A room with houseplants can be an absolute joy, especially in winter when weather conditions are sometimes unsuitable for outdoor gardening. We all have a spot in the house that is well away from a window and light is scarce. Below I list five of my favourite plants for brightening up these dull conditions that won’t suffer in such an environment.
Aspidistra elatior
These elegant plants have been popular since Victorian times. It gains it’s common name of cast iron plant from it’s fool proof nature, so for those of you whose fingers are not so green, this is a great plant for you, withstanding some drought, pollution and positively enjoying shade.
Dracaena fragrans ‘Lemon Lime’
This dragon tree brings a bit of colour to a room with it’s variegated cream and lime foliage. It is another plant that is suitable for the novice. It adds some height as it grows, without occupying too much floor space.
Sansevieria trifasciata var. laurentii
Controversially known as mother-in-law’s tongue, this plant is one of the most indestructible of the houseplants. It’s delightfully patterned leaves have earned it it’s other name of snake plant and brighten dark environments standing upright and fitting nicely into a tight spot.
Dracaena marginata
This alternative form of the dragon tree is a popular choice. It’s palm like leaves atop upright stems often have red edges. They provide an exotic appearance, without requiring a sun baked environment.
Philodendron scandens
With it’s English name, for obvious reasons, of heart leaf this lovely plant is a fast growing climber that is often supplied growing up a moss pole that will help provide humidity. It’s evergreen leaves provide year round interest and can become quite large as it grows, perhaps up to 30cm (12in) as the plant matures.
To view these and many other houseplants for shade at Crocus click here
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Mark Snelling
All images copyright Crocus
