Tropical houseplants are wildly popular, and no wonder. They bring atmosphere, color and a touch of the jungle to your home. But what exactly is a tropical houseplant? And what should you pay attention to if you are just starting out? In this blog I will explain it to you step by step.
What is a tropical houseplant?
A tropical houseplant originally comes from warm, humid areas such as the Amazon, Southeast Asia or parts of Africa. In nature, these plants often grow under the canopy of trees, where they enjoy filtered light, constant warmth and plenty of humidity.
The nice thing is: the indoor climate at home is surprisingly similar to this. As a result, many tropical species also do very well as houseplants.
Famous tropical houseplants
There are many tropical plants, but a number of genera have been public favorites for years. And you will also find them on our website. Think about:
Philodendron
A versatile genus with hundreds of species, from climbers to shrubs. Well known are the Philodendron scandens, melanochrysum and the striking Pink Princess.
Anthurium
You may know the flowering species, but also leafy species such as Anthurium clarinervium or warocqueanum are super popular.
Monstera
Especially Monstera deliciosa, with its distinctive hole leaves, is a true classic.
Alocasia
Also called elephant ear, with large, striking leaves. Popular species are Alocasia zebrina or cuprea.
Ficus
A sturdy, easy plant that fits into many interiors. Well-known species are Ficus elastica and Ficus lyrata.
What should you look out for?
Tropical plants often have the same basic needs. If you take these into account, you will enjoy them for years.
Light
Most tropical plants like lots of light, but not bright sun. So put them in a place with bright, indirect light. An east-facing window or with a curtain in front of it is ideal.
Water
Always allow the top layer of potting soil to dry out before watering again. Most tropical plants like moist soil, but do not like standing with their roots in water.
Humidity
In tropical rainforests it is humid. It is usually less so at home, especially in winter. You can help your plant by spraying regularly with lukewarm water, or using a humidifier.
Potting soil and pot
Use an airy potting soil mix and make sure you have a pot with drainage holes. This will prevent water from accumulating and roots from rotting.
Easy start? Choose one of these
Want to get started easily? Then these tropical plants are highly recommended:
Philodendron scandens
Strong, easy to care for and fast growing.
Monstera deliciosa
Popular, forgiving and grows smoothly.
Ficus elastica
Stylish, robust and undemanding.
With tropical houseplants you not only bring something beautiful into your home, but also a piece of nature. They make your interior more lively and sometimes even make for cleaner air. Just start with one species, get to know it well, and who knows, maybe your home will soon grow into a real urban jungle.
Are you curious which tropical species are available now? Then take a look at our current offer!