Tiny houseplants are adorable on end tables and nightstands, but large, oversized houseplants and indoor trees make a statement. Indeed, just a few tall plants strategically located are all it takes to turn your home into an oasis.
Large plants are, not surprisingly, more expensive than tabletop versions. That means you need to be doubly sure you’re giving your new plant the correct light so that it thrives. Most east, south, and west-facing windows provide ample bright light for plants that need lots of light. North-facing windows, however, are too dim for most plants, especially during the dark days of winter. If you’re not blessed with big, beautiful windows, it’s smart to invest in an LED grow light to keep your plants happy.
Watering is the next issue: Make sure to feel the soil and don’t give it another drink it if’s still wet or soil clings to your finger. Most houseplants are tropical in origin, so they like to dry out slightly between waterings. Very few like to stay wet all the time! In fact, more plants die of overwatering than under-watering, so err on the conservative side when watering your houseplants. It’s also okay to feed your houseplants with a liquid houseplant fertilizer at half-strength once a month during the growing season (spring to fall).
Ahead, our favorite tall houseplants and indoor trees to glam up your space.
Potted Bamboo
A potted bamboo plant is beautiful in an entryway, home office, or really any unused corner that could use some livening up. Some are grown in water, like this one, so you only have to change the water weekly and don’t need to do much else. It also tolerates fairly low light levels.
Snake Plant
If you’re a beginner plant parent, adopt a snake plant. It’s one of the easiest houseplants to take care of and basically thrives on neglect, even if you forget to water it for a few weeks. Just don’t let it stay soggy because it doesn’t like wet feet.
ZZ Plant
If you’re looking for a sleek, low-light option, the ZZ plant is your new best friend. They’re super low maintenance and barely need to be watered, and they absolutely don’t mind very low light levels.
Fiddle Leaf Fig
Fiddle leaf figs are notoriously finicky, but if you have bright light and don’t overwater it, it will do just fine. Dust the large, dramatic leaves occasionally.
Peace Lily
This old standby has been popular for decades for a reason: It’s a reliable, elegant plant with handsome white spoon-shaped flowers. Give it bright indirect light, and keep it slightly moist. It will adapt to low light levels but will not bloom well.
Dracaena
With their long strappy leaves, dracaena are striking plants with a strong upright form. They come in many different varieties and foliage colors. They need moderate light and slightly moist soil.
Olive Tree
Give your olive tree bright light, and you’ll feel like you’re visiting an Italian villa. Let the soil dry out in between waterings because this Mediterranean native likes to stay a little on the dry side.
Norfolk Pine
This soft-needled pine often is sold as a tiny Christmas tree, but it’s also a lovely plant year-round. Give it bright indirect light, and keep it slightly moist. Don’t let it dry out or it tends to drop branches from the bottom, which won’t regrow.
