Big-Leaf Houseplants that Make a Statement

Houseplants are admittedly not everyone’s cup of tea, but you’ll be surprised at the difference just a few houseplants can make. Some feature big, splashy leaves – like the flamboyant bird of paradise – while others, such as the Mayan Mask Alocasia, are darkly defined, with an almost supernatural persuasion. 

Those who have amassed a sizable collection may find their homes becoming more and more like a jungle – and wouldn’t have it any other way. The good news is that many of these houseplants remain green year-round, chasing away the midwinter blues. 

Here is a list of big-leaf houseplants that make a bold statement in your home. 

 

1. Birds of Paradise           

With theatrical flowers that resemble a bird in flight, the bird of paradise is a tropical plant that conjures up images of pristine beaches, untouched by the encroachment of mankind. Considered relatively easy to care for, it can be left alone in a place that receives full light, requiring little interference. For ease of care, be sure to check out the EZ self-watering planter. 

2. Mayan Mask Alocasia 

You don’t have to be a diabolist to own this striking plant, featuring thickly veined leaves with the trappings of antiquity. While African mask plants are not the easiest to cultivate indoors, many gardeners agree that they rank among the best plants in their collection. Make sure to place in a sunny spot – without adequate light, the leaves can droop. This plant thrives in bright, indirect light and benefits from misting. 

3. Ruffled Fan Palm 

Elegance has lasting staying power, a sentiment that is applied to the rarely seen ruffled fan palm, prized for its glossy, pleated fronds. Many houseplants may lean towards a slightly tropical appearance, but this plant truly lives it, originating from the exotic, humid rainforests of Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands. As it can be difficult to acquire one, don’t miss your chance here. 

4. Arabica Coffee Plant  

It may surprise you to know that coffee is derived from ‘coffee cherries’ – bright red fruits that conceal the coffee beans within, typically produced when the plant is 3 – 4 years old. With the Arabica coffee plant, homeowners have the chance to experiment making their own coffee. While it might not taste like gourmet flavor (and may taste questionable), the experience is still fun to explore. Coffee plants prefer high humidity and bright, indirect light. 

5.  Variegated Cast-Iron Plant 

True to its name, the cast-iron plant, like the similar-looking snake plant, behaves as if it were cast in metal, while other flowers shatter like glass. Nearly impossible to kill, the variegated variety is popular, featuring creamy stripes along its length. It thrives in low light conditions and fends off a slew of pests with ease. 

6. Dwarf Cavendish Banana Tree

If the thought of adopting a pet is too much trouble, then set your sights on the dwarf cavendish banana tree instead. The leaves begin as a mottled purple before maturing into a glossy green. Most gardeners grow it for its sprawling leaves, as fruit is rare indoors. Plant it in acidic, loamy, well-drained soil, and fertilize regularly every two months.

7. Philodendron Xanadu

With snaking limbs and deeply lobed leaves, Xanadu is a fabulous, bold plant fit for a sorcerer seeking the high life. It’s also perfect for brightening dreary days when there’s no birdsong. Well adapted to the shade of tall trees, it tolerates shade, though it can survive direct light. Bonsai forms of the Xanadu cultivar will develop a scaly trunk – quite a rare find. A more common find, though still in high demand, is the variegated version. 

8. Dumb Cane  

The dumb cane gets its name from the toxins in its sap, which can render one’s mouth numb, resulting in painful swelling (this is one plant you’ll want to prevent your pets from munching on). Indeed, it’s attractive but somewhat vacuous, plodding along one day at a time. Despite its less-than-appealing common name, the dumb cane can withstand neglect and low light. 

9. Monstera  

Every metaphysical shop has one, and most homeowners covet one, and for good reason. The Monstera’s distinct fenestrations are especially striking in its variegated iteration. Sadly, bubblegum pink Monsteras don’t exist, despite what the internet may have led you to believe. Mist it regularly and keep it well-drained – waterlogged roots can lead to root rot, a common killer. 

10. Heart of Jesus (Caladium)  

If you’re religiously obsessed with plants with naturally hot pink leaves, this is one plant to keep in your collection. Caladiums need bright, indirect light, regular watering, and feeding during the growing season. One pest to watch out for is spider mites, which seem to spawn out of mid-air and spread like the plague. Treat infestations promptly with an organic insecticide. 

11. Snake Plant  

It’s time to cast your aspersions aside when it comes to the snake plant. Though it’s not the most eye-catching, its minimal, spear-like design is not just something that dull people celebrate – its strength lies in its steadfast, unkillable nature. Place strategically in the shady corners of your house to add a bit of greenery. 

12. Money Plant   

Often thought of as a compact plant that can be placed on your windowsill, the money plant can reach incredible heights, with leaves the size of your palm. It prefers bright, indirect light and benefits from being rotated occasionally to encourage even growth. As the plant matures, the leaves will droop and turn slightly yellow, which is part of the aging process.