Dark, Gothic Plants are the 2026 Trend: Try Those for an Indoor Garden

The advent of modern technology means that crop failures are mostly a thing of the past. However, the goth aesthetic, popularized by the Victorians, isn’t going anywhere – goth gardens are on the rise, hooking people with their melancholic, darkly irresistible beauty.  

Houseplants with smoky, inky hues are trending, a compromise for people who adore the goth aesthetic but don’t want a full-on goth-themed garden. Although goth plants are darky-hued, that doesn’t mean they prefer to dwell in dingy conditions. If your apartment is drenched in shadows, it is recommended that you purchase grow lights, which offer the optimal indoor growing environment. 

Here’s a list of dark and moody houseplants that embody Black Beauty by Lana del Rey. 

 

1. Raven ZZ Plant 

Houseplants have a reputation for being dull, but that changes when they gain rich, unusual shading on their foliage. Glossy, nearly black leaves on the black Raven ZZ conjure notions of punk rock protagonists with black eyeliner and nail polish, but none of the attitude. It’s extremely low-maintenance and able to handle missed waterings.   

2. Philodendron ‘Black Cardinal’

The deep hue of this philodendron makes it prized among collectors; as it matures, it deepens from shades of bronze to a rich chocolate. ‘Black Cardinal’ Philodendron requires bright, indirect light to maintain its coveted dark foliage. Philodendrons like loose, acidic potting soil that drains easily and is rich in organic matter. 

3. Mayan Mask Alocasia 

The dual coloring of the Mayan Mask alocasia appeals to those who want to inject a bit of greenery but don’t prefer the kitschy houseplants of the ‘70s. The leaves are dark green in color, with deep purple undersides – the thick ribs contribute to its robust appearance. Although alocasias are considered more difficult to grow, this variety is one of the hardier cultivars and is doable for beginners. It grows best in fertile, humusy, organically rich soil. 

4. Dark Opal Basil 

Although not technically a houseplant, basil and other herbs can be grown indoors with this line of indoor planters. Often, they’re easy to grow, as long as they receive plenty of sun. Dark Opal basil grabs attention with its inky purple leaves, offering a bold contrast to traditional green herbs. Basil can live happily on a sunny windowsill, while herbs like dill and rosemary may need grow lights. 

 

5.  Black Air Plants   

Air plants are quirky little plants that you mostly forget about. They’re liked for their ease of maintenance, futuristic look, and their ability to perch spritely on a medley of surfaces. Tillandsia aeranthos ‘The Black’ is an exciting variety that defaults to a grey hue but will turn an intense purple-black under bright, indirect light. To water air plants, soak them in water (filtered or rainwater is preferred) for 20-30 minutes once a week, then let them dry upside town on a paper towel. 

6. 'Black Magic' Elephant Ear

Large-leaf plants alone are a mystical sight, but when they’re a darker shade, they add a serious statement to the garden. A dusky, velvety purple that appears black, black elephant ears doubles as a worthy Halloween decoration. In zones 7 – 11, it can be grown as a perennial. In colder zones, the tubers can be lifted and stored indoors. 

7.  Lilium 'Nightrider'

With a mahogany color that appears almost jet-black and a satiny sheen, Lilium 'Nightrider' ranks among the most exquisite lilies grown. One of the darkest lilies available, it evokes the sultry vibes of wandering night spirits. Asiatic lilies like Nightrider can be grown indoors, provided they receive 6–8 hours of bright, indirect light and well-draining moisture. Before planting, amend the soil with organic compost. 

8. Begonia ‘Black Fancy’ 

Despite their ubiquity, begonias deliver plenty of drama. Begonia ‘Black Fancy’ is a rhizomatous type (grows from a shallow, knobby rhizome) whose compact habit creates a dense, full specimen: serrated charcoal leaves that swirl neatly and reward you with pink flowers in spring. Although rex begonias have a reputation for being hard to grow, some houses have ideal conditions that foster their survival, which can be achieved through some experimentation. 

9. Black and Red Gymnocalycium Cactus (Moon Cactus)

Plants for lazy gardeners seem unmotivated themselves, with a half-dead exterior, although this is starting to change. This unusual cactus, needing only low light and the occasional watering, is perfect for lazy gardeners. The top part, known as a scion, is grafted onto a green base. The scion lacks chlorophyll and cannot photosynthesize without rootstock.

10. Aeonium ‘Black Rose’

Fleshy succulents are usually far removed from roses, but the striking Aeonium ‘Black Rose’ retains the sculptural beauty of real roses, especially when grown in clusters. Aeonium can grow up to 12 inches (30 centimeters) tall, but often stays compact in indoor environments. Help it live its best life by watering sparingly, reducing it to about once a month during winter, its dormant stage. 

11. Echeveria ‘Black Prince’

Anything with the veneer of royalty continues to catch the fancy of the masses, and Echeveria ‘Black Prince’ is no different. The blackish-burgundy, dagger-like leaves crown the base, like a multi-layered lotus; indeed, it is the crowning jewel for many plant collectors. This is not a succulent you can buy at Lowe’s – rather, look for it at specialty shops or Etsy.