Top 5 house plants in 2022

As we get into March, many of us anticipate returning to the garden, our green fingers itching to get our hands dirty. Unfortunately, we are forced to put on the brakes until the last frost has past. Luckily we still have our fabulous house plants to tend to. So why not treat yourself to a new addition to fill that empty space on the windowsill. Here is my pick of the top 5 house plants that make a wonderful addition to any home.

1.Spider plant

The spider plant was one of the first plants I ever owned. Still young and undoubtedly not the best plant owner in the world, I was still able to keep it not only alive but thriving in my unknowledgeable care. Amazed, by the constant growth of little baby plants sprouting from the original, I would repot them all into separate little pots until I had a windowsill full and was forced to gift them to friends and family. I have fond memories of spider plants and is one plant I have almost always kept at least one of (currently in the possession of two). So spider plants had to be one of my top 5.

Spider plants are also sometimes called spider ivy, ribbon plant or hen and chickens but its scientific name is Chlorophytum comosum. There are a few variations to spider plants but most have bright green and cream leaves. They do well in indirect or dappled light and seem to be tolerant to moderate drought, so if you have a tendency to forget to water your plants from time to time, this could be a good one for you.

2.ZZ Plant

The ZZ plant is one I have overlooked for a long time until I bought one to gift to my sister. It was sat in my home for a few weeks until her birthday when I presented it to her. It was exactly what she wanted and loved it. Unfortunately for me I soon realised I had grown attached to the ZZ plant and in no time, found myself rushing out to get one of my own. It quickly turned into one of my favourite plants and wondered why I had overlooked it for so long.

The ZZ plants scientific name is Zamioculcas zamiifolia but is also known as a Zanzibar gem, Zuzu plant, aroid palm or eternity plant. They are another great plant for people who may not water on a regular basis or have to spent time away from home as these plants actually do better in dryer conditions and should be provided with good drainage. They can also do well with moderate or indirect sunlight so are great plants for spots that aren’t close to bright windows.

3.Rubber plant

When I moved into my house over 5 years ago, I decided to treat myself to a new plant. I purchased a small rubber plant that was maybe 1-1½ ft tall. It is now 6ft tall and that is after I have pruned it a few times to stop it reaching the celling. I absolutely love my rubber plant. It makes a great statement plant with its beautiful broad leaves and its extremely hardy. It has been moved from cold areas of the house to warm areas and it has done well in both, although I have noticed that its growth does slow significantly in colder locations. It has been overwatered and under watered and is still looking fantastic.

Sometimes called Rubber fig or rubber tree, its scientific name is Ficus elastic. These plants do need a lot of light to thrive but will tolerate low light. Its leaves can be scorched by too much hot direct sunlight but once you find this plant the perfect placement it can grow quickly. If you have the space for this plant, it is a must for all plant keepers.

4.Pothos

I have kept Pothos for a while now and Its one of my most recommended plants for beginner plant keepers. It’s a beautiful plant with big bright leaves that’s easy to keep and propagate. I first got it to grow out of a fish tank as it does extremely well in just water and loves the nutrients in a fish tank, also helping to maintain water quality in your tank.

Also known as devil’s ivy, its scientific name is Epipremnum aureum. They love a nice sunny spot but will tolerate medium to low light location as well. They grow very fast and look great as hanging or trailing plants. Water frequently but allow the soil to dry out between watering and you will have a beautiful plant, perfect for brightening up any room.

5.Dieffenbachia, dumb cane

This is a new plant for me. I got my first dumb cane just a few weeks ago so I’m still learning about how to best care for it but I had to include this plant for the same reason a purchased one. It has extremely beautiful large bright green leaves and makes a real statement feature plant. Caution should be taken with this plant has it is toxic and should be kept away from children and animals. Take precautions while handling or propagating and always wash your hands well after. Perhaps not the best plant for a beginner, care should be taken not to overwater but once you have established its ideal care needs these can be a rewarding plant to keep.

Other names for this plant includes mother-in-law’s tongue or leopard lily, it’s scientific name is Dieffenbachia seguine. This plant can be rooted through cuttings to propagate and can grow up to an impressive 5-6 feet tall under optimal conditions making it a perfect statement plant.

If you are interested in following my ever-growing plant collection, you can follow my journey @DeepJungleplants on Instagram.