The aglaonema, or Chinese evergreen, is an attractive plant loved for its elegant foliage and easygoing ways. Its striking, often patterned leaves and tolerance for low light make it very well suited to life indoors. Bright, indirect light is its…
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Does a peacock plant flower indoors?
Just as decorative as its flamboyant namesake, the peacock plant brings glamour and a dash of drama. Also known as Calathea makoyana, the exotic beauty’s natural home is the rainforest areas of Brazil – particularly the steamy subtropical south. Outside…
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Also known as foxtails or red hot cat’s tail, the chenille plant (Acalypha hispida) is a striking little shrub and no mistake. Suitable for growing indoors or out, in its summer pomp it produces red tassel-like bracts that resemble fuzzy…
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The ponytail palm or elephant’s foot (Beaucarnea recurvata) is a curious-looking specimen, but lovable with it. Native to Mexico, these exotic perennials aren’t related to true palms but bear a strong resemblance (albeit with an unrulier hairstyle). As you’d expect…
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Lush and exotic zebra plants (Aphelandra squarrosa) bring a tropical feel indoors with dramatic foliage and sunshine yellow bracts. Native to Brazilian rainforests, they crave warm, wet conditions and can be particular. One issue that crops up often is drooping…
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Do orchids need clear pots?
Just treated yourself to an indoor orchid? More than likely it came in a clear plastic pot. While other houseplants are sold in coloured plastic pots, the default choice for orchids is a transparent pot where you can see the…
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Last year, I got my first peace lily. Needless to say, it’s a beauty – but I was not prepared for the sulking! When it’s unhappy, my plant wastes NO time in letting me know, demanding attention with a melodramatic…
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From Victorian conservatories to the pages of Instagram, ferns have been fashionable indoor plants for generations. Despite a fussy reputation, most ferns aren’t too difficult to grow indoors. Like most houseplants, some varieties are easier than others, and none will…
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Fabulous ferns have been popular houseplants since Victorian times – almost two centuries! While other fads come and go, the love of ferns in the plant community doesn’t look like slowing down any time soon. These ancient plants have been…
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Do air plants need sun?
You’ll know, if you’ve seen them growing out in the open, that air plants (Tillandsia) don’t need soil. But do air plants need sun to survive, or can they get by on air alone? They may be low-maintenance, but these…
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