Gardening tips: How to give your home decor a zen vibe with trending houseplants

This year, expect a spotlight on plants with striking foliage. Species like calathea, maranta, colocasia, and hypoestes -- known for their dramatic and colorful leaves are rising in popularity. These plants add instant character to dull spaces and complement both modern and traditional interiors.

Another big trend is the move toward statement plants. Instead of cluttering corners with multiple small pots, homeowners are choosing one large, sculptural plant as a focal point. Think fiddle leaf fig, kentia palm, or monstera. These plants make a bold impact, lending grandeur and structure to a room while being easier to manage than several smaller ones.

Low upkeep, high returns

At the same time, plant lovers are rediscovering the charm of low-maintenance varieties. With busy lifestyles resuming, fuss-free classics like spider plants, cacti, and succulents are making a comeback. These forgiving species thrive with minimal care—perfect for beginners or those who want greenery without the stress of upkeep.

In India, traditional choices still hold strong. Money plant (pothos), tulsi, areca palm, and aloe vera remain staples in households, blending functionality with culture. Tulsi continues to be revered for its medicinal and spiritual value, while aloe vera doubles up as a handy skincare ingredient. Meanwhile, the resilient money plant is adored for its symbolism of prosperity and ease of growth, often thriving in just a jar of water.

Also read: 5 vintage furniture pieces that instantly add charm to your home

Petite and pretty

Smaller spaces too are seeing their fair share of greenery with petite plants, terrariums, dwarf ferns, and succulents brightening desks and shelves. These little wonders bring just as much cheer as larger varieties and are ideal for work-from-home nooks or compact apartments. Complementing them, seagrass baskets and cement planters are trending as sustainable, earthy vessels for these greens.

The love for experimentation is also driving trends like water plants and moss bowls. From aquascaping and marimo balls in bathrooms to trailing vines like devil’s ivy cascading from shelves, these plants bring an organic, layered texture to interiors. Moss bowls as seen in many celebrity homes are another chic choice, offering either preserved moss that’s maintenance-free or living moss that thrives with misting. Finally, air-purifying plants such as the snake plant, peace lily, and bamboo palm continue to gain popularity as biophilic design becomes mainstream. These plants not only enhance the calming vibe of a room but also contribute to better health by filtering toxins from the air.