The warm sun’s glow through windows brings a soft, golden light. It makes us fall in love with tropical big leaf house plants. These plants turn a room into a lush oasis, taking us to faraway lands with their big leaves and dramatic shapes.
The Monstera Deliciosa, or Swiss Cheese Plant, is a favorite among indoor gardeners. Its leaves are big and split, with unique holes that make it stand out. The Alocasia, or Elephant Ear Plant, has broad leaves that can grow up to 10 feet tall. The Philodendron Selloum, or Tree Philodendron, has leaves up to two feet long and grows 8 to 10 feet tall indoors.
Key Takeaways
- Tropical big leaf houseplants add a lush, jungle-like feel to indoor spaces
- Popular options include Monstera Deliciosa, Alocasia, Philodendron Selloum, and Fiddle Leaf Fig
- These plants vary in size, care requirements, and visual appeal, offering a diverse selection for indoor gardeners
- Impressive foliage and dramatic silhouettes make tropical big leaf plants a coveted choice for transforming rooms into verdant oases
- Careful selection and proper care are essential for maintaining the vibrant colors and lush growth of these tropical beauties
Monstera Deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant)
The Monstera Deliciosa, also known as the Swiss Cheese Plant, is a beloved tropical houseplant. It’s famous for its large, fenestrated leaves. As it grows, its leaves get holes and splits, making it stand out. It loves bright, indirect light and needs consistent moisture, perfect for indoor gardens.
Characteristics and Care Requirements
Monstera Deliciosa can grow up to 3 feet wide and reach 9 feet tall in its natural setting. It’s part of a family that includes several other Swiss Cheese Plants, each with its own look. These plants do well in bright, filtered light and need humidity between 60-80% for growth.
They like warm temperatures, between 65-90°F (18-27°C), and should be watered once a week. Make sure the topsoil dries out completely between waterings to avoid root rot.
Monstera Deliciosa comes from Central America’s rainforests and belongs to the Aroid Family (Araceae). It can grow up to 70 feet tall, with long aerial roots. The plant’s fruit tastes like a mix of banana, pineapple, and mango. But, all parts of the plant, except the ripe fruit, are poisonous due to oxalic acid.
To take care of a Monstera Deliciosa, ensure it gets the right light, moisture, and temperature. Feed it every 2-3 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season. Repot it every 2 years or when the roots outgrow the pot. You can propagate it through water, soil, or air-layering, with roots appearing in 2-6 weeks.
Alocasia (Elephant Ear Plant)
Alocasia, also known as the Elephant Ear plant, is a stunning group of tropical houseplants. They are famous for their big, eye-catching leaves. Each type has unique leaf shapes and colors, making any room feel lush and exotic.
Varieties and Care Tips
Elephant Ear plants, like Alocasia, Colocasia, Caladium, and Xanthosoma, love high humidity, bright light, and moist soil. Taking good care of these tropical houseplants with large leaves is key. They can be a bit tricky to keep happy indoors.
There are many alocasia and elephant ear plant types, such as ‘Black Coral,’ ‘Blue Hawaii,’ and ‘Lime Zinger.’ They come in different colors, sizes, and shapes. These tropical houseplants with large leaves can grow from 8 inches to over 9 feet tall, with most staying between 3 to 5 feet.
“Elephant Ear plants comprise various species and cultivars, each with unique leaves that distinguish them, with no two plants being alike in appearance.”
To help your alocasia or elephant ear plant grow well, give them plenty of water and fertilizer when they’re growing. Also, keep an eye on their temperature and humidity needs, as they can differ. With proper care, these tropical houseplants will make your indoor spaces look bold and lush.
Philodendron Selloum (Tree Philodendron)
The Philodendron Selloum, also known as the Tree Philodendron, is a stunning tropical houseplant. It has huge, deeply lobed leaves that can grow up to two feet long. This type of Philodendron grows fast and does well in many indoor settings. It’s a great choice for those who want a beautiful plant that’s easy to care for.
With the right care, like bright, indirect light and moist, well-drained soil, the Philodendron Selloum can get quite big. An indoor Tree Philodendron can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide. Its leaf stalks can also reach up to 3 feet long, depending on the pot size.
The Philodendron Selloum loves bright, indirect light and needs a soil mix with bark and perlite that drains well. Water it once a week, soaking the soil well to keep it moist. It can handle some drought but prefers consistent moisture. Use a balanced houseplant fertilizer, but be careful not to give it too much nitrogen.
In 2018, the Tree Philodendron was moved from the Philodendron genus to the Thaumatophyllum genus. Yet, it’s still often called the Philodendron Selloum. Its unique split leaves and long stalks make it a favorite for indoor plants and large leaf plants.
“The Tree Philodendron is a striking addition to any indoor space, with its massive, lush foliage and impressive size.”
What are some tropical big leaf house plants?
Beyond the Monstera Deliciosa, Alocasia, and Philodendron Selloum, many tropical big leaf house plants can make your space feel like a lush jungle. The Fiddle Leaf Fig stands out with its unique leaves. The Bird of Paradise adds stunning blooms to any room.
The Rubber Tree has glossy, big leaves that make a bold statement. The Philodendron ‘Red Congo’ and ‘Golden Crocodile’ add vibrant colors. The tropical Banana Tree and Elephant Ear Plant create an exotic feel.
- Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata): Reaches up to 10 ft. tall, with large, fiddle-shaped leaves for a dramatic look.
- Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae): Its orange and blue blooms look like a bird in flight, adding tropical flair.
- Rubber Tree (Ficus elastica): Known for its glossy, big leaves that can grow up to 10 ft. tall and 3 ft. wide.
Choosing and caring for these tropical big leaf houseplants can turn your home into a lush oasis. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colors. This lets you create a unique and immersive indoor space.
“Bringing the tropics indoors through these magnificent big leaf plants can transport you to a serene, nature-filled sanctuary right in the comfort of your own home.”
If you love the elegance of the Fiddle Leaf Fig or the bright colors of the Philodendron ‘Red Congo’, explore the world of tropical big leaf house plants. It’s full of wonders waiting to be discovered and enjoyed.
Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)
The Fiddle Leaf Fig, or Ficus lyrata, is a trendy tropical houseplant known for its large, fiddle-shaped leaves. It needs bright, direct light and consistent moisture. When cared for properly, it can grow up to 10 feet tall indoors, making a bold statement with its glossy leaves.
Coming from western Africa’s tropics, the Fiddle Leaf Fig loves warm and humid conditions. It’s a top choice for its dramatic texture and big, dark green leaves. Studies show it helps purify indoor air by removing harmful compounds.
Though challenging, the Fiddle Leaf Fig rewards those who care for it. Place it in bright, indirect light, water when the top soil dries, and keep humidity levels up. With the right care, this plant can brighten your home.
“Fiddle leaf figs are described as one of the trendiest houseplants available, favored for their bold, dramatic texture and big leaves in a rich shade of dark green.”
Fiddle leaf fig trees thrive in the right conditions but can be picky. They need plenty of light and prefer higher humidity levels. Avoid placing them in low-light spots or dry environments.
To keep your Fiddle Leaf Fig healthy, water it when the top soil is dry. Avoid over- or under-watering. Fertilize in spring or summer, and prune to keep its shape. Be careful, as the sap can drip after pruning.
With the right care, the Fiddle Leaf Fig brings beauty and clean air to your home. For more on the Philodendron Golden Dragon, check out our previous article.
Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)
The Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae) is a stunning tropical houseplant. It’s known for its exotic flowers that look like a bird in flight. The plant also has large, dark green leaves up to 18 inches long and 6 inches wide.
This plant is from South Africa and is in the Strelitziaceae family, related to bananas. Its bright orange-blue and white flowers look like a crane. With the right care, it can bloom indoors. It needs bright light, moist soil, and a temperature of 65°F-85°F (18°C-30°C).
- The Strelitzia reginae is the most popular type of Bird of Paradise plant, loved worldwide.
- Bird of Paradise plants can grow up to 20 feet tall in the wild, but the Strelitzia nicolai can get up to 2 meters tall. It’s big enough for indoor and outdoor spaces.
- Even though they’re big, Bird of Paradise plants can bloom indoors if the conditions are right. This is not common, though.
“The Bird of Paradise is a true showstopper, with its exotic blooms and large, lush foliage. It’s a must-have for any tropical-inspired indoor space.”
If you love plants or are starting your indoor garden, the Bird of Paradise is a great choice. It can make any room look better. With the right care, this tropical beauty will be the highlight of your space.
Rubber Tree (Ficus elastica)
The Rubber Tree (Ficus elastica) is a beautiful tropical houseplant that brightens any indoor area. It comes from India and tropical Asia. This plant is easy to care for and has big, shiny leaves that can be several feet long. It’s perfect for both homes and offices.
Rubber trees are tough and can live in many indoor settings. They love bright, indirect light and soil that drains well. Make sure the top part of the soil dries out before watering again. Too much water can cause root rot.
Inside, rubber trees can grow 6 to 10 feet tall. They can handle different humidity levels, from normal to high. This makes them great for adding a touch of the tropics to your home.
This plant can even grow well in tight spaces. It only needs about 2 inches of soil around its pot. So, it’s perfect for small spaces and can fit in many containers.
To keep your Rubber Tree healthy, feed it with a balanced liquid fertilizer in spring and summer. Dusting the leaves helps them absorb more light and grow better.
Whether you’re new to plants or have been growing them for years, the Rubber Tree (Ficus elastica) is a great choice. It can make any collection of tropical houseplants look amazing.
Philodendron ‘Red Congo’
For those who love tropical houseplants, the Philodendron ‘Red Congo’ is a top pick. It has large, shiny leaves that start green and turn deep red as they grow. This plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and wide, making any room look lush and vibrant.
This plant loves bright, indirect light and needs soil that drains well and stays moist. It grows fast, making it great for those who want big, colorful leaves in their homes.
“The Rojo Congo philodendron is a hybrid plant developed in Florida, a cross between Philodendron tatei and Philodendron imperial red.”
The ‘Red Congo’ stands out because of its unique leaves. They look like a horse’s head, which is why it’s also called “Horsehead Philodendron.” Its size, color, and leaf shape make it a standout among tropical houseplants.
Even though it’s not safe for pets, the ‘Red Congo’ can make any room feel like a tropical paradise. It’s perfect for anyone who loves large leaf plants. It’s a beautiful addition to any home.
Banana Tree (Musa)
The Banana Tree (Musa) brings a tropical feel to your home. It’s a large-leaf plant that does well indoors with the right care. Outdoor Banana Trees can grow tall, but indoor types like the Super Dwarf Cavendish and Dwarf Ladyfinger stay shorter, 3-5 feet tall. These houseplants love bright sunlight and moist soil. With the right care, they might even give you bananas.
Indoor Varieties and Care Tips
Popular indoor Banana Trees include the Musa Dwarf Cavendish and the Musa Tropicana. These plants can grow up to 2 meters tall, adding beauty to any room. Keep your Banana Tree happy by giving it lots of sunlight and regular watering. The soil should be a bit acidic and well-draining to avoid root rot.
- Hardiness Zone: 8 to 10
- Mature Size: 8 to 10 feet tall and 6 to 8 feet wide as a houseplant
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Native Area: Southwest Asia and South Pacific
Feeding your Banana Tree is key, especially when it’s growing fast. Use a liquid houseplant fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. This will help your plant get the nutrients it needs. With proper care, your banana tree might even produce fruit. But its real beauty is in its large, paddle-shaped leaves, up to 10 inches long.
“Bringing a touch of the tropics to your indoor oasis, the Banana Tree (Musa) is a captivating large-leaf plant that can flourish in the right conditions.”
Whether you’re new to plants or have lots of experience, the Banana Tree is a great choice. It brings a lush, exotic look to your home and might even produce fruit. This musa species is sure to bring joy and inspiration to you.
Elephant Ear Plant (Alocasia, Colocasia)
The Elephant Ear Plant, part of the Alocasia and Colocasia families, is a favorite among tropical houseplants. It’s known for its huge, unique leaves. These plants can grow up to 6 feet tall and have leaves up to 18 inches long and 6 inches wide.
They love high humidity, moist soil, and bright, indirect light. With their striking leaves, these indoor plants with bold foliage can really stand out in any room.
There are many types of Elephant Ear Plants for indoor gardens. Alocasia macrorrhiza Odora (Upright) is a great choice for winter. Colocasia esculenta varieties like ‘Black Magic’ and ‘Hawaiian Punch’ come in different colors and sizes, some reaching 7 feet tall in the right conditions.
To keep your elephant ear plant happy, use a potting mix with compost and water it often. Feed it a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly when it’s growing. But remember, the plant’s sap can irritate people and pets if touched.
“Elephant ear plants are a must-have for any tropical houseplants or large leaf plants enthusiast. Their bold, dramatic foliage adds an instant touch of the exotic to any indoor space.”
Choosing between an Alocasia or Colocasia, the elephant ear plant is a beautiful choice for indoor plants with bold foliage. With the right care, these tropical plants can flourish indoors, bringing a bit of jungle to your home.
Philodendron ‘Golden Crocodile’
The Philodendron ‘Golden Crocodile’ is a stunning variety of the popular Philodendron genus. It has large, golden leaves that look like a crocodile’s back. These leaves can grow up to 24 inches long, making it a standout in any room.
This tropical houseplant loves bright, indirect light and moist, well-drained soil. Regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer is key for its health.
“Philodendron plants, including the ‘Golden Crocodile’ variety, are highly sought after by aroid plant enthusiasts who appreciate their unique characteristics.”
Pruning is important for the ‘Golden Crocodile’. It helps remove damaged leaves and encourages new growth. But, be careful not to overwater, as it can cause root rot.
The Philodendron ‘Golden Crocodile’ belongs to the aroid plant family, along with Monstera, Anthurium, and Alocasia. It’s native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. There, it grows as a vine.
For those who love indoor plants with unique foliage, the Philodendron ‘Golden Crocodile’ is a top pick. Its eye-catching look and easy care make it a favorite among aroid enthusiasts and tropical houseplant fans.
Caladium
Colorful Foliage and Care Requirements
Caladiums are tropical houseplants known for their bright, multicolored leaves. These leaves can be pink, red, white, or green. They have large, arrowhead-shaped foliage that brightens any indoor area.
These plants need high humidity, stable temperatures, and indirect light to do well. They like to stay moist but not soaked. This makes them easy to care for if you want a bold, tropical look at home.
Caladiums come in over 1,000 varieties, offering a wide range of colors. They are split into two types: “fancy leaf” with broad, heart-shaped leaves, and “strap leaf” with narrower, more pointed leaves. Strap leaf caladiums handle sunlight better, while fancy leaf types prefer bright, indirect light.
- Dots Delight Caladium
- Fiesta Caladium
- Florida Fantasy Caladium
- Icicle Caladium
- White Lightning Caladium
Caladiums are gaining popularity in design for their exotic look and colorful leaves. Indoors, place them near north or east-facing windows for the best light. They need regular watering and a monthly feed during the growing season to stay vibrant.
“Caladiums are one of the most eye-catching tropical houseplants you can grow indoors, with their stunning foliage that rivals any floral arrangement.”
Calathea orbifolia (Prayer Plant)
The Calathea orbifolia, also known as the Prayer Plant, is a stunning tropical houseplant. It has large, slightly rounded leaves with pale, whitish-green stripes. The leaves’ undersides show a striking silvery-green color, making the plant stand out.
This plant is easy to care for. It loves high humidity, indirect light, and moist, well-drained soil. The Calathea orbifolia can grow up to 3 feet tall, making it a great addition to any room.
For the best growth, keep the Calathea orbifolia in a spot with a temperature of 75°F. It does well in USDA hardiness zones 10-11, which are warm or hot. Keeping the humidity at 50% or more is key for this plant.
The Calathea orbifolia likes soil with a pH of about 6.5. Feed it with a liquid fertilizer that has an NPK ratio of 3-1-2 every two to three months during the growing season. This will keep it healthy and bright.
Repot the Calathea orbifolia every two years or when you see the roots. It grows slowly, especially indoors. You can divide it in the late spring to start new plants.
“The Calathea orbifolia is a true showstopper, with its captivating foliage that seems to dance with the sun’s movement. As a tropical houseplant with unique foliage, it adds a touch of drama and elegance to any indoor space.”
Cast-Iron Plant
Are you looking for a houseplant that’s easy to care for and loves low light? The Cast-Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior) is perfect for you. It’s known for surviving in tough conditions, needing little water and light.
This plant has long, deep-green leaves that can grow up to 2 feet long. They add a lush look to any room. Coming from Asia, it’s great for beginners or those who’ve had trouble with houseplants before. It fights off pests and diseases easily.
The Cast-Iron Plant is a top choice for tropical houseplants and large leaf plants. It’s low-maintenance, making it perfect for anyone wanting a simple indoor plant. It does well in bright or dim rooms, adding green beauty to your space.
“The Cast-Iron Plant is a true testament to resilience, showcasing how even the most neglected plants can flourish with minimal care.”
You can get the Cast-Iron Plant for $399 (with a 20% discount) from Leon and George. It’s a great deal for a plant that brings years of beauty with little effort. Add the tropical feel of the Cast-Iron Plant to your home and enjoy its easy care.
Kentia Palm
Bring elegance to any room with the Kentia Palm (Howea Forsteriana). This tropical plant is loved for its long, deep-green fronds. It’s easy to care for, perfect for those wanting a touch of old-world charm.
The Kentia Palm looks big but is tough and adaptable. It does well in many light conditions and soils. Just keep it out of direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn. This palm can be a calm and sophisticated friend indoors for many years.
Kentia Palm’s Versatility and Benefits
Kentia Palms are great for low-light spaces, making them ideal for dim rooms. They can change a room’s look and feel, adding interesting shadows near lamps at night.
These palms are not just pretty; they clean the air too. They remove harmful toxins like Xylene, Formaldehyde, and Toluene. Adding one to your home or office can make the air cleaner and healthier.
For beginners, Kentia Palms are a great choice. They need little care and are safe with pets and kids. Their slow growth and safe nature make them perfect for any home.
Looking for a statement piece or a low-care plant? The Kentia Palm fits the bill. It’s adaptable, cleans the air, and is easy to care for. This tropical plant brings beauty and peace to any space.
Conclusion
Tropical big leaf houseplants bring a lush, jungle feel to any indoor space. They include the famous Monstera Deliciosa and Fiddle Leaf Fig, as well as the dramatic Alocasia and Bird of Paradise. These plants can change a room with their big, bold leaves. With the right care, like bright, indirect light and consistent moisture, they make a refreshing, nature-inspired atmosphere.
These plants are great for both experienced and new plant owners. Adding one or more of these tropical big leaf houseplants brings a touch of the exotic home. They not only look good but also clean the air by removing pollutants. They are easy to care for and can grow well in different lighting conditions, making them a great choice for any indoor garden.
To keep these plants healthy and looking good, it’s important to know their care needs. This includes the right amount of water, fertilizer, and humidity. Whether you pick a Monstera Deliciosa, Alocasia, or Philodendron, these plants will make any indoor space look better. They add a touch of the tropics to your home.
