6 uncommon plants for November: Transform your winter garden with hoya, anthurium, alocasia

With the weather cooling down and the air outside becoming a hazard, create a green refuge at home with these indoor plants. The alocasia, fittonia and calathea have interesting leaf patterns, while the anthurium and hoya will blossoms that will be the showstoppers in your home or balcony garden.

Here’s a list of the 6 unusual indoor plants to keep your home vibrant and fresh this winter.

• Velvet Calathea (Calathea rufibarba): The textural beauty

The velvet calathea is famous for its velvety, soft leaves and striking patterns and is a must-have for plant lovers who appreciate unique textures.

Care tips:

• Prefers low to medium indirect light.


• Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.


• Mist regularly to maintain humidity.

Also read | 10 reasons why you should have an indoor garden

• Anthurium (Flamingo Flower): The showstopper

The vibrant flowers and glossy, heart-shaped leaves of the Anthurium bring a splash of colour and elegance to your space.

Care tips:

• Requires bright, indirect light for blooming.


• Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.


• Maintain high humidity for optimal growth.

• Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata): The classic greenery

The Boston Fern is a lush, feathery fern that will look great from your hanging baskets or pedestal displays. Its dense greenery creates a fresh, lively ambiance, even during cold months.

Care tips:

• Needs bright, indirect light and consistent moisture.


• Mist frequently or place near a humidifier to prevent leaf browning.


• Trim dead fronds to maintain its appearance.

Also read | 7 ways indoor gardening benefits you and your home

• Hoya (Wax Plant): The fragrant climber

Hoyas have beautiful waxy leaves and star-shaped flowers that will fill your balcony with a sweet scent when they bloom. They’re perfect for shelves or hanging pots.

Care tips:

• Thrives in bright, indirect sunlight.


• Water when the topsoil is dry; avoid overwatering.


• Use well-draining soil to prevent root rot.

• Fittonia (Nerve Plant): The vibrant gem

Fittonias are small plants with striking veined leaves in colours ranging from white and pink to red. They’re perfect for adding colour and texture to any corner.

Care tips:

• Prefers low to medium indirect light.


• Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.


• Mist frequently to maintain high humidity.

Also read | 9 ways to boost mental health and wellness in winter

• Alocasia Polly (African Mask Plant): The dramatic focal point

The Alocasia Polly is a striking plant with dark green leaves and contrasting white veins and is a bold choice for anyone looking to make a statement. Its perfectly sculpted leaves will make it a centrepiece of your home garden.

Care tips:

• Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some shade.


• Water moderately and ensure good drainage.


• Mist occasionally to maintain humidity.

Indoor plants are a simple yet effective way to brighten up your home this winter. These plants will add a touch of nature to your indoor space and help you beat the winter blues.