Could the Ponytail Palm be right for you?

The Ponytail Palm is a unique plant that requires little attention. Despite its ease of care, Ponytail Palms bring a dramatic and lush presence to any style space. Here’s what you need to know before you buy one.

What is a Ponytail Palm?

Beaucarnea recurvata, known as the Ponytail Palm or the Elephant Foot Palm, is a well-loved houseplant for its ability to thrive in a variety of environments. Part of the Asparagaceae family, these plants are closely related to agave, yucca, and other common houseplants like Dracaenas. Despite its nicknames, these plants are surprisingly not true palms. These evergreen perennials are native to Mexico, but have become popular houseplants all over the world for their ability to bring a tropical, bohemian vibe into any space. 

They need lots of light

Ponytail Palms, while easygoing plants, love as much light as possible. These gorgeous plants are good candidates for the bright, sunnier parts of your space. However, they are prone to sunburn, so ensure that the light is indirect so as not to scorch the plant’s leaves. 

Where to place your Ponytail Palm

In addition to being placed in an indirectly bright area -- morning light from an east or southern-facing window in the Northern Hemisphere -- Ponytail Palms should be kept away from cold drafts, air conditioning units, and cold windows, especially in the summer. 

The Ponytail Palm’s unique shape helps add a burst of fresh color into bright corners or other areas of a home or office. They can survive in partial sun, but are unlikely to grow as quickly as they would in optimal conditions mirroring their native habitat. 

How to water the Ponytail Palm

The number one rule of Ponytail Palm care is to be cognizant of overwatering! While they are colloquially known as Ponytail Palm trees, they are not trees at all -- they’re succulents and should be treated similar to any other succulent or agave-type plant. 

Though incredibly easy to care for, they are sensitive to moisture and prone to root and stem rot, so ensure your plant is in a well-draining, chunky soil mix in a pot with a drainage hole to avoid water buildup. Léon & George Ponytail Palms are “staged” in their ceramic pots for maximum drainage and airflow. In terms of a watering schedule, it’s better to err on the side of dryness with these unique ornamentals -- known to thrive on neglect, these make for excellent home decor for people who travel a lot or simply forget to water their plants. 

Ponytail Palms don’t need to be fertilized

Ponytail Palms don’t require a lot of attention, therefore fertilizing isn’t necessary -- this is one of the many reasons why Ponytail Palm care is so straightforward. If you choose to fertilize your plant, opt for a natural, organic fertilizer for succulents and use it during the spring/summer growing season. 

Common problems with Ponytail Palms

The most common problems people have with their Ponytail Palm trees are due to overwatering. Often, people report their plant experiencing brown tips, which is more often than not an issue with overwatering. Their native area of Mexico is dry and hot -- not humid like most people think of when they think of palm-looking plants. 

To mitigate brown tips on your Ponytail Palm, reduce watering to a steady schedule of every 2-3 weeks once you notice them occurring. If the discoloration is only occurring at the tips, you’re able to prune the leaves with a sharp, sterilized pair of clippers to maintain the lush green aesthetic. 

Is the Ponytail Palm a good air purifier?

Yes! Ponytail Palms have been identified as among the best indoor air-purifying plants. Along with their cousins the Dracaena and the Snake Plant, these beauties help freshen and purify the environment in your home. 

How to select a healthy Ponytail Palm

Adorable and quirky, the Ponytail Palm makes for the ideal accent to any decor.

When selecting your Ponytail Palm tree, pay close attention to the leaves, ensuring they are lush, firm, and healthy-looking (be careful as you inspect, as the leaves have serrated edges!). Though it's normal for the plant to drop leaves over time as it grows, a Ponytail Palm tree whose leaves come off with a light yank is likely suffering from overwatering or another issue. Carefully inspect the soil as well for pests, weeds, or musky smells. 

They’re safe for pets

Ponytail Palms are an excellent choice for homes with pets, as they are nontoxic to cats and dogs. If your cat loves to nibble on your plants, the Ponytail Palm is a safe option to keep in their reach.

Avoid purchasing your Ponytail Palm from a garden center

Because plants at garden centers are watered en masse, they spend a lot of time saturated -- and often aren’t in chunky enough soil to weather the amount of moisture they are given. In fact, it’s common for them to experience root rot before even leaving the store. While they may have an appealing price tag, it’s not worth the issues of overwatering, from creating an attractive environment for pests to root rot. 

They can propagate themselves!

Ponytail Palms aren’t easy to propagate on their own, but they will sometimes produce offshoot babies from the base of the stump. Once they reach a few inches, they can be carefully cut off as close to the base as possible, scabbed over at the cut part, and planted in a well-draining succulent soil mix.

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The Bird's Nest Fern basking in fall light.

Though houseplants generally live indoors, they, too, note the changing of the seasons. Fall typically means less light, colder temperatures and drier air. Read up on some simple fall plant care tips and set your indoor greenery up for success.

Adjust your watering schedule (hint: water less frequently!)

Less light and cooler temperatures mean that your plant may not need as much water as it did during the summer. Make sure to always check the soil before watering and, if necessary, give your indoor plant a few extra days in between waterings to dry out.

Excess moisture in your plant's soil is dangerous for a handful of reasons (most notably root rot), but maybe none more annoying than insects, specifically flying insects like gnats and mosquitos. While typically harmless, always make sure to treat any infestations as quickly as possible to prevent serious damage.

Make sure your plant is getting enough light

As the days get shorter and shorter, make sure your plant is getting enough light: plants that sometimes do well in one area of your home may not be as happy as they were before.

Signs that your plant is not getting enough light may include pale or yellowing leaves, leggy branches, or leaning towards the light. If you suspect your plant needs more light here are some things you can do:

• The best way to make sure your plant is getting enough light is to move them closer to a window, preferably one that is south or east-facing if you’re in the Northern Hemisphere.

• If your house has limited natural lighting you might want to consider using an artificial light source to meet your plant’s needs.

• Clean its leaves of any dust or grease to make sure they can absorb as much light as possible.

• Rotate your plant every few weeks to ensure the entire plant gets enough sunlight.

Scale back your fertilizing routine

The best time to fertilize your plant is when it’s actively growing in the spring and summer. As the winter approaches, they become less interested in new growth, which means they're less hungry and less thirsty. Here are simple feeding adjustments to make:

• Feeding - shift to fertilizing once a month. Our natural plant food, Boost Vitaminé is an organic plant food with just four ingredients, gentle enough to use year round. 

• Exceptions for new growth - if your plant decides they're up to the task and it sends out new growth, they can have a snack afterward. Never fed? If you've never fertilized your plant and you’ve had it for more than 4 months, give it a nutrient boost. We suggest starting with diluted liquid fertilizer and observing how your plant responds. 

Remember every plant species has different wants and needs, so read up on your plant friends and monitor their changes closely to see what works best.

Watch the temperature

We might love getting cozy in the fall but our houseplants are sensitive to temperature changes. Too cold and they’ll get a kind of frostbite, run the heat too much and you risk drying out their soil.

Indoor plants generally come from tropical regions so they prefer temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees F. Make sure the leaves of plants aren’t touching a windowpane that gets too cold or sitting in front of a vent where they’ll get lasted with air. To mitigate dryness, mist your plant throughout the week, or use a humidifier.

Prune yellow leaves

While it is natural for the leaves of outdoor plants to turn yellow and drop their leaves in the fall, indoor houseplants should be able to stay green all year with the right care. Your plant’s leaves might turn yellow for any of the reasons mentioned above, so carefully monitor the conditions in which you are keeping it. It’s okay to remove dead leaves in the fall but save any major pruning for the growing season!

Good luck, plant parent! And head back to our blog for more simple plant care tips for your indoor greenery.

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Could the Ficus Audrey be right for you?

The Ficus Audrey has been growing in popularity– it may even be the next Fiddle Leaf Fig! And with its abundant rounded foliage and easy-going nature, it’s no surprise why. Here’s everything to know about this ficus before bringing one into your home or office.

Ficus Trees 101

The Ficus genus comprises 850 plants in the Moraceae family, often colloquially referred to as the mulberry or fig family. Among this family of gorgeous, woody trees, shrubs, vines, and more are commonly loved houseplants such as the Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree (Ficus lyrata), Rubber Tree (Ficus elastica), and the Ficus Audrey (Ficus benghalensis).

These popular plants are a favorite among plant collectors and designers alike for their ability to bring elegant foliage into any indoor or outdoor space. The Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree in particular has emerged in the last decade as a reliably chic go-to in living rooms and offices everywhere, but not without gaining a reputation as a diva. The Ficus Audrey tree is currently exploding in popularity, too -- but this plant is even better-suited for novice plant parents for its more forgiving nature and simpler care requirements compared with other ficus varieties.

In cultivation, many ficus grow up to 10 or 12 feet, but reach towering heights in their native areas across Asia and in the wild. The Ficus Audrey boasts velvety, emerald-colored leaves, with striking lime green veining, creating an attractive and jungle-like canopy or striking accent piece to brighten any corner. 

It’s Easier to care for Than The Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree

Ficus Audreys have less finicky light requirements than their fiddle leaf fig cousins -- it can handle minimal direct sun or slight inconsistencies in lighting. Similar to the rubber tree and other ficus such as the genus’ bonsai-like varieties, the Ficus Audrey prefers bright, indirect light.

They’re the same as the Banyan Tree!

The Ficus Audrey, or Ficus benghalensis, is the same species as the banyan tree, the massive trees that create “accessory trunks” with their robust aerial root system. Banyan trees are the world’s largest tree in terms of area coverage. They are also the national tree of India -- it’s not often that you can have a tree with such status growing in your home! 

Where to place the Ficus Audrey

Ficus Audrey plants do well with filtered light, and are susceptible to burning if placed in too bright of an area. In most zones of the northern hemisphere, the ideal spot for an indoor Ficus Audrey tree is a few feet from an eastern-facing window. A southern or western-facing space would also work if placed further from the light source.

Most ficus plants are not low-light tolerant. If you’re hoping to utilize the Ficus Audrey or its close cousins as a way to brighten up a dark corner, use an alternative light source, such as a grow light, to keep the plant healthy. Remember, these are tropical plants and need light, warmth, and humidity.

You’ll Need to water it regularly

Ficus Audrey care differs from that of other ficus trees in that they can tolerate being kept a bit more moist between waterings. Unlike Fiddle Leaf Figs which must be entirely dry before watering, the Ficus Audrey’s ideal scenario is being kept evenly moist with short periods of dryness. However, if that dry period is too long, the plant is bound to drop leaves and experience stunted growth.

They love humidity

To keep your Ficus Audrey thriving, provide the plant with some additional humidity with a humidifier, pebble tray, or by grouping the plant with others. Its native habitats are humid, and allowing the plant some moisture in the air helps to avoid browning or crisping leaves. 

Fertilizing will help spur new growth

These plants are easygoing in regards to fertilizing, but if you choose to incorporate this additional step into your Ficus Audrey care routine, opt for a natural or organic fertilizer and use it during the growing months. 

As always, make sure your plant is in fresh, high-quality, and well-draining soil that contains adequate nutrients. Good substrate additives include coco coir and orchid bark to help aerate the soil to bring the roots oxygen and provide plenty of nutrients.

The adorable Ficus Audrey.

They can sometimes lose leaves

The most common problem people experience with Ficus Audrey is leaf loss or crisping. While these plants can lose leaves for multiple reasons (underwatering, overwatering, or lighting issues), crisp or brown edges can usually be solved with an increase in humidity. 

Ficus Audrey plants are also susceptible to pests such as scale, mealybugs, thrips, and fungus gnats. You’re more likely to experience a pest issue if you’re overwatering the plant, but ficus plants are prone to pest issues across the board. If you spot a pest on another plant in your home, make sure you quarantine it away from your Ficus Audrey and treat your collection proactively with horticultural oil or by removing the infestation by hand. 

How is the Ficus Audrey different from other Ficuses?

In terms of care, the Ficus Audrey is less forgiving than the Rubber Plant, but significantly easier than caring for a Fiddle Leaf Fig -- it’s not as prone to disease or quite as finicky. Many experienced plant parents think of the Ficus Audrey as a happy medium between these plants in  terms of difficulty, but each of these gorgeous ficus varieties are uniquely rewarding in their own way. 

It also offers a different look from common ficus plants. It can be pruned to create a tree-like shape that branches out on top, or can be trained to grow up a single pole, depending on the style of your space. The foliage on Ficus Audrey also stands out from others in the genus. Its leaves are less glossy than those of other ficus varieties, with a more velvet-soft sheen texture. 

How to select a healthy Ficus Audrey

Signs of a healthy Ficus Audrey include plump, large, and vibrate green foliage, strong and thick light-colored trunks and branches, and a healthy-looking root ball free of rot or pests. Because of their tropical nature, Ficus Audrey trees grow aerial roots, which can also indicate a growing, healthy plant.

Are Ficus Audreys toxic for pets or humans?

Ficus Audrey are mildly toxic to pets and humans, so it’s best to keep your plant out of the reach of pets and children. If you’re looking for a pet-friendly, treelike plant to bring into your home, consider a nontoxic option like the Braided Money Tree (Pachira aquatica).

Avoid purchasing your Ficus Audrey from a garden center

Plants at big-box stores tend to be overwatered, and Ficus Audrey are especially susceptible to root rot and pests: two perils of overwatering. Unfortunately, some plants at garden centers experience the beginnings of root rot before leaving the store, and it can be difficult to tell before purchasing. 

Because Ficus Audrey are sensitive to transport as well, it’s prudent to purchase your new plant from a trusted supplier that offers secure packaging and careful delivery. These plants dislike sudden drops in temperature, drafts, and the cold in general, so it’s best to purchase from a grower or supplier that understands how to minimize the impact of the change in environment on your new plant. 

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Indoor plants, like this gorgeous Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree, clean our air and boost our moods!

Forget catered lunches, kombucha on tap, or modern open floor plans. Most employees would forego major perks for a workplace with more greenery, and there is nothing like a few live plants to bring the workplace, and its employees, to life. In recent years, countless studies have concluded that indoor plants don’t just increase productivity in the workplace, but they also reduce stress, boost creativity levels, and in general make us happier, healthier human beings. Whether it’s a small desk plant to care for or an office centered around biophilic design, bringing some greenery into the workplace comes with a handful of proven benefits and ultimately leads to a better work environment for all. Wondering how to create a good work environment with a bit more greenery? Read on to learn more!

They clean the air

Clean air should be a given in our living and working environments, but unfortunately that is not always the case. In fact, many indoor environments are more polluted than outdoor ones, with things like synthetic building materials (think carpet, paint, wood finishes) and everyday items (household cleaners, pesticides, personal care products) filling our air with harmful chemicals and toxins. Cue in some of the best air-purifying plants, which will not only work to filter out things like formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide, but also add a bit of beauty to any corner you place them in.

They increase productivity

What if something as simple as a small potted plant could help us concentrate more at work? As it turns out, it can. Studies have proven again and again that employees perform better in “green” offices, boosting productivity by 15%, cognition by up to 26%, and even doubling general performance. So if you’re wondering how to increase productivity in the workplace, here is a natural (and beautiful!) way to do that.

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They reduce stress

How do you feel when you walk through a forest? We’re guessing pretty good. Recent studies have shown that we humans have an instinctual desire to connect with nature, also known as biophilia, and that plant life, both in nature and indoors, helps to make us feel calm, relaxed, and soothed. In work environments that can sometimes be highly stressful, a bit of greenery can go a long way.

They increase levels of creativity

Just like plants boost levels of productivity, they also help spark our creativity. Studies show that by simply looking at the shapes of plants and their foliage we may increase our creative performance. Other studies have shown that the mere smell of plants and soil can spark creative thinking.

They increase workplace happiness and beautify any space

Let’s be real: plants look good anywhere. They immediately bring drab corners to life, and they add a splash of color to otherwise boring white walls. Even if you have an office with virtually no sun, you can enjoy the benefits of indoor plants that can survive in low-light conditions. It is arguably one of the easiest ways to quickly beautify any workspace.

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Looking to bring a Staghorn Fern into your life? With sage green, velvet like fronds, these gorgeously unique plants are popular for good reason. Easy to care for but with a few quirks, read up on what makes the Staghorn Fern so special, and how to select a perfect fern for your home.

What is a Staghorn Fern?

Staghorn Ferns, or Platycerium bifurcatum, refers to a commonly cultivated group of ferns in the genus Platycerium. Staghorn Ferns are epiphytes, which means that in the wild, they grow on other plants and objects for support, such as on tree trunks or branches. Other examples of common epiphytic indoor plants are hoyas and bromeliads. Uniquely, the Staghorn Fern doesn’t even require soil to grow at all -- in fact, it requires stable support to reach its mature stage, and absorbs most of its nutrients from the air rather than its soil.

Staghorn Ferns can thrive indoors or outdoors, and are particularly well-suited to grow outdoors in humid, warmer climates. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy one of these beauties in your home! Their jagged fronds (fern leaves) make for stunning statement pieces in a variety of interior and outdoor spaces, especially when mounted.

Many plant collectors choose to mount their Staghorn Ferns, which creates a beautiful display reminiscent of moose or deer antlers in the home. This is how they got their common name, and are also often referred to as “Elkhorn Ferns.” In ideal conditions, these gorgeous horticultural oddities can grow up to several feet tall and wide and create a massive, unique focal point in any room or patio. These showpiece houseplants are truly a work of art, especially if it is on your wall!

Staghorn Ferns Need More Light than Most Ferns

Many people think of ferns as a low-light houseplant, but remember that Staghorn Ferns uniquely require more sunlight than most ferns. Put your plant near a good light source, such as an east-facing window or near a skylight.

Another excellent placement option for the Staghorn Fern is the bathroom! When placed in a well-lit bathroom in an indirect sunny spot and periodic humidity from the shower, you may find that your Staghorn Fern grows surprisingly quickly.

They love a humid environment

Staghorn Ferns grow natively in tropical parts of Australia and other parts of Oceania, thriving in these warm, humid environments.

Unlike many other common houseplants, these plants absorb moisture and nutrients through its fronds. Both its basal fronds and front, more prominent fronds, sometimes referred to as “antler fronds” because of the resemblance to deer and elk antlers, are able to absorb water and nutrients. This makes them an ideal candidate for periodic misting between waterings.

To keep your Staghorn Fern thriving, ensure you’re accounting for misting in your watering schedule and avoid overwatering your plant!

Indoors, Staghorn Ferns Need Fertilizer

Staghorn Ferns are hearty plants whose older, browning leaves serve as mulch-like nutrient preservers as they break down on the plant. In their tropical environments, they are able to absorb nutrients from the moist rainforest air to help them thrive, but this is not possible in the home. For that reason, a natural fertilizer is a prudent choice to keep your Staghorn Fern healthy and happy.

Like with most houseplants, use fertilizer conservatively and only during the plant’s growing season. Staghorn Ferns enjoy monthly or bimonthly doses of diluted liquid fertilizer to prompt growth during the warm summer months. Some people report good results utilizing another ingredient you already may have in your compost pile -- banana peels! These potassium-rich resources can serve as a cheap and natural source of nutrients as they decay over time.

Understand your plant’s natural habitat

A common problem that leads some people to fail in Staghorn Fern care is underestimating the plant’s light requirements. Most ferns grow in the ground level of the forest, and it’s these darker, moist environments that we usually think of when we buy ferns. But the Staghorn Fern prefers significantly more light than other plants in the Polypodiaceae family, so make sure you have an indirectly sunny spot for this unique fern.

While relatively unfussy plants, Staghorn Ferns can also be susceptible to common pests, such as spider mites and scale. To treat this, simply do so as you would any other houseplant, such as with neem oil or another natural pest deterrent. Avoid overwatering your plant to proactively prevent pests from turning your houseplant into their home.

You Should Eventually Mount Your Staghorn Fern

Once your Staghorn Fern is mature, it will require mounting to continue its growth. Young Staghorn Ferns can thrive wonderfully in a ceramic or terracotta pot with a chunky soil mix, but after a year or so, it will do best in an arrangement that takes its fascinating epiphytic habits into account, such as mounted on a wooden board, piece of bark, or even in a kokedama (beautiful Japanese moss balls) arrangement. You can choose how to mount a Staghorn Fern based on your own style and preferences, but it’s easy to do with supplies you may likely already have around the house.

How to mount A staghorn fern

To mount your plant, remove your plant’s root ball from its pot, removing some of the excess soil, and wrap it securely into some sheet moss or other organic substrate. Using twine, fishing line, or a combination of each, affix the plant onto your board or chosen mounting material. Some people choose to use nails and wrap the string around the nail heads, or wrap the plant directly. Either way, once your Staghorn Fern is established and settled onto its board or another source of support, its roots secure the plant in place.

Staghorn Ferns are safe for children and pets

Worried about furry friends or small humans getting into your plants? Staghorn Ferns are nontoxic, making them a great houseplant option for homes with cats, dogs, or young kids.

Staghorn Ferns Propagate Easily

Staghorn Ferns generate offshoot “babies,” which can be propagated into an organic substrate like moss or coco coir and eventually grown into a gorgeous, large Staghorn Fern.

They’re Furry!

Ever wonder what makes the foliage so special on a Staghorn Fern? The velvet-like fronds of this plant actually have a purpose! The tiny, silvery hairs help protect them from insects and pests in the wild (and probably in your home, too!).

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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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Well-loved for their patterned leaves and many varieties, Aglaonemas (commonly referred to as “Chinese Evergreen” or “Silver Evergreen” plants) are popular houseplants. They are easy plants to care for, but there are some considerations to make before bringing one into your home.

Read up on this gorgeous, easy-care plant and see if it’s the right match for you!

What’s an aglaonema?

‘Aglaonema’ is a genus within the araceae, or arum, family. Closely related to well-known houseplants like the philodendron and monstera, aglaonemas are popular choices for homes and office spaces alike because of their vibrant foliage and ease of care.

Their diversity of color and tendency to grow steadily make collecting and caring for aglaonemas fun, and rewarding. There are many species and cultivars of aglaonemas to choose from, and most are beginner-friendly plants. These hearty plants are an excellent addition to any houseplant collection, or a great starting plant to develop your green thumb.

Aglaonemas don’t need a lot of light

One reason why aglaonemas are such popular plants for the home and office is their ability to survive in relatively low light. In their native environment, aglaonemas love the shady tropics, so keep that in mind when you’re deciding where your new aglaonema plant should live.

Aglaonemas are also prone to sunburn, so avoid direct, bright light, such as a southern-facing window exposure (in the northern hemisphere). Too much or too little light can result in decreased color vibrancy on your plant’s leaves. Aglaonemas that live indoors also benefit from light adjustment throughout the year; during the shorter winter days, you may find them to prefer a space closer to a window or light source, while in the summer months they can live closer to a room’s interior.

The optimal environment for an aglaonema plant is bright, indirect light with moderate to high humidity when possible.

How to water Aglaonemas

Aglaonemas prefer to dry out completely before watering. Depending on how much light your plant is getting, you’ll find yourself watering your plant every week or so.

It’s important to pot your aglaonema in a well-draining potting medium so it can drain easily and avoid getting soggy. For example, you can add perlite or orchid bark to make for a chunkier soil.

As always, make sure your aglaonema is in a pot with a drainage hole to avoid root rot. You can either pot up your aglaonema plant directly in a ceramic or terracotta pot with adequate drainage, or utilize a decorative pot with your plant potted in a plastic nursery pot.

Lastly, remember that aglaonemas are native to tropical and subtropical environments, so providing some additional humidity, such as with a humidity dome or by grouping plants together, can help your aglaonema thrive.

Should you fertilize your aglaonema?

These hearty plants can live for a long time with little or no fertilizing. That said, a liquid fertilizer works well during the growing season, and your plant will thrive with the extra nutrients! In good conditions, these gorgeous plants can grow several feet high, but aren’t extremely fast growers like many other popular aroids.

To help spur growth, you can also repot your aglaonema plant into a bigger pot with fresh soil when it starts to get rootbound or grow out of its current pot. Most aglaonemas living indoors can be repotted every year or so.

Because of aglaonemas’ tendency to thrive on neglect, aglaonema care is very straightforward and a great option for beginners to foray into houseplants.

Common problems with the Aglaonema variety

Aglaonema are resilient plants, but even the heartiest of plants can have problems.

Common problems with aglaonema include pests, such as scale, aphids, or mealybugs. To address pest issues, utilize your go-to pest management product, such as neem oil or castile soap.

Yellowing or dropping leaves on aglaonema plants is usually because of under or overwatering the plant. Large, brown splotches on leaves also show up if a plant is experiencing root rot or soggy soil.

Aglaonemas are resilient plants like their aroid cousins, but allow your aglaonema an adjustment period when you first bring it home. If you’re experiencing problems with a new aglaonema, such as yellow or dropped leaves, wait it out and let it acclimate, or try adjusting its lighting or watering schedule.

The many Aglaonema varieties

With 24 aglaonema species and hundreds of cultivars, aglaonema plants offer plenty of diversity in leaf shape, color patterns, and styles for plant lovers to choose from. Colors and patterns range from shades of bright green stripes to pink speckles to red undersides, so aglaonema plants fit beautifully into any style of home or office space.

The Aglaonema ‘Commutatum,’ or ‘Silver Bay’ Evergreen, is one of the most popular and loved varieties of aglaonema. With silvery leaves and variegated green patterns, this stunning variety is a fast grower that can bring color into any corner.

Another common example of aglaonema is the Aglaonema Creta, recognized for its attractive rose-colored veining and borders on its leaves. For people who want a low-maintenance plan that can provide a pop of color in their home, aglaonemas like the Creta are the perfect choice.

Aglaonemas Can be toxic to pets

Some species of aglaonema contain insoluble calcium oxalates, which is toxic to pets. To be safe, it’s best to keep your aglaonema plant away from pets and children. There are plenty of beautiful pet-friendly plants if you prefer to go the safest route!

They can have flowers!

Aglaonemas’ rare spathe flowers are reminiscent of a Calla lily bloom. That’s because these plants are closely related.Some Calla lilies even have spotted green leaves that look similar to the foliage of some types of aglaonema.

It’s easy to propagate Aglaonemas

Lastly, aglaonema are easy plants to propagate in water or even directly in soil. Much like a common pothos or monstera, roots grow from the nodes where leaves meet the stem. After a few weeks of rooting in water, your aglaonema plant cutting will be ready to be potted up to grow into a new plant. Small plants grown from aglaonema cuttings also make excellent gifts for people with and without houseplant experience.

Discover the Silver Evergreen Aglaonema

A unique, easy care plant to add an attractive lushness to any space.

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The sculptural Snake Plant is one of our most popular plants for dimmer spaces. Photo by @saltier

Looking to brighten that dark room in your home?You’ve come to the right place! We work with light-challenged individuals all the time to bring the darkest rooms and corners of their home or office to life. Because let’s be real: as much as we’d love to have big, bright spaces in every area of our home, the reality is that many of us are light-challenged in one way or another! Maybe your new home doesn’t have as many windows as your last, or your trendy office is essentially a concrete cube. Windowless bathroom? Dim hallway? We’ve all been there before.

But low-light rooms can be just as beautiful as their brighter counterparts, if you know how to style them of course! Read our tips on how to either embrace or overcome a room with little to no natural light.

How to brighten your space

Even if you don’t have much natural light to work with you can still create a space that feels light and airy. Here are a few tips and tricks to make your space feel brighter:

• Layer whites - white reflects light, making a room feel both lighter and more spacious. Try painting your walls warm shades of white, or the ceiling a bright matte white. Look for lighter pieces of furniture or accents, layering shades of white and beige.

• Use mirrors strategically - it’s no secret that mirrors also reflect light. Create a bit more of it with a beautiful mirror you love, placed just so that it reflects any light coming in.

• Utilize layered lighting - a single overhead light is not going to cut it for a low-light space. Try creating layered, diffused lighting with various heights and shapes of lamps. And while we’re on the topic, use light lampshades with translucent material (i.e. linen) so that light is gently defused versus blocked.

• Streamline the furniture - go for minimal pieces and avoid ornate or chunky furniture. Select pieces that allow light to pass through or under them, like ghost chairs or sofas with a bit of space below them.

Embracing the Darkness

Sometimes the best thing you can do in a dim room is embrace its moodiness:

• Use bold colors and patterns - deeply rich and dark hues (and wallpapers!) can be beautiful in already-dark spaces.

• Invest in statement lighting - instead of using layered lighting having one or two statement lighting fixtures will create shadows. Shadows can be alluring when styled just right. 

• Be a maximalist - in a dimly lit space it can be harder for pieces to stand out. Use bold accent items like brass mirrors or lush velvet fabrics that will stand out from their surroundings. 

Tips for Using Plants in Low-Light Spaces

Indoor plants do wonders for any space, but maybe even more so for the darker areas of our home. Here are a few of our plant stylists’ tips on decorating low-light areas with houseplants:

• Find plants that won’t miss the light - Contrary to what you might think, many plants can do just fine in a low-light setting! Do keep in mind that you will water them very infrequently, and consider using a artificial light source for truly pitch-dark spaces.

• Go for brighter foliage - plants with bright green or lighter hues (think the Snake Plant or Little Hope) will pop in darker spaces. Alternatively, go for deeper greens if you’re embracing the moodiness! Plants with dark green foliage like the Zanzibar Gem or Cast Iron will give a more jungle feel.

• Invest in statement greenery - when it comes to bringing a dim or dull space to life, a little bit goes a long way with a large floor plant. Invest in just a few plants, at least one that’s large and draws the eye, versus cluttering the spaces with multiple small plants.

The Best Low Light Indoor Plants 

Ready to improve your space? Here are some of the best low-light houseplants that can survive and even thrive with minimal natural or artificial light:

• Zanzibar Gem - the emerald-green wands of the ZZ Gem as it’s commonly called are nearly indestructible nature. It can withstand low light and neglectful watering habits. 

• Snake Plant - this large succulent can adapt to just about any environment and also requires little to no maintenance.

• Parlor Palm - is a hardy plant that infuses a tropical atmosphere into its surroundings. 

• Cast Iron - the name says it all: this plant is indestructible and does well in dark, humid, and drafty spaces.

Check out our full collection of low light plants, and give your space the love and attention it deserves!

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The sculptural Fiddle Leaf Fig Bush is the perfect plant for small living rooms.

Decorating a small living room can be a real challenge. From tight corners to limited lay-out options, every inch counts when it comes to small spaces. And unfortunately for many a city-dweller, more often than not we are dealing with less space than we’d hope for!

Luckily there are loads of resources to navigate decorating a small living room (thanks, Pinterest!), and just because you have limited space does not mean you can’t enjoy the beauty and benefits of indoor plants! Below are our plant stylist’s favorite picks for plants that work well for small living rooms, plus extra tips for making the most of them.

Go for height

And avoid bushiness, especially if you are looking at floor plants. If all goes well (and we hope it does!), your indoor plants will grow. Make sure you are prepared for that by opting for plants that remain relatively contained to the width of their pots — both you and your plant will appreciate the extra space.

Pro tip: The Snake Plant is one of the best indoor plants for tight spaces with its narrow, structural shape. And don’t be fooled by the word “bush” in its name — the Fiddle Leaf Fig Bush is also a great indoor plant that maintains its shape over time thanks to the support of discrete bamboo stakes that keep the plant centered and erect.

Grouping plants is a great way to decorate small living rooms with greenery, and plants like the Monstera Deliciosa and Lady Palm make a the perfect pair.

Create Groupings

Want a touch of jungle but afraid you don’t have the space? Much like you would designate a corner to a chair or other piece of furniture, create a small corner for a grouping of plants. This can have a big impact without making your space feel cluttered or claustrophobic. Start with something on the taller side, and then layer around it with smaller plants of differing foliage and shades of green. Use plant stands to elevate, always work in odd numbers (trust us — it works!), and tastefully create the perfect plant grouping.

Pro Tip: Just three plants is enough to make a simple yet eye-catching plant grouping. One of our favorite combinations is a Fiddle Leaf Fig, a Snake Plant, and a Jade Pothos — the perfect combination of varying colors and textures!

Make use of trailing foliage

If you’re decorating a small living room, odds are you’ve scoped out different shelving solutions. Make space on your shelves for a trailing plant like the Cascading Pothos — this plant grows very quickly and, if desired, will green up an entire shelving unit over time! You can place the growing vines around different areas of the shelf, or simply let it drape down from the shelf or a hanging planter.

Pro Tip: Want to decorate a wall with greenery? Use pins to prop up tendrils of a trailing plant against the wall.

The Fiddle Leaf Fig makes for the ultimate statement plant.

Embrace the statement plant

Sometimes all it takes is one piece of furniture to really transform a space, and in this case, we’re talking about a potted plant. One of the biggest challenges of decorating a small living room is the fine line between cozy and cluttered, and one way to avoid this is by investing in fewer but bigger pieces. Just one large statement plant can truly pull a room together, and also give off the illusion the space is bigger, too.

Pro Tip: If you have the light (they need a lot!), consider a tall, structural beauty like the Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree. For dimmer spaces, the Dragon Tree is a true head-turner that also functions as a wonderful air-purifier.

How are you decorating your small living room with plants? Let us know in the comments, or tag us on Instagram to show off your space!

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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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