditions, move it to another space.

• Pests. Pests like spider mites, mealy bugs, or scale can be a real pain when it comes to indoor plants, especially because we may not notice them until it’s too late. Keep a close eye for the following pests:

  • Mealy bugs. They make white cotton-like masses usually on the underside of leaves.

  • Spider mites. Too small for the naked eye to see, these pests will leave thin silky webs around your plants foliage and stems.

  • Scale. These may not look like they’re moving, but you will see them all the same as brown, hard-shelled insects that suck the nutrients from your plant’s leaves.

• Nutrient deficiency. Though this is the least likely cause of plants dying or starting to die, it can lead to a sad looking plant over time. If your plant has not been repotted in many years, and/or if you do not fertilize regularly, your plant may have a nutrient deficiency. Consider repotting your plant to give it fresh soil (from which it gets lots of nutrients!) or incorporate a regular feeding routine with a gentle fertilizer like Boost Vitaminé.

How to save a dying plant

If you’ve found the cause of your dying plant, there may still be time to fix it.

• Overwatering. Plants that have been severely overwatered may be suffering from root rot, and the only way to save a plant from root rot is repotting. Remove your plant from its pot, remove all the mushy, black roots, and wash the remaining healthy roots thoroughly with water. You may need to repot your plant in a smaller pot if there are not many roots left. Read our full guide on how to treat root rot here. You may also decide to cut off the healthy stems and propagate, using rooting hormone to encourage the growth of a new plant.

• Pests. There are several solutions to saving a dying plant plagued with pests, but they may vary depending on what you’re treating for. Spider mites and their larvae can be washed away with a steady stream of water, and scale can be removed (painstakingly, one by one!) with alcohol and a q-tip. Very serious infestations may require insecticidal soap. As always, prevention is the best way to avoid pests, and we recommend using neem oil to keep the bugs at bay!

Becomming a successful plant parent

Successfully growing your indoor plants is all about keeping staying in tune with your plant and its needs. That means regularly checking on them (beyond simply watering!), learning as you go, and catching any issues or missteps before they become a serious problem. Rest assured that even the greenest of thumbs has killed a plant or two in their lives, and that by no means should you ever give up! Now go forth and keep those plants alive and thriving!

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Philodendron 101

What is a Philodendron, you ask? It’s a good question! Among plant aficionados, Philodendron is a word you’ll hear frequently, so you’ve likely wondered what the fuss is about. The Philodendron genus is expansive, consisting of over 400 tropical plants, many of which are often grown for the indoors. 

Philodendrons are beloved for their pronounced and often heart-shaped leaves, as well as the sheer variety of plants in the genus. Some also feature aerial roots, and plants like the Philodendron Brasil grow in attractive tendrils, lending a jungle ethos to their environment.

Features like these made Philodendrons a mainstay of stylish homes in the 1970s, a decade during which houseplants enjoyed tremendous popularity (Earth Day was founded in 1970, after all!). Houseplants, including lush and leafy Philodendron varieties, were a way of bringing the outdoors in and communing with the beauty of nature.

The popularity of Philodendrons waned in the 1980s as trends shifted toward a more industrial and modern aesthetic, and in the 1990s, orchids reigned supreme. But with the advent of the Jungalow in 2017 and a still-swelling nostalgia for the ‘60s and ‘70s, Philodendrons are back to basking in the soft light of our affection. With their preference for medium to bright indirect light, they’re a perfect choice for a kitchen or well-lit bedroom. And they’re exceptionally versatile- we carry a number of Philodendrons here at Léon and George, and you may not even have realized that some are actually Philodendrons.

So shop around, because there’s a perfect Philodendron out there for every space— other than those that house pets (or babies, or just strange people) that insist on eating houseplants. The Philodendron genus, as a whole, is considered to be toxic. So indulge enthusiastically, but responsibly, in the many varieties of beautiful Philodendrons!

Philodendron Care

Wondering if Philodendrons are high maintenance? The short answer is no! These beauties are as easy to care for as they are to look at, just keep in mind a few simple things when caring for your Philodendron:

• Light: Philodendrons prefer bright indirect light, but can adjust to medium levels of light. They can survive with less than ideal light conditions, though they will grow “leggy” and spindly over time.

• Water: Philodendrons for the most part like to dry out in between waterings. That means watering just once a week at the most usually, or whenever the soil feels dry. They will also show you when they’re feeling thirsty, with leaves beginning to look limp and tired.

• Temperature: Philodendrons are for the most part tropical plants and they don’t like the cold. In the winter, keep them away from chilly windowpanes, and in the summer, away from cool air vents. Keep their environment’s temperature above 60 degrees and you should be fine!

Popular Philodendron Varieties

• Philodendron Brasil 

• Red Congo

• Little Hope or Philodendron Selloum

• Heart leaf Philodendron

• Philodendron Pink Princess

• Philodendron Birkin

Three popular philodendron varieties: the Red Congo, Little Hope, and Philodendron Brasil.

Philodendron Brasil

Often mistaken for its cousin, the Cascading Pothos, the Philodendron Brasil is a gorgeous, multi-colored take on the heart-leaf philodendron! The Brasil’s heart-shaped leaves are to die for, and they display beautiful color variegation. They like bright, indirect light best, but are flexible. 

Red Congo

One of our absolute favorites, the Red Congo Philodendron packs a dazzling sangria-colored punch! If you like colorful variegation, you’ll love the Red Congo-- its leaves range from vibrantly ruby (when they’re newly sprouted) to deep burgundy-emerald with age.

Little Hope or Philodendron Selloum

The Little Hope or Philodendron Selloum is a charming, classic Philodendron, with wonderfully curly foliage and rich green tonality. It’s also considered to be one of the best air-purifying plants out there (certified by NASA)! The Little Hope is happy with medium light or a shady environment— a shoo-in for a stylish bathroom! 

Heart leaf Philodendron

This plant is similar to the Philodendron Brasil, but with solid colored leaves.

Philodendron Pink Princess

Like its name implies, this Philodendron is pink (!), and quite hard to come by.

Philodendron Birkin

Another semi-rare Philodendron, the Birkin has white and green striped foliage.

Wondering about the Monstera Deliciosa, often referred to as a split-leaf philodendron? While this plant does indeed have beautiful split leaves, the Monstera is not a philodendron! This misleading name has caused quite a bit of confusion and misinformation. If you’d like to call it by one of its nicknames, go for Swiss Cheese Plant!

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The gorgeous variegated leaves of the N’Joy Pothos.

When it comes to colorful plants, we’ve all fallen in love at one point or another, whether it be with a Pink Rubber Tree, an N’Joy Pothos, or the rare and elusive Variegated Monstera that seemingly only grows on Instagram. Variegated is indeed on trend, and these unique bicolored and tricolored beauties have become some of the most sought-after indoor plants in recent years. But what is variegation, where does it come from, and what do we need to know about variegated plants before bringing them into our home?

What is variegation?

The word variegation refers to flowers or leaves with more than one color. Though it is a term that is used rather loosely in the plant world, a variegated plant is one whose flowers or leaves usually have two or three colors, but can sometimes have more.

Variegated leaves come in many forms and may be the cause of natural occurrences or genetic alterations. Depending on the type of variegation, some plants may be more delicate than others, but all are incredibly beautiful and unique!

Pretty in pink! Seemingly painted on, these pink variegated leaves add a gorgeous splash of color their surroundings. Pictured clockwise from left to right: Magenta Triostar, Pink Rubber Tree, and Calathea Medallion.

Different types of variegated leaves

From “painted” leaves to patches of albino white or shimmering silver, there are many different types of variegated foliage. But what causes variegation, and how do the various types differ? Below are three of the most common types of variegation in popular houseplants:

• Natural variegation - Sometimes also referred to as pigmented variegation, these plants are naturally patterned. The pattern of their leaves is written into their DNA, and every single leaf will grow with this pattern. Though this happens naturally, horticulturists often create cultivars, or hybrid species, to accentuate the natural patterning. Some popular indoor plants and cultivars with natural variegation include the Magenta Triostar, Silver Evergreen, Snake Plant, and Pink Rubber Tree.

• Chimeral variegation - This type of variegation is caused by genetic mutation where some tissue of the plant is able to produce chlorophyll and other tissue is not. The result is a plant with white areas randomly mixed with green areas on leaves, like the incredibly popular yet hard to find Variegated Monstera.

• Reflective variegation - Also known as blistered variegation, reflective variegation naturally occurs when tiny air pockets (blisters) are formed between the different layers or tissues of the plant. When light hits these areas, it is reflected, creating a type of silver shine like on the Satin Pothos.

Top plants with variegated leaves

Magenta Triostar

A member of the prayer plant family, the bright pink and green Magenta Triostar opens and closes its leaves throughout the day.

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Golden Petra

With bright orange, yellow, and red veins, the Golden Petra is a uniquely vibrant plant that thrives with plenty of bright light.

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Calathea Medallion

One of our top-selling gifts, the Calathea Medallion has patterned leaves of burgundy, fuchsia, and shades of green.

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Silver Evergreen

Sage green leaves with silver undertones, this low-light dweller is one of our most popular variegated plants.

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Calathea Rattlesnake

With jagged purple and green leaves, it’s no surprise where this plant got its name, resembling the patterns on the skin of a rattlesnake.

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How to care for variegated plants

Like all plants, each variety will require its own care regimen. That said, variegated plants tend to be on the more delicate side than their non-variegated counterparts, and generally require bright indirect light for their multi-colored leaves to thrive. Plants that are variegated as a result of genetic mutation are particularly sensitive, as they photosynthesize less due to the lack of chlorophyll on the white areas on their leaves.

In some cases, a branch or stem on a variegated plant may start to lose the white areas on the leaves, slowly turning all green. This is known as “reverting”, and is a sign that the plant is simply returning to its natural state. To avoid your plant fully reverting to green, prune stems whose leaves are turning green as soon as they appear.

Where to buy variegated plants

Certain variegated plants can be extremely hard to come by. Etsy is a great place for rare variegated plants, though generally will require some green thumb expertise as they often ship simple cuttings. If you’re in search of the Variegated Monstera, stay in touch by signing up for our newsletter or following us on Instagram — we are always trying to get our hands on them and occasionally hold giveaways when we do!

What are your favorite variegated plants? Let us know in the comments!

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A Zanzibar Gem like the one pictured above can survive with next to no light, but some artificial light will definitely help!

All plants need at least some light to survive, but does it need to be natural light? For those of us with limited sunlight in our homes, owning our favorite indoor plants can be tough. But luckily, having our favorite sun-loving plants in low light places is in fact possible, and that’s where artificial light comes into play.

Growing indoor plants with artificial light

First things first, not all artificial light is created equal. The typical lightbulbs in your home, for example, generally do not contribute much in the way of photosynthesis, especially if they aren’t on for 12+ hours a day. Low-light plants will grow just fine in areas with nothing more than overhead lights or lamps, but others will quickly deteriorate without proper grow lights.

What makes a good grow light?

So what is a proper grow light? The world of grow lights can seem technical and confusing, but it doesn’t have to be! When using artificial light for indoor plants, the goal is to simulate the light of the sun. You may see the words “full spectrum”, “cool light”, and “warm light”, and effective grow lights are simply full spectrum bulbs: bulbs that generate all useful wavelengths for plants with a mixture of cool (blue) and warm (red) light. While you can get extra specific about the exact needs of your plant, generally speaking a balanced ratio of cool and warm is just fine for indoor houseplants.

There are many different types of bulbs you can use to supplement your plant’s light intake and growth, but most would agree that LEDs are not only highly effective but also by far more efficient than their counterparts like incandescent, fluorescent, or high intensity discharge (HID) lights.

And as a tip: you don’t necessarily need an entire fixture to get the job done. The lamps in your home, if positioned correctly, will work just fine with the right bulbs.

Top grow lights for indoor plants

There are hundreds if options when it comes to great grow lights, but not all of them are attractive or take your home’s decor into account. Truth be told, grow lights up until recently were mostly manufactured for commercial purposes and not necessarily residential homes or offices.

Our favorite grow lights are ones that complement your style rather than detracting from it, such as Soltech Solutions for sleek, modern looks, or Modern Sprout for colorful and creative lights.

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The Zanzibar Gem enjoying a routine misting.

The typical home or office has low levels of humidity, but many common houseplants prefer moisture-rich environments. Particularly during the summer and winter when we use air conditioning or heaters, houseplants may suffer from a lack of humidity that they normally enjoy in the wild. Boosting moisture levels is an easy and simple way to help them thrive throughout the year.

How to increase humidity for plants

There are several ways to increase humidity for plants in the home or office. Here are some of the most popular methods:

• Mist your plants. Simple, right? Just remember to do it! Misting every day is great, though even just a few times a week can help. Though this is a more hands-on approach, caring for plants is indeed therapeutic and misting is no exception! We love this stylish polished brass mister, or this watering can with an already-integrated mister.

• Use a humidifier. Want to keep the humidity levels up all day long? Add a small humidifier to your space. This will of course increase humidity in your entire space, and you will need to refill it every few days or so, but this is an excellent way to keep moisture levels up for your plants.

• Create groupings. Plants release moisture through their leaves and as such can benefit from being grouped together. Group plants that require similar environments — Calatheas, for example, need lots of moisture — or use this as a method to keep humidity levels up while you travel.

• Use pebble trays. Another way to increase humidity for plants is to place them over a shallow tray with about one inch of pebbles. Fill the tray and pebbles about halfway up with water and place the plant on top (make sure the plant is not sitting in water as this may cause root rot). Change out the water periodically so that it doesn’t become a breeding ground for pests.

• Watch out for air vents. If you're turning on the AC or heater, move your plants out of the direct path of any air vents. Plants do not like getting blasted with hot or cold air, this will dry them out can lead to greater health issues over time.

Remember that mimicking our plants’ natural environments is key to keeping them happy and healthy. Stay curious about what makes your plant tick, and it will reward you for years to come!

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Indoor plants, potted & delivered

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