At Home With Angela Tafoya: Taking Style To The Max In A Stunning San Francisco Craftsman
Angela Tafoya, Editorial Director of Lonny Mag and self-professed maximalist in her gorgeous San Francisco Craftsman home.

Angela Tafoya, Editorial Director of Lonny Mag and self-professed maximalist in her gorgeous San Francisco Craftsman home.

On a bustling block in San Francisco’s Inner Sunset District, a row of enchanting Craftsman homes quietly sit and observe the neighborhood’s daily activity: a Muni bus rumbles past, pedestrians wait at a crosswalk, and the Catholic school down the street just sounded its recess bells.

These Craftsman homes have been here for over a century, built just after the 1906 fires and seemingly unchanged since. But what lies behind their impressive facades tells another story, and we were lucky enough to take a peek for ourselves inside the beautiful family home of Angela Tafoya, Editorial Director of Lonny Mag, the go-to online publication for inspiration on accessible home design.

Join us as we tour a home which proves that the luxury of maximalism and the nuanced impact of minimalist style can more than coexist: these decor trends are actually the perfect pairing!

A glossy Rubber Tree is the perfect greeting on this bright landing.

Originally hailing from New Mexico, Angela has called the Bay Area home for over 15 years. And not long ago, she and her husband took on the opportunity of a lifetime: the exciting (albeit daunting) task of renovating their family’s 7th Avenue craftsman, with the goal of creating a space that honors original details while also feeling modern and fresh. The result is a unique blend of classic yet contemporary, luxe yet minimal: the ideal canvas for exploring the latest trends.

After all, somebody has to do it, right?

A lush Pink Rubber Plant is the perfect addition to highlight the texture and creamy tonality of whitewashed brick.

Angela has always found herself inherently drawn to lifestyle inspiration and considered interiors, and for her, the fast pace of digital media couldn’t be a better fit. Like a snapshot taken directly out of the latest issue of Lonny Mag, her living space is truly a dream. Unique details abound, with varying textiles and cushions juxtaposed by glossy coffee table literature and standout pieces of original art.


Thriving plants, of course, are a trend that Angela is more than happy to welcome into her home. With over 30 different varieties adorning the built-in bay window typical in San Francisco homes, she credits her plant-friendly husband for the lushness that completes their spacious layout.

“My husband is the green thumb around here. He’s also a minimalist, but not necessarily when it comes to plants!”

Following the latest trends can have its drawbacks, though, and Angela prizes individuality. She tells us that she’s become more intentional about what she brings into her home, choosing pieces that, while on-trend, will also stand the test of time. And when restlessness hits, switching up the paint colors is always a good solution. As she says, “We’ve been in this home for three years, and I’ve painted the reading nook three times.”

Suffice it to say, we’re confident that following her whims will always serve Angela well: by intuiting her passions and cultivating a sense of play, she’s sure to maintain a luscious space with lively, original style wherever she goes.

Angela’s Plant Picks: The Desert Cactus, Rubber Tree, and Pink Rubber Plant are living, glowing standouts. Beautifully variegated, they pack a punch with height, rich color and sculptural silhouettes.

The Fabulous World Of Philodendrons
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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

philodendron varieties

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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What You Need To Know Before You Buy An Aglaonema
aglaonema
aglaonema care

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.

Dear Plant Stylist: "Can you help me choose a plant for my child's bedroom?"
Cast Iron Plant in Nouvelle White, Photo by Léon & George

The Cast Iron Plant is an excellent, ultra-hardy choice for a child’s bedroom or playroom.

In our Dear Plant Stylist series, we share styling and lighting inquiries received by our in-house stylists with our audience. So read on-- you just might find that your plant styling questions are answered below! 

Dear Plant Stylist, 

We are finally getting around to decorating our kid’s room. He’s a super creative kid that loves all things visual and we want to brighten up his space with child- safe (preferably air-purifying) plants. Obviously, nothing too easy to kill or too delicate/breakable. Advice?

Best,

C.R. 

Hi C., 

This sounds like a fun project! Kids epitomize creativity and because there are well-known links between the presence of living greenery and boosted mood, creativity and tranquility, we think that emphasizing greenery in kids’ rooms is a great idea.

Let’s focus on child-safe plants that have a fairly vertical silhouette, to minimize the chance of mishaps or foliage breakage. The presence of any plant will help to freshen the space and there are certainly no plants that are bad for air quality— though some are more widely regarded for their air-purifying properties than others, and you can find a comprehensive collection of the most highly-rated air purifying plants on our website

Good options for large plants include the large Monstera Deliciosa and the Cast Iron Plant. Monsteras are renowned for their fun, sculptural foliage. They’re also incredibly easy to care for and flexible when it comes to light! Cast Iron Plants are—you guessed it— virtually indestructible; a good option should you have a fledgling experimental botanist on your hands. Another great benefit of the Cast Iron Plant is that it thrives in shade, so if this room will usually have the curtains closed, the Cast Iron Plant will be perfectly content. 

Moving along to accent plants: in keeping with the fantastical aesthetic of children’s books and the desire for air-purifying prowess, the Parlor Palm is a great choice. There’s so much to love about these petite dynamos: their fun, feathery foliage and non-toxic nature are complemented by their super-relaxed light requirements. (Low light? No worries! They’re fine with anything from medium indirect to low, artificial light.)

Cap off your new biome with a decidedly Seussian Pilea Peperomioides. It just doesn’t get more fun than the Pilea: like a solar-system mobile, its lily-pad shaped leaves orbit around its base of stems. Keep in mind, though, that Pileas are sensitive to high temperatures. So if you’re cranking the heater, you’ll want to forego this option and perhaps opt for a Calathea Rattlesnake. Who wouldn’t love that colorful, Jurassic foliage!

Note: Looking for plants for a baby’s room? Read our full post on the best plants for a nursery, which only features non-toxic plants that are safer with younger children who may be inclined to take a bite out of their leafy friends! It is important to note that while none of the plants mentioned in this post are dangerous, some are considered mildly toxic if consumed.


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Top 10 Plants for the Kitchen
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Looking for the perfect kitchen plant? Every room in your home deserves at least a bit of greenery, and the kitchen is no exception! Indoor plants not only clean our air, but they boost our mood and effortlessly beautify any space they adorn. You also don’t need to be an expert to keep them alive. Most common houseplants are pretty simple to care for, and just require a bit of light, water, and love to thrive! All the same, we’ve included a handful of low light plants that work well for kitchens with little to no natural light.

So whether your kitchen is big, small, bright, or dark, the perfect plant is out there to bring a little life into such an essential part of your home. Here are a few of our picks for the best plants for your kitchen!

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Philodendron Brasil

With bright green leaves resembling the Brazilian flag, the Philodendron Brasil is a seemingly delicate trailing plant that brings a bit of beauty to any counter or shelf it adorns. However, though this plant may look like a delicate creature, the Philodendron Brasil is actually a very easy care plant that can withstand low light areas and frequent neglect!

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Kitchen plants, hanging plants, and plants for a kitchen window

Little Hope

The Little Hope is a small version of the Hope Philopdendron, a plant that, in the wild, can grow enormous leaves over five feet tall! The smaller version of this plant is easy to care for and adds an instant splash of bright greenery to any kitchen counter or shelf.

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Plants for the kitchen, from low light to bright light and everything in between.

Cascading Pothos

The Cascading Pothos is another trailing plant that is not only fast-growing but incredibly easy to care for. True to its name, this is the best plant for hanging planters in the kitchen or a shelf or counter, and works well in both bright light and low light kitchens.

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The best plants for the kitchen

Monstera Deliciosa

For big kitchens, look for plants that make a statement! Some of our favorite large plants for kitchens include the stylish Monstera Deliciosa (pictured), which adds an instant touch of lushness to any space, or the delightful Dracaena Compacta, a tall and narrow plant that is perfect for tighter corners.

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Our recommendations for kitchen plants that bring the outdoors in

Parlor palm

An adorable addition to any kitchen countertop, the Parlor Palm thrives with plenty of humidity and medium to bright indirect light.

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10 of the best kitchen plants, for all types of kitchens!

Staghorn Fern

An adorable plant from the fern family, the Staghorn Fern is a unique piece of greenery perfect for kitchen decor. Its sage-green leaves are velvet-soft and complement neutral color palettes in the kitchen.

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Calathea Rattlesnake

Looking to add a bit more color to your kitchen? With beautifully patterned green and purple leaves, the Calathea Rattlesnake is a gorgeous indoor plant that works well for medium to bright kitchens and plenty of humidity.

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10 of the best kitchen plants, for all types of kitchens!

Pilea Peperomiodes

The Pilea Peperomiodes, also known as the Chinese Money Plant, is an adorable plant perfect for bright kitchens and small spaces. Simple to care for, the Pilea brings a bit of bright, quirky greenery to any space, and is an incredibly easy plant to propagate as well!

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kitchen plants

Pink rubber plant

Also known as the Ruby Ficus, the unique ruby-toned Pink Rubber Plant adds a splash of color to any bright kitchen that needs it! Pair it with plenty of bright indirect light and watch this fast grower unfurl while your morning coffee brews.

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Kitchen herbs

Herbs are an obvious choice for the kitchen: you can use them while cooking, they act as a natural mosquito repellant, and of course, they smell and look beautiful! However, keep in mind that most herbs require at least six to eight hours a day of sunlight. If you have a bright kitchen window sill or similar, try keeping a few small pots of your favorite herbs, but if not, you’re better off growing them outside or on a balcony!

 

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Real Plants, Real People: Christine & Nick
Real Plants, Real People: Christine and Nick

Two design-savvy Angelenos, Christine and Nick, give us a peek into their bright and beautiful home on LA’s breezy westside.

Teachers, partners, and plant parents: angelenos Christine and Nick share about what they and their plants did this summer, and the best part about starting a new school year.

Summer’s coming to a close and school’s back in session: there’s no better time than the present to find our rhythm, settle into routine and set new goals.

For inspiration, we talked to Christine and Nick, two Los Angeles based educators, about how they kick off the new school year and how their plants serve a valuable role in settling back into routine.

From Roger the Rubber Tree to an enormous Zanzibar Gem named Nigel (“He just does what he wants, when he wants to!”) the thriving plants at Christine and Nick’s were truly a treat to meet, and an intrinsic part of this fun and energetic modern family.

HOW DID YOU SPEND YOUR SUMMER BREAK?

This summer we had a chance to do some planning for our wedding - we picked a venue and I found my wedding dress with the help of some friends! We also spent time with family, read a lot of great books, played soccer, and watched Roger (our Rubber Tree) grow a ton of new leaves.

Extra Large Rubber Tree

Roger the Rubber Tree

WHEN YOU WENT ON TRIPS, DID YOUR PLANTS MISS YOU?

We didn’t leave the plants alone too much this summer, but when we did, Nick made sure they were fully watered before we left. We also moved a few plants around so they could get the appropriate light while we were away.

WHAT’S THE BEST PART ABOUT GOING BACK TO SCHOOL AND THE START OF A NEW YEAR?

Seeing and catching up with all the students from previous years and meeting our new students!

HOW DO PLANTS CONTRIBUTE TO YOUR HOME?

Our plants bring us a lot of joy. We talk about them a lot and celebrate their growth! This whole experience has brought us a lot of joy. And the ritual of pruning the Dracaena and watering, and just paying attention to the things around us in our space. It’s been a nice routine and has brought life to our home, especially during this past year as we spent more time indoors.

Real Plants, Real People: Christine and Nick

CAN YOU SHARE A SNAPSHOT OF YOUR PLANT CARE ROUTINE?

Nick really handles most of the plant care (thank you, Nick! :) ). We have water meters from Leon and George in most of our plants, so Nick waters our indoor plants whenever the water meter is white and he waters our outside Leon and George trees 1-2 times per week. We also try to fertilize the outdoor trees once a month. Every once in awhile I wipe the leaves on Roger the Rubber Tree and Nigel, our Zanzibar, with warm water and dish soap. After talking with the Plant Doctors at Leon and George we're considering repotting a few of our plants to give them some more room to grow!

What are your plant care secrets?

We talk to them a lot! We use our hands to feel how they’re doing, we feel their soil, rotate regularly and make adjustments to make sure they’re getting what they need. 

*And two key hot pro tips*: we read the weekly Leon and George newsletter every Sunday morning. As soon as it comes in, we immediately go do the thing it says to do! It’s been a helpful reminder to check on them and expand our care techniques.

Secondly, any time we’re panicked, or are trying to figure something out, we either Google it, or check in with the Plant Doctors at Leon and George. These methods keep our anxiety down and overtime we’ve learned just how resilient plants are!

Floor to ceiling sliding doors gives their home a spacious indoor/outdoor opening, a must for enjoying Southern California’s beautiful weather! Their plant collection includes a Rubber Plant, Dracaena Compacta, Meyer Lemon Tree and Olive Tree.

Floor to ceiling sliding doors gives their home a spacious indoor/outdoor opening, a must for enjoying Southern California’s beautiful weather! Their plant collection includes a Rubber Plant, Dracaena Compacta, Meyer Lemon Tree and Olive Tree.

Photos by Jess Issac


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How To Brighten A Dark Room
The sculptural Snake Plant is one of our most popular plants for dimmer spaces. Photo by @saltier

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. 

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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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How To Decorate A Small Living Room With Plants
The sculptural Fiddle Leaf Fig Bush is the perfect plant for small living rooms.

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.

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 Perfect Plant For Every Zodiac Sign
The benefits of the Snake Plant are many, making it the perfect plant for indoors and bedrooms.

Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned astrology buff, you likely know that your zodiac sign can offer valuable insight into your many strengths, your disposition overall, and the things that are important to you. As a plant owner, insights like these are especially useful. We all want our plants to thrive, and choosing the right plant variety for our unique circumstances is the first (and most important!) step. 

If you’re purchasing a new plant friend from Leon & George, you probably already know that bringing a new, living plant into your home is a special and exciting time, as well as a big decision. So find your sign below and read up on our galaxy of guidance. You can feel confident in your choice, because we’ve curated the perfect Leon & George plant for you! 

The Perfect Plant For You, According To Your Zodiac Sign

Zodiac plants: plants for capricorn

Capricorn

Braided Money Tree

Clear-eyed, straight-shooting Capricorn! You’re a grounded and pragmatic soul. You’re not afraid of responsibility, and you don’t leave things half-finished. This makes you a deeply responsible plant owner, and we’d trust you with any Leon & George variety! But you also deserve a break from all your hard work, which is why, with its marriage of intricate beauty and easy-care simplicity, we think the Braided Money Tree is the plant for you. 

Zodiac plants: plants for aquarius

Aquarius

Zanzibar Gem

Aquarians, you’re like the ocean: sometimes calm, and sometimes crashing in tsunamis of creative energy, but never still. And while you love to get lost staring out the window, Aquarians also don’t like to be bored, so you’re often on the go. That’s why an easy-care plant that’ll do fine when you float off on an impromptu road trip is the perfect choice for you. And with their super-lush foliage, the Zanzibar Gem reflects your dewy disposition. 

Zodiac plants: plants for pisces

Pisces

Calathea Medallion

Beloved Pisces, you’re a gentle and deeply creative soul that brings imagination and artfulness to all you do. You’re deeply attuned to all that’s around you, and any plant will be fortunate to call you friend. Pisces are often thought to be near-or-truly psychic, because of their intuitive connectedness to all living things. The Calathea Medallion, or Prayer Plant, is the perfect match for you: spiritual and beautiful, reacting with an otherworldly grace to the shifts in light from day to night.

Zodiac plants: plants for aries

Aires

Red Congo

Aries, you’re coming in hot! With your courage and drive, you’re a force of nature, ruled by the sun, with fire as your guiding element. The Red Congo is a perfect match for you- vibrant and bold, Red Congos respond to the brightness of the light they receive with deeply pigmented, red variegation on their beautiful leaves.

Zodiac plants: plants for Taurus

taurus

Snake Plant

There is so much to love about the strong and earthy Taurus. And Taurus, you may be a stable and practical soul, but you also have a deep love of sensory experience- so it’s only natural that a stunningly variegated and sculptural plant would be the right choice for you. Enter the Snake Plant: grounded in the earth, but reaching toward the sky, the Snake Plant is strong (read: virtually indestructible) but innately graceful. 

Zodiac plants: plants for gemini

gemini

Golden Petra

Like you, Gemini, the Golden Petra is expressive, charming and has an enchanting natural charisma. Happy to bask in the haze of indirect light, the Petra can also handle the spotlight of direct light once in a while- she’s adaptable, like you. And just like Geminis, Golden Petras are naturally sociable, appreciative of the microbiome and humidity produced by being placed among a group of plants with similar care preferences

cancer

Fiddle Leaf Fig

Cancer, you’ve been famed throughout the ages for your skill as a naturally supportive friend and an artistic spirit. Your emotional acuity can also mean that you experience a wide range of moods- not unlike the beautifully iconic diva, the Fiddle Leaf Fig! With your sensitive nature, you have just the disposition to pamper your Fiddle through any rough spots and appreciate the overall beauty of this sometimes tricky, but always worth it, showstopper of a plant.

Zodiac plants: plants for leo

leo

Bird of Paradise

How dull our garden would be without a Leo (or a Bird of Paradise) in the mix! And you’re so easy to care for, too. All you need is lots of light (and love, and admiration) to flourish and thrive. Truly birds of a feather, Leos and Birds of Paradise light up their environment and don’t quit. Vivacious! Eye-catching! It always feels good to stand next to a Leo or a Bird of Paradise’s fire.

virgo

Jade Pothos

The earthy Virgo has so many admirable qualities- you always take the high road, and your patience can seem infinite to your fire-sign friends! That’s why the Jade Pothos is a natural match for you. Gentle and beautiful, the Jade Pothos rewards patient plant owners with a cascade of jewel-tone leaves in its own time. (Often quickly-the Jade Pothos is a swift grower!)

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libra

Silver Evergreen

Peaceful Libra, your compassion nature and love of balance is a gift to all you meet- and it serves you well as a savvy home stylist, too! The Silver Evergreen is a seamless fit for you: with lushly full, variegated foliage and exceptional air-purifying effects, the Silver Evergreen promotes tranquility, luck (according to legend!) and lends a sophisticated grace to Libra homes. 

Zodiac plants: plants for scorpio

scorpio

Ruby Ficus

Scorpio, you’re the best friend a plant could ask for. Loyal, honest and brave, you’re a natural leader, and you don’t follow trends- you set them. And we think that every Ruby Ficus must sprout under the Scorpio sign, because they are hands-down your astrological doppelganger! Pick a Ruby Ficus for its boldly hued foliage, and keep it for its easy-care watering needs. And like you, Scorpio, Ruby Ficuses also have a penchant for self-growth. (These can grow up to eight feet tall!)

Zodiac plants: plants for sagittarius

sagittarius

Magenta Triostar

Sagittarius, you’re most well known for your deep sense of honesty and justice. But you’re also spontaneous, fun and dynamic, with an appreciation for life’s variety. The Magenta Triostar is a great fit for you: a true individual with a richly independent life. (As a member of the Prayer Plant family, the Magenta Triostar’s leaves close during the night, and open to salute the sun during the day. (A fitting friend for you, Sagittarius, as you’re a fire sign!) 


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Variegated Plants: Nature's Painted Beauties
The gorgeous variegated leaves of the N’Joy Pothos.

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 plants add a gorgeous splash of color their surroundings. Pictured clockwise from left to right: Magenta Triostar, Pink Rubber Tree, and Calathea Medallion.

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

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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variegated leaves

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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6 Tips & Tricks To Improve Your Watering Routine
watering plants

Watering an indoor potted plant seems obvious, right? You just take the water and pour it in – what more is there to know?

As it turns out— a lot! Watering plants is at once incredibly simple while also being a bit of an art. From the basics (don’t overwater!) to the tricks (ever tried bottom watering?), step up your watering routine with these simple tips and tricks.

1. Feel the soil before watering

The best way to know if a plant needs water is to check if the soil is dry. Gently stick your finger in the top part of the soil and check the humidity. If it’s still wet, it means it probably has enough water for now. If there’s some decorative moss over your soil, make sure to feel below it. Do note that generally plants in smaller pots will need to be watered more often simply because there’s not as much potting mix to keep the moisture in.

If you have a very large plant, you may consider a moisture meter to help you gauge when to water.

2. Water the soil evenly

Make sure to water all around the plant, not just in one area. The plant will develop more evenly and will be less stressed if it’s getting water through all its roots. Water around the edges of the pot since that's where the roots gather. This makes it easier for your plant to drink and get even saturation.

3. Use room temperature water

Don’t use water that is too hot or too cold. Room temperature water (about 68ºF) is optimum for nutrient absorption and doesn't give your plant the shock of being too hot or too cold. Plants like to be comfortable too!

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4. Adjust your watering to the season

Your plant’s water needs will vary based of whether it is their growing season or their dormancy stage. You’ll want more in the spring and summer when your plant is growing. Plants use less energy during the fall and winter because they are resting. There’s less light and part of their natural lifecycle results in them being slightly dormant at that time of the year. As the days become shorter, even in the fall, adjust your watering routine to make sure your plant is not getting too much. But no matter the season be careful that your plant is not sitting in front of an air vent where it is getting hot or cold drafts, this can dry out its soil and cause health issues.

5. Try bottom watering

Bottom watering is a method of watering where you let the plant’s bottom half soak in water (versus pouring it over the top). This allows the plant to drink as much as it likes from its roots, and leave whatever it doesn’t want behind. Try it out! Leave your plant soaking in a few inches of water for a couple hours up until one day and notice how the water magically begins to disappear! Read more on this technique here.

6. Avoid overwatering

Last but certainly not least, and probably the most important thing to keep in mind when watering your plants: don’t overwater! Plants that have more water in the soil than they can consume will develop root rot. This happens when roots can’t get the air they need because they’re surrounded by water for an extended period of time and start to decay. Avoid this by using lighter soils (really when we say soil, we mean potting mix), as well as pots with drainage holes, and simply watering your plant in moderation. Make sure that you are letting your plant dry out a bit between waterings and occasionally lift it from its decorative container to make sure it isn’t sitting in water.

Good luck, and remember that for most indoor plants it’s best to err on the side of under watering — it’s much easier to fix a thirsty plant than one that’s been drowning!


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Dear Plant Stylist: "How do I arrange plants in groups?"
arranging plants in groups

In our Dear Plant Stylist series, we share styling and lighting inquiries received by our in-house stylists with our audience. So read on-- you just might find that your plant styling questions are answered below! 

Dear Plant Stylist, 

I’ve heard that plants like to be arranged in groups, but I don’t know which look best together. Also, do they need to have the same care instructions?

Thanks,

V.F.


Dear V.,

You heard it right. Plants do benefit from being situated in groupings together. But your second question is very astute— it’s important that the plants you choose for your grouping have the same requirements for light. It’s helpful, as well, if they have the same requirements for watering, because that mitigates the chance of over or under watering one as you attend to its friend with different needs.

The Snake Plant and Golden Petra make an adorable couple at this workspace.

So why do plants benefit from being grouped together? Apart from looking great, one reason is because plants release moisture into the air around them. When grouped together, they create a mini micro-climate of boosted humidity, which almost all houseplants, especially tropical ones, love.

In terms of aesthetics, I don’t think you can really go wrong with plant pairing. Grouping plants is all about maximizing the beauty of the plants’ textures through contrasting and mirroring, and different foliage types and coloration look lovely together. So it’s best to approach this from the more pragmatic lens of plant care requirements, as that is the part that’s really key to a successful plant grouping. 

Low to Medium Light Plants

If you’re creating a grouping for an area that receives low to medium light, you have a wealth of options. Consider grouping Zanzibar Gems with Snake Plants. Both are exceptionally flexible in regard to light, and both like for their soil to dry out entirely before being watered. Parlor Palms are an ideal accent for these large plants, and prefer low light and to be watered only when dry. 

Medium to Bright Light Plants

The Lady Palm, Monstera Deliciosa, and Tineke Rubber Plant making a bright and enviable corner in this living room.

The Lady Palm, Monstera Deliciosa, and Tineke Rubber Plant making a bright and enviable corner in this living room.

This is the moment for Monsteras! One of the most iconic houseplants, with foliage that is immediately recognizable and inarguably fun, Monsteras love to be situated by friends. Monsteras enjoy medium to bright light, and like to dry out entirely between waterings, so they’re a perfect pair for the beloved Braided Money Tree and Rubber Plant. These gorgeous, glossy-leaved plants are renowned for their gleam and lush, jungle aesthetic. And you can choose your preferred coloration: the classic, emerald and burgundy Rubber Plant, the gently variegated Tineke Rubber Plant, or the rosy pastel Pink Rubber Plant. Pileas are also a wonderful option for a small accent plant, with their preference for bright light. They should also be watered only when their topsoil is dry. 

Pet Safe Groupings

If you need a jungle for your little jaguar or a curious dog friend, don’t fret! It’s totally doable. Consider pairing a Parlor Palm with a Braided Money Tree and a large and lovely Cast Iron Plant. Tailor the light of this grouping to the Cast Iron Plant. Parlor Palms prefer low light and Braided Money Trees are wonderfully adaptable, but Cast Irons require low light and must be kept from direct sun. All three plants can thrive in a shady spot. 

Pet Safe plant duo

Create an indoor jungle for yourself…and the one you couldn’t live without. Flora and fauna will live beautifully together with a set of two plants that are non-toxic, low-light adaptable, and bright in both color and style.

Arrange! 

Arranging plants in groups is incredibly fun. You can explore varied pot and wood stand colors, incorporate baskets or macrame, and create a wonderfully textured microbiome that plants crave. Remember that if any of your plants should experience pests, you’ll need to separate the affected plant from the grouping while you treat it, so that the pests don’t spread.

And that’s that— you can enjoy the practice of liberally misting your grouping, and all of our plants (with the exception the Fiddle Leaf Fig, which prefers special plant food) will benefit from the same gentle houseplant fertilizers. Enjoy the journey and send photos! We would love to see your creation. Now, get grouping!


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