That being said, we are highlighting three categories for consideration: blooms, textures and colours.
Styling with Blooms
Flowers have an immediate impact on our happiness. Blooms are attractive to us, not only with their beautiful colours, but additionally with their alluring scents. When we select houseplants for their floral purposes we consider length of bloom time, recurrence of blooms and the added bonus of nectaries and pleasant scents.
Anthurium
Romantic, heart-shaped flowers that bloom throughout the entire year, lasting about 6 weeks per bloom. Colours vary, but generally we see bold reds, soft pinks, gentle oranges and at times a combination of two or three of them. These are not noticeably scented.
Jasmine
With plenty of low-maintenance variety options, jasmine is a top contender in this category not only for the mass of delicate white blooms but for it’s sweet fragrance. Flowering begins in the early Spring and blooms continue into the Fall. Subsequent blooms keep a heavenly scent throughout the majority of the year.
African Violets
Prized for their petite stature and prolific flowering habit, African violets can be easily styled in any room of your home (provided you have the right lighting conditions and are not in any drafts). The prized purple is a favourite but newer varieties produce various purple and pink shades along with beautiful variegated patterns featuring white and lighter pastels. Remember to encourage additional blooms by removing spent flowers.
Julie’s Tip: At times, African violets have an unfair reputation of being fussy. A common error is how these delicate blooms are watered. Always water by letting them “drink” from the bottom for about 20-30 minutes at least once a week and avoid top-watering.
With Textures
Artistry is at its zenith in nature; especially in the intricacies of patterns and corrugations. When we look to styling houseplants with a focus on texture we emphasize the placement in the home. In areas where we spend a great deal of time, like offices, bedrooms and kitchens, where having a textural visual interest is comforting. It can feel like a microbreak and reconnection with the natural world to simply gaze and quiet your mind.
Iron-Cross Begonia
Begonias in general have show-stopping foliage. We particularly like this variety for its striking two-toned marking that resemble the Iron Cross worn by the Crusaders. The colour combo adds depth to the detailed foliage. Note that these plants are toxic to children and pets alike.
Ti Plant
Botanically known as Cordyline fruticosa, this tropical houseplant features big, glossy and smooth foliage with a soft multi-colouring. Ideal for living spaces and bedrooms, the various tones here provide a visual depth, even with a smooth margin.
Lavender
An ideal houseplant to style your bedside tables, bedrooms and offices. The soft and almost wooly texture invites the scented leaves to be touched. With even the gentlest brushing, the memorable and calming scents are released. The smell is a wonderful stress combatant that can help soothe nerves after a long day relieving both stress and anxiety.
And with Colours
When styling with colour, there are two directions one can take with houseplants. Either you looks to lush foliage to act as larger focal points, or to blooms that are eye-catching and provide a visual pop. In this category, we also think of the impact decorative pots can make in creating something charming to look at.
Cyclamens
A suitable selection for smaller spaces, these flowering plants have upswept flowers and are paired with heart-shaped leaves. Flowers are available in a wide range including: red, purple, pink and white. They are generally easy to care for, preferring slightly cooler locations and watering when almost dried out. Blooms last for about 8-weeks and with proper care can last several years.
Alocasia
Take your pick! There is a wide range of Alocasias to choose from, mostly depending on overall size and leaf pattern preference. Foliage on all is striking; colours range from the darkest greens (in Alocasia reginula ‘Black Velvet’ variety) to rich greens (in Alocasia macrorrhiza ‘Stingray’) to even shades of grey-greens (in Alocasia bagindas ‘Dragon Scale’). Another bonus comes from the often stark contrast between the very bright veins and the remainder of the leaves.
Birds of Paradise
With 4-5 years of attentive care, the Bird of Paradise can be coaxed into a brilliant floral display. Blooms mimic that of a tropical bird, hence the name. While your BOP is reaching maturity; tall and elegant foliage makes styling a breeze. Brighten any corner and bring the touch of nature that is reminiscent of tropicals far away.
Styling with houseplants is easy; enjoy the transformative effect blooms, colours and textures can on your home and daily activities. If you don’t already, be sure to follow us on Instagram and Pinterest! Looking for more reading and inspiration on all things home, gardening and lifestyle? Check out the The Wild Blog.
