Favourite Houseplants

 

Let’s say someone told me I could have only 5 houseplants, I would struggle as I love so many.  If someone said genus, that’s easy – maranta, philodendron, begonia, peperomia and ficus. But which individual house plant, that is so difficult!  I think I would have to decide based on which plant I would really resent giving up.  It would have to be the plant that makes my heart sing whenever I catch a glimpse of it. Here’s the final five I decided on.

First and foremost is the Maranta leuoconeura red, (prayer plant). 

Maranta leuoconeura red

 

This plant is almost indestructible, I even once threw it on the compost heap thinking it had died. But discovered a few months later putting out new shoots!  Cuttings are so easy to take, and it has become my go to plant for gifting as even the “I kill all plants” brigade succeed with this baby. It fascinates everyone as it raises it leaves in the evening as if in prayer and it has fascinating markings.

In second place, Philodendron Brazil

Philodrendron Brazil

 

This beauty is like a ray of sunshine with its lime splashes. It is a vigorous grower and keeps its lush habit on top even when trailing.

 

Third choice are the begonia rexes.  They are so showy and regal. The colours get me every time.

 

Begonia rex

In fourth place, it would have to be the fiddle leaf fig.  It maybe a prima donna, but once it has found its sweet spot it will reward you with lush giant leaves.

 

Ficus lyrata (Fiddleleaf Fig)

Last not not least is my hoya carnosa

 

Hoya carnosa

This is my oldest plant, been with me for at least 15 years, longer I think. It has gone through lean times when it was sadly neglects but always springs back with clusters of highly scented flowers, so that I forgive it dripping sticky nectar over my desk and the mealy bugs it attracts.

 

 

What are your favourite houseplants?