It is absolutely not necessary to wait for a magical flowering period, because a fairly large number of indoor ornamental plants have surprisingly beautiful variegated or green leaves.

What houseplants will give your interior a positive mood? You can find the answer to this question in this article, which is dedicated to the seven wonderful decorative flowers.

Looking for unusual and bright colors, you should pay attention to such representatives of the "mutated" flora as begonia, hypoesthesia ... Special attention flower growers are attracted by flowers with red leaves, such as coleus, codiaum, poinsettia, etc.

Coleus Blume (Coleus blumeii)


In the photo: coleus with red-burgundy leaves ...

This decorative handsome man, who arrived from the tropical latitudes of Africa and Asia, quickly took root on the windowsills of the inhabitants of the northern latitudes. Picturesque burgundy leaves with a barely noticeable green or other color edging become the best memory of the rainbow colors of summer during snow-white and cold winter. Interestingly, the color of coleus leaves largely depends on the amount of sunlight.

Hypoestes (Hypoestes)


The main competitor to other houseplants - the colorful decorative leaves of hypoesthesia will delight any grower.

Keeping a luxurious variegated color is far from easy, requiring bright lighting and humidity for yourself. Depending on the variety, the color can be either white, pink or bright red, while spots and patterns determine the color perception of the entire plant.

Fittonia (Fittonia)


Photo: indoor fittonia with very interesting leaves covered with silver, red, pink mesh patterns ...

Small leaves of Fittonia and hypoesthesia will create colorful spots in a decorative composition. True, these plants tend to stretch, so constant pruning and pinching will be an indispensable condition for them.

Codiaeum motley (Codiaeum), or Croton (Croton)


Growing at home, croton reaches a length of one and a half meters, at home - 40-80 centimeters. The unusual appearance of this decorative flower is manifested in the fact that the leaves of the codiaum are diverse - long, twisted, with bizarre cuts, yellow, green, orange, red - they give originality to the shrub. The leaves at the top of the plant change color as they grow.

Iresine (Iresine) - a plant with red leaves


Belongs to the Amaranth family (Amarathaceae). Grow mainly decorative species: Herbst (Iresine herbstii) and Linden (Iresine lindenii), which are valued for the unusual color of the leaves, with pronounced veins. The plant reaches a height of 60 cm. If you cut the ends of the shoots, you can get a surprisingly beautiful lush bush.

The cultivars are also beautiful with their reddish stems and pale green leaves veined with red and golden yellow.

Begonia royal (Begonia rex)


Speaking about the decorativeness of elegant leaves, one cannot help but mention the royal begonia - one of the most common plants in our house. She is like a real queen - she loves space.

The size of the bush and leaves can be from miniature to large. Leaves appearing velvety, in various color and pattern combinations, some with a metallic silver sheen, marble pattern. The shape can be simple round, oblong, heart-shaped, cochlear, pinnate, slightly or deeply dissected, stellate. The edges of the leaves are often jagged or wavy ...


In the photo: begonia "Escargot" ("Escargot") - leaves with a spiral on long petioles, shaped like a snail's house, for which it was called the "royal snail".

Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima)


Another gift of nature is the poinsettia, which fascinates with its green-red leaves (red bracts). True, in order to enjoy this beauty, you need to carefully look after it.

These are the nuances associated with bright colorful or green plants that will become a pearl on any windowsill. Assessing decorative leaf indoor species for ease of care, we can say that the most unpretentious, of course, is the coleus, followed by hypoestes, and only then the rest of the plants.

But everything is not so difficult, the main thing is to treat indoor flowers with love, and they will certainly repay with rich color, lush forms and good mood.

Hypoestes is a member of the Acanthus family. This evergreen plant is most often distributed in tropical climates (Madagascar, South Africa, Costa Rica, India). From the Greek language, the name hypoestes: "hypo" - under and "estia" - house (a message to the structure of the flower).

Another name hypoestes is translated from English as “plant with peas”, because. it is quite popular among flowers grown at home. In addition, in some countries it is also grown on the street, in flower beds.

Hypoestes plants are artisanal, low, with many branches. The leaves are distinguished by their shape: ovate, with a pointed tip, smooth (sometimes serrated), bright in color, oppositely arranged on a juicy and hard stem. Hypoesthesia leaves are green with many small spots of different colors (most often red, white or pale pink). The flowering itself of the hypoesthesia is tubular, the bracts cover the calyx.

Popular types of hypoesthesia and photos of flowers

Since the leaves of the plant differ in their original color, there are a large number of types of hypoesthesia.



The most popular species is the blood-red hypoestes (Hypoestes sanguinolenta). This species is most often found in Madagascar. In appearance, it is an evergreen shrub that can reach a height of up to half a meter. The leaves are dark green with red specks and purple veins, ovate, slightly wavy. The length of the leaves can reach 8 cm, and the width is 4 cm. The flowering is small, light purple with a white throat.

On the basis of this species, breeders have bred many varieties of hypoesthesia.


A photo. Hypoestes

The most popular varieties are Confetti and Splash, which stretch up to 30 cm in height:

  • Confetti crimson (dark green leaves with pale pink spots)
  • Confetti red (the main part of the leaf is red, green veins are visible in places)
  • Confetti Red wine (dark green leaves with a burgundy tint and many small raspberry spots)
  • Confetti white (the leaves of the plant are the same dark green color as the rest of the varieties, but the spots are white)
  • Splash Pink (pale pink leaves, leaf edge and veins remain green)
  • Splash White (leaves are white with green veins)
  • Splash Red (sheets are covered in equal proportions with red, crimson and green spots)
  • Hypoestes Pink veil (a lot of pink spots of various sizes and shapes are unevenly located on the green surface of the leaf)

Another type of hypoesthesia is the so-called Hypoestes phyllostachya (Hypoestes phyllostachya). Outwardly, this species is somewhat reminiscent of blood red. It grows like other hypoesthesia plants on the island of Madagascar. The main difference of this species can be called soft purple-red leaves. Lavender bloom, solitary.


A photo. Hypoestes leaf grate

An interesting species is Spinous Hypoestes (Hypoestes aristata). Gardeners are attracted by this plant with abundant flowering and its solid size (up to 1 meter in height and up to 60 cm in width). The leaves are of the usual greenish color, slightly lowered. The flowers range from light pink to purple. Spinous hypoesthesia has two varieties: white - with white flowering and blue - with blue or lavender flowers.

Hypoestes plant care at home

In order for your hypoestes to be healthy, you must follow a number of rules for caring for this plant, let's take a closer look at each item.

First steps after purchase

The hypoesthesia plant is quite unpretentious and is perfect for growing in an apartment. After 2 weeks in quarantine, the flower needs to be transplanted into a small pot. Immediately you need to take care of the presence of drainage and fresh soil.


Place the hypoesthesia flower on the east or west windows.

A flowerpot with hypoesthesia is best placed on a window facing east or west. If the plant faces north, the leaves will become faded and the shoots will become very long.

Necessary lighting for the plant

As mentioned earlier, hypoesthesia grows best on the southeast or southwest side, because. on the north side, it quickly fades, and on the south, shading is necessary. The hypoesthesia flower loves bright diffused light, so it is necessary to provide it with a ten-hour daylight hours.

Important! The hypoesthesia plant is quite unpretentious, but for the bright color of the leaves, it just needs bright light. Lack of light will lead to the disappearance of spots on the leaves. In winter, it is recommended to use fluorescent lamps or phytolamps to create artificial lighting.

The optimum temperature for a flower

A comfortable and optimal temperature for a hypoesthesia plant is 21-25 degrees.

The best temperature for hypoesthesia is 21-25 degrees. In extreme heat, it weakens and evaporates moisture abundantly, so you should spray the hypoestes with water as often as possible. In autumn and winter, it is necessary to ensure that the temperature regime is not lower than 17 degrees. Low temperatures threaten hypoesthesia with the fall of all leaves, sometimes even death. At any time of the year, the plant must be protected from drafts, cold air and sudden changes in temperature.

Watering hypoesthesia

At any time of the year, the hypoesthesia plant requires significant watering, because. The flower is native to the tropics. It should be watered as the top layer of the earth dries up, it is unlikely that it will be possible to fill it, but still you should be more careful. Hypoesthesia bay can cause root rot and plant death. In the cold season, the plant is watered every 1-2 days.

It is impossible to allow complete drying of the earth. This will cause the leaves to droop and fall off more.

Air humidity

In order to reproduce the tropical climate so native to the Hypoetset, high humidity must be maintained. The plant needs daily spraying (several times a day in summer). To do this, you should use exclusively separated or filtered water. If it is not possible to moisten the plant so often, you can place the flowerpot in a wide tray filled with moistened sphagnum, moss or expanded clay. In addition, you can put a pot of hypoesthesia near the room humidifier.

Important! A warm shower is very useful for a hypoesthesia plant. It cleans the leaves of dust and nourishes the necessary moisture.

Soil and top dressing


Choose a wide pot for Hypoestes and the soil is loose and slightly acidic.

The pot must be chosen wide enough, medium in size (given the size of the plant itself), with low walls.

The best soil for hypoesthesia is a light, loose and slightly acidic substrate of 2 parts of leafy soil, 1 part of humus or sand and 1 part of peat soil. Such a mixture can be bought at a special store (mixture for variegated indoor plants). In addition, it is imperative to pour drainage to the bottom so that the water does not stagnate.

Hypoestes is fertilized every 3-4 weeks (from spring to autumn). The composition of top dressing should include potassium, it will contribute to the bright color of the leaves. The fertilizer should contain as little nitrogen as possible. too much of it will cause the leaves to fade.

Transplant and pruning

The hypoesthesia plant needs to be transplanted every 2-3 years. For several years, the appearance of the flower worsens, the lower part of the shoots becomes bare. That is why it is necessary to completely replace mature individuals with young plants every 2 years. In order for the bush to have an attractive branched appearance, it is necessary to pinch the shoots. In addition, from time to time it is worth cutting the plant to form a lush crown.

Propagation of a hypoesthesia flower at home


Hypoestes is propagated by seeds and cuttings.

For hypoesthesia, there are two types of reproduction: cuttings and seeds.

Cuttings can be carried out all year round. The size of the cuttings is not important, the main thing is that they have at least 2-3 knots. You can root in water mixed with charcoal, in greenhouses with a substrate at a temperature of 22-24 degrees. Such greenhouses can be built by covering the cuttings with a bag or a glass jar. After rooting, the sprouts are transplanted into pots with a nutrient substrate.

Seeds are best sown in March. They are also placed in greenhouses, sprinkled a little with soil, grown at a temperature of 13-18 degrees. Such greenhouses must be regularly ventilated. After a few months, hypoesthesia shoots from seeds take on the appearance of an adult flower.

Bloom

The flowering of hypoesthesia manifests itself in the form of white or pink bells. Blooms very quickly. Flowering crumbles, creating a lot of debris around. After flowering, the plant stretches, the leaves become smaller. Most often, flower growers cut the arrow as soon as they see that the plant is about to bloom.

Pests and diseases

Hypoestes is practically not affected by pests. The most harmful to him are aphids, mealybugs or spider mites. The plant is disease resistant.

Important! Plant hygiene must be taken very seriously. If the hypoesthesia has bloomed, it is simply necessary to cut off the faded flower arrows in time. You need to constantly remove fallen dried leaves so that they do not rot.

Watch the video material on this interesting indoor plant.

Possible problems when growing a hypoesthesia flower

The main difficulty in growing hypoesthesia is the need to constantly maintain optimal conditions. It is necessary to clearly control several issues: the amount of light falling on the flower, the volume and frequency of watering, care and fertilizer, transplanting and pruning.

Only improper care can lead to diseases of the hypoesthesia plant:

  • due to too abundant watering, the leaves turn yellow and wither
  • due to dry air, the leaves dry and wrinkle
  • due to an excess of nitrogen in the fertilizer, the leaves lighten
  • due to lack of light, the leaves become monochromatic
  • due to sunburn, brown spots appear on the leaves
  • due to drafts and cold air, the leaves fall off.

Coconut palm It is considered a symbol of fertility in many cultures. Grow homemade coconut you can do it yourself from a freshly picked walnut. Of course, you will not get a real coconut palm, since in nature the plant reaches a height of 25-30 meters, has a long trunk and large pinnate leaves 2-4 meters long at the top.

In a room, a coconut palm sprout can reach a height of 2-2.5 meters. At home, the coconut palm can grow for two to three years while the plant uses the nutrients inside the nut.

Coconut palm is an interesting and original plant, often used for interior decoration. A long sprout rises to the side of the nut, from which it opens into spectacular fan leaves. Watching the growth of this palm tree is very interesting.

17 but I 2014

IN flora there are real curiosities, many exotic lovers want to learn how to grow these original plants at home. Very interesting plant nepenthes, also has the popular name "pitcher", because jugs hang from the ends of its leaves, which are a continuation of the leaves of the plant.

Nepenthes refers to insectivorous plants, a digestive enzyme is formed in its jugs, insects lured by the aroma and fallen into the jug are digested and provide the plant with the missing nutrients. The fact is that in nature, nepenthes grow on very poor soils, where there are not enough minerals, and having adapted to eat insects, these plants receive the macro and microelements necessary for development.

09 but I 2014

Indoor fern Dawalia highly valued as an ornamental leafy plant, in addition, it has an interesting feature - shaggy long rhizomes hanging from the edge of the pot. It seems that the paws of the fern are growing, which is why many people call this fern “hare paws”. In tropical forests, these ferns grow as epiphytes on tree trunks, twining them with long hairy rhizomes.

Ferns perfectly plant and decorate the interior, their openwork foliage looks very elegant and can serve as a backdrop for others. flowering plants. These homemade ferns look best in hanging baskets, where their rhizomes will hang over the edge of the pot, resembling a spider's paws. Epiphytic ferns from the genus Dawalia can be grown like most orchids, planted in a hanging piece of bark or in a coconut shell.

Fern genus Davalia (Davallia includes about 50 species, but only a few species are grown as houseplants, listed below.

04 but I 2014

strelitzia flower rarely grown indoors, as the plant reaches a height of 1-1.5 meters. This large tub plant is suitable for large spacious rooms and greenhouses, it will look great in the garden in summer.

Strelitzia has a very unusual flowers original shape and bright color. Because of the upward protruding orange petals coming out of a horizontally located bract, the flower resembles an exotic bird perched on lush greenery and spread its bright tail, which is why this flower is often called "bird of paradise".

strelitzia flowering long, under favorable conditions from spring to autumn, and each flower retains its decorative effect for about two weeks. Strelitzia flowers do not smell, but are rich in nectar, which attracts many insects for pollination.

28 oct 2014

pineapples in Russia they began to grow it back in the 18th century, then in rich noble estates they built winter greenhouses or greenhouses, which they called "pineapples". At that time, it was fashionable to serve this delicious overseas fruit to the table. Pineapples were pickled, fermented, used in cooking. Later, by the beginning of the 19th century, pineapples began to be imported to Russia from tropical countries and it became unprofitable to grow them.

Now pineapples are grown for import sales in tropical Asian countries, in Thailand and Brazil. So that pineapples do not deteriorate during transportation, they are cut off not yet ripe, at this time the pulp of the fruit contains enzymes that can break down proteins and fats, so when you eat them, you can feel a tingling sensation in your mouth. Fully ripened fruits lose the corrosive enzyme, but they are stored for no more than a week in cool conditions.

How indoor plant pineapple many grow just for the sake of experiment, for this it is not necessary to buy this plant in special stores, it is enough to buy the fruit itself and cut off its top with a green tuft. Pineapple is a unique plant that reproduces well by root, stem cuttings and even through the cut top of the fruit. Having rooted a pineapple, the plant will develop for 3-4 years and bloom under favorable conditions, and after that you will get your own pineapple on the windowsill, of course, for this to happen, you must follow the recommendations for caring for this plant.

24 oct 2014

Anyone who likes to drink invigorating aromatic coffee in the morning will surely like it. grow at home home coffee tree. This is a tropical plant in the form of an evergreen shrub or tree reaching a height of 5-7 meters in nature, and at home, a coffee tree can grow up to 2 meters in height.

For the first time coffee was discovered in Ethiopia, the shepherds noticed that after chewing the leaves of the coffee tree, goats become very excited. After tasting the leaves, people were convinced that this plant has an invigorating effect on the human body. All parts of the coffee tree contain caffeine, a substance that stimulates the body, but most of all caffeine is found in the grains of the fruit, which, when roasted, acquire a beautiful color and original coffee aroma.

20 oct 2014

Houseplant dizigoteka attracts attention with original complex-fingered long leaves with an expressive serrated edge. Dizigoteka grows like a shrub with several thin trunks and many twigs. Narrow long leaves with a carved edge create an openwork cloud around thin shoots. Due to slow growth over several years, the plant rarely exceeds a height of 1.8 meters. This indoor plant is very decorative and will decorate any corner of the apartment.

In nature, dizigoteka grows as a small evergreen shrub in the rainforests of Polynesia and Asia. Disigoteka belongs to the Araliyev family, so this plant is also called areca. Genus Disigoteka (dizygotheca) consists of 17 species of evergreen shrubs and small trees.

13 oct 2014

Muraya - an exotic houseplant in the form of a small tree with bright green foliage, white flowers and red small fruits, it is valued by flower growers not only for its attractive appearance, but also for the medicinal properties of this plant. In muraya, both leaves, and roots, and flowers are healing, they are used to prepare decoctions and infusions, and the fruits can be eaten fresh, candied or dried.

Even more than 400 years ago, in Japan, a drink was prepared from the muraya plant for emperors, which was called the "elixir of life." In the east, this plant is called "Tibetan ginseng", as it has the ability to strengthen human immunity, helps to cope with diseases of the cardiovascular system, normalizes the thyroid gland, serves as a prevention of cancer, tones and delays aging. It is recommended to eat 3-4 muraya fruits per day.

04 oct 2014

The beauty of many tropical houseplants lies in their showy, patterned leaves. Ktenanta - indoor plant from the decorative leafy group, belongs to the arrowroot family and is a close relative of calathea, arrowroot and stromante. Ktenantu is often confused with her relative Calathea, since according to appearance, these plants are similar. Distinctive feature ktenanty is a pattern on the leaves - dark green crescent-shaped stripes extend from the central vein of the leaf.

01 oct 2014

indoor lemon became a very popular house plant for last years. beautiful shape trees with a dense crown of green leaves, snow-white fragrant flowers and large fruits make the plant very attractive. In addition, the process of growing and ripening lemons is very exciting to follow with the whole family. Ripe bright yellow lemons can remain on the tree for a long time, while they do not deteriorate and decorate the plant, and if guests suddenly come, they can be treated to tea with a lemon grown on the windowsill.

Houseplant lovers often purchase lemon seedlings or grow them from seeds, but in order to get a beautiful fruit-bearing plant, you must follow a number of rules for the care and maintenance of the plant. Mistakes when growing a lemon can lead to a sharp yellowing and falling of the leaves, dropping the ovary, lack of flowering and even death of the plant.

The most unpretentious plants

If you don't have flowers indoors because you don't have the time or experience to take care of them, choose hardy plants to suit your taste; believe me - there are more than enough of them.

Philodendron

The heart-shaped philodendron is a strong ornamental plant, for for long years which is the most popular in indoor gardening. It has heart-shaped leaves and adapts well to low light. Philodendron weaves very beautifully along the edges of bookshelves or other furniture.
Pros: Tied to a moss tube or root plate, the philodendron takes on the shape of a green tower.
Name: Philodendron hederaceum oxycardium
Size: 2-3 m long creeping or tied plant
Important: All parts of this plant are highly poisonous and can cause irritation to the lips, tongue or throat if children or animals chew its leaves.


Mother-in-law language

This unpretentious flower It does not require special care. It is ideal for beginner gardeners who have only dealt with artificial plastic plants. All varieties of mother-in-law's tongue tolerate the lack of light well, but still prefer bright lighting. Do not water this plant too much or root rot may occur.
Pros: The plant is very unpretentious and has beautiful, xiphoid leaves.
Name: Sansevieria trifasciata "Laurentia"
Growing Conditions: Low to bright light; temperature 15-26 C; let the soil dry out between waterings.
Size: up to 1.2 m in length and width
Important: May cause irritation on sensitive skin.


corn palm

Do not confuse it with a vegetable with a similar name. This beautiful plant has bright straight leaves that seem to stretch into a palm tree. Plant several corn palms in one large container for a spectacular interior design.
Pros: Colorful yellow-green striped leaves on a straight stem.
Name: Dracaena fragrans "Massangeana"

Important: Poisonous to dogs.


English ivy

In most cases, English ivy is known as a creeping plant. For a decorative effect, place a pot of ivy on the edge of a fireplace or on a bookshelf with its stems hanging down. Try trimming the plant to give it shape. English ivy is very easy to propagate: it is enough to cut off a 10-centimeter piece of the stem, tear off the leaves from below and plant it in moist soil. If you remember to water the seedling, it will take root in a few weeks.
Little tip: The plant is often damaged by the red mite. To scare it away, periodically rinse the ivy in the shower or in a bath at room temperature.
Pros: This is a hardy climbing plant with dark green variegated leaves.
Title: Hedera helix
Growing conditions: Medium or bright light, temperature 12-23 C, uniform watering.
Size: 1.8 m long creeping or tied plant
Important: All parts of English ivy are poisonous, so make sure children and animals do not chew it.


Peperomia

Peperomia is a group of diverse small houseplants with waxy leaves. Peperomia with red edges has wide creamy leaves. Wavy peperomia, watermelon peperomia, baby doll peperomia and silverleaf peperomia are well known.
Pros: Peperomia's waxy, colorful leaves fill the room with color and the plant itself doesn't take up much space.
Name: Peperomia spp.
Growing Conditions: Medium to bright light, 15-23C, let soil dry out between waterings
Size: Up to 30 cm in height and width.
Important: The plant is poisonous to dogs and cats.


This plant, like its name, is very impressive. It has tufts of long, narrow, dark green leaves and red woody gray stems along the edges. The Tricolor variety is distinguished by pinkish-cream edges on the leaves, which is why it is also called the rainbow plant.
Pros: Herbaceous leaves on tall stems give the dracaena a festive look.
Name: Dracaena marginata.
Growing Conditions: Medium to bright light, 18-23C, let soil dry out between waterings
Size: Up to 3 m long and 0.6 m wide.
Important: The plant is poisonous to dogs.


Ficus (rubber tree)

The old-fashioned classic plant gets its second name from the sticky, milky juice it releases when cut. It grows quite tall, but by trimming the long stems, you can control its growth and even turn the rubber tree into a bush.
Pros: Large dark green ficus leaves are very pretty. The older the ficus, the larger its leaves. This creates a wonderful decorative effect.
Name: Ficus elastica
Growing Conditions: Medium to bright light, 15-26C, let soil dry out between waterings
Size: Up to 2.4 m high and 1.2 m wide.
Important: Ficus juice can cause irritation on sensitive skin.


This shrub tolerates twilight, but its leaves become the most bright color with good lighting. They cast gold, pink and orange hues in the sun. Rinse croton leaves from time to time to keep them looking radiant.
Pros: Strong leaves of beautiful shades.
Name: Codiaeum variegatum pictum.
Size: Up to 1.2 m high and 0.9 m wide.
Important: This plant is poisonous, therefore dangerous for children and animals.


Syngonium

One of the most common and unpretentious indoor plants, syngonium has arrow-shaped leaves of a pronounced shape (hence another of its names - arrow-shaped syngonium). Unlike many other plants, syngonium has a lot of species and varieties. Most of them are distinguished by bright leaves. Depending on the species, the leaves may be green with white markings or bronze green with a pink tinge. Young plants begin to curl over time, so take care of an artificial trunk or hanging planter for them.
Pros: Colorful leaves allow you to brightly decorate every corner of your home.
Name: Syngonium podophyllum
Growing conditions: Low or bright lighting, temperature 15-23 C, uniform watering.


jade tree

If you constantly forget to water your plants, the jade tree seems to be made for you. It goes well with cacti. The jade tree prefers room temperature during its growing season, but it will grow best if you keep it cool and give it enough moisture to keep its leaves from drying out in the winter.
Pros: An unpretentious tree plant with interesting twisted branches and fleshy leaves.
Name: Crassula ovata.
Growing Conditions: Bright light, 18-23 C (12 C in winter), keep soil dry
Size: Up to 3 m high and 0.6 m wide


Goya, or wax tree, is distinguished by waxy leaves and waxy-scented pink flowers. Golden goya has cream-colored leaves. Goya can curl, form a topiary, or just look good in a flowerpot.
Pros: Goya beautiful flowers(often with a pronounced aroma). This is not a very water-loving plant, so do not be discouraged if you suddenly forget to water it.
Name: Hoya carnosa
Growing Conditions: Medium to bright light, 12-23°C, let soil dry out between waterings
Size: Can curl up to 1.2 m in length.


norfolk pine

The secret to the health of the Norfolk pine is rich light and moisture. In low light, the lower tiers of leaves may turn yellow and fall off. When the room is dry, the plant becomes a tasty morsel for red mites.
Pros: Perfect tree for Christmas or any other holiday. In addition, it brings a unique cozy atmosphere to the house.
Name: Araucaria heterophylla.
Growing conditions: Bright light, temperature 15-23 C, let the soil dry out between waterings.
Size: Up to 3 m high and 1.5 m wide


Scindapsus

This hardy climbing plant, also known as pothos or devil's ivy, is often confused with the heart-leaved philodendron. Like the philadendron, pothos has heart-shaped leaves and can be grown in a pot on a tabletop, in a hanging basket, or tied to an artificial trunk. This plant does not require a lot of light, but the more it is, the more colorful the leaves will be.
Pros: Devil ivy is one of the most practical houseplants. It looks great in a hanging basket.
Name: Epipremnum aureum "Marble Queen"
Growing Conditions: Away from direct sunlight; temperature 18-23 C; the soil is relatively dry.
Size: creeping plant 2-3 meters long.
Important: All parts of this plant are poisonous and may irritate the lips, tongue or throat if children or animals chew the leaves.


boston fern

The lacy, arrow-shaped leaves of the Boston fern make it an ideal plant for planting in a pot or planter. However, don't let this delicate-looking plant fool you: it can grow for decades if you remember to water it and keep it in a medium-light, medium-humidity environment. Variety "Dallas" is more unpretentious to dry air.
Pros: Boston fern creates a classic look in any space. It goes well with country or rustic style.
Name: Nephrolepis exaltata
Size: Up to 1.2 m in height (length).


green dracaena

Some varieties of green dracaena, such as "Janet Craig", are distinguished by strong green leaves. Others have white, cream, gold, or yellowish green stripes on the leaves. All varieties have rosettes at the beginning of growth, but then become upright growing green plants. They normally tolerate poor lighting, but the leaves take on a richer color in medium to bright light.
Pros: durable unpretentious plant from beautiful leaves.
Name: Dracaena deremensis.
Size: Up to 3 m high and 0.9 m wide.
Important: This plant is poisonous to dogs.


Chlorophytum

Surely you remember how your grandmother grew this plant; chlorophytums were and remain very popular. Just look at the number of their varieties - from species with simple green leaves to decorated with cream or white stripes.
Pros: Growing chlorophytum does not require much hassle.
Name: Chlorophytum comosum
Growing conditions: Medium or bright lighting, temperature 15-23 C, uniform watering.
Size: Up to 30 cm long and 60 cm wide.


Zamioculcas

It is also called an eternal plant, because Zamioculcas is durable, does not require much light and care. The petioles of the leaves of this plant are so thick that you can mistake them for plastic ones. Zamioculcas grows slowly, so buy it already large. Cut stems stay green and healthy looking for weeks, even without water.
Pros: This plant is so unpretentious that you still have to try to get rid of it.
Name: Zamioculcas zamiifolia
Growing Conditions: Low to bright light, 15-23 C, let the soil dry out between waterings.
Size: 0.6-0.9 m long and wide.
Important: This plant is poisonous, so make sure that children and animals do not chew it.


grape ivy

"Ellen Danica" - a variety of grape ivy - is also called oakleaf, because its leaves are more prominent than those of other varieties of this plant. Grape ivy is a climbing plant, the shoots of which willingly master a lattice or pole.
Pros: This is a great plant for neat hanging baskets.
Name: Cissus rhombifolia
Growing conditions: Average lighting, temperature 15-26 C, uniform watering.
Size: Up to 1.8 m long climbing plant.


Aspidistra (cast iron plant)

One of the most hardy plants, aspidistra can withstand lack of care, light, humidity and a wide range of temperatures. It grows slowly, so buy a large plant already.
Pros: This plant really lives up to its name. It is very durable.
Name: Aspidistra elatior.
Growing conditions: Little light, temperature 7-29 C, keep the soil well moist during active growth, lightly moisten the soil in autumn and winter.
Size: Up to 60 cm long and wide.


Also known as the "umbrella tree", this plant has "glossy" green leaves that "spread" in different directions and resemble the spokes of an umbrella. A close relative of sheflera - dwarf sheflera - has shorter and smaller leaves. Both plants are sometimes classified as Brassaia species.
Pros: Chefler's bright green leaves create an instant tropical vibe.
Name: Schefflera actinophylla
Growing conditions: Medium to bright light, temperature 15-23 C, evenly moisten the soil.
Size: Up to 2.4 m high and 1.8 m wide.


Chinese evergreen aglaonema

A plant with beautiful leaves in silver, gray and green hues that will brighten up the dark places in your home beautifully. Use aglaonema as a neighbor to upright tree houseplants or set a pot with it separately.
Pros: Very hardy plant.
Name: Aglaonema commutatum.
Growing Conditions: Low to medium light, 15-23°C, keep the soil evenly moist.
Size: Up to 0.9 m in length and width.
Important: All parts of this plant are poisonous and may cause irritation to the lips, tongue or throat if children or animals chew its leaves.


Ficus lyre

Ficus lyre is a wonderful tree that got its name from the dark green leaves in the shape of a lyre. It tolerates poor lighting well, although this may cause the lower leaves to fall off. If your ficus lyre is too tall, don't be afraid to prune it to the desired height, or cut off the shoots and plant them separately.
Name: Ficus lyrata
Growing Conditions: Medium to bright light, 18-23 C, let the soil dry out between waterings.
Size: Up to 4.5 m high and 1.5 m wide.


dieffenbachia

There are several varieties of dieffenbachia. All of them are upright plants with white-green leaves. Grow one dieffenbachia as a tree, or grow several plants together to make a bush. One of the names of dieffenbachia, "mute rod", comes from the toxic sap of the plant, which seems to cause numbness in the mouth and throat.
Pros: Dieffenbachia's large white-green leaves add a tropical look to any space. It is great for decorating balconies and loggias in the summer.
Name: Dieffenbachia spp.
Growing Conditions: Low to medium light, temperature 15-26 C, evenly moisten the soil
Size: Up to 1.8 m high and 0.9 m wide.
Important: All parts of this plant are poisonous and may cause irritation to the lips, tongue or throat if children or animals chew its leaves.
Plants for forgetful gardeners who forget to water.

Dracaena. Dracaena deremensis 'Lemon Lime'


Kalanchoe. Kalanchoe blossfeldiana. Prefers bright light.


Haworthia fasciata (Striped Haworthia)


Palm ponytail. Beaucarnea recurvata


Cactus Rabbit ears. Opuntia microdasys. Prefers bright light


Zamioculcas. Zamioculcas zamiifolia

Panda plant. Kalanchoe tomentosa. Prefers bright light


Euphorbia Mil, Euphorbia beautiful (lat. Euphorbia milii)


Donkey tail. Stonecrop Morgan (Sedum morganianum) Prefers bright light, originally from Mexico


Crassula atropurpurea


Beef tongue. Gasteria bicolor. Prefers bright light


golden barrel cactus (Echinocactus grusonii). Prefers bright light



Peperomia griseoargentea


Sago palm. Cycas, cycad (Cycas revoluta)

Fittonia is a delightful perennial ornamental plant that makes a great addition to any space. Fittonia stems are thin, brown, very dense and flexible. The leaves are oval-shaped, green, decorated with white, pink or red veins. Bright veins set off the leaves of the indoor flower, giving it an exotic look.

A herbaceous plant native to South America, belongs to the acanthus family. Fittonia flowers are small, yellowish, collected in spike-shaped inflorescence.

Initially, Fittonia was grown in greenhouses and winter gardens, since it usually died at home. To date, plant varieties have been bred that are not so picky about air humidity and temperature and grow well at home.

The main types of Fittonia and photographs of these species

To date, flower growers have been able to bring out several types of phytonia that can be grown in an apartment. The genus Fittonia consists of four species of perennial herbaceous plants with beautiful leaves of various green, pink, white, purple hues. Red Fittonia looks especially unusual and exotic, the veins on the leaves of which make up an intense, beautiful pattern.



This type of plant is characterized by the presence of beautiful large dark green leaves with a pattern of white, red and pink veins. The stems of Fittonia Verschaffelt are strongly branched, with creeping shoots.

A low-growing plant with a height of no more than 25 cm loves high humidity and a warm environment for keeping. Great for creating flower arrangements.


This species got its name because of its color and leaf structure.

A houseplant of this species is very beautiful and elegant, with creeping shoots. Small, velvety, matte leaves of fittonia skeleton are decorated with a dense network of red veins. The leaves are a rich olive color, their color is so intense that it creates a luminous effect.

low perennial, the main decoration of which are leaves. In this form, several varieties of plants are collected, which are planted together.

The color of Fittonia mix leaves varies from light to dark green shades, with multi-colored bright veins. Such a plant looks great on the windowsill due to the variety of colors.

Caring for an indoor fittonia flower at home


Remember that the temperature should not fall below +18 degrees, otherwise Fittonia will start shedding leaves.

Subject to the recommendations of experts, home care for Fittonia is not particularly difficult. Due to its decorative qualities and relative unpretentiousness, this plant is very popular with flower growers.

Optimum temperature

Fittonia is a heat-loving plant, so the optimum air temperature for growing in summer should be at least 22 - 25 degrees, in winter - within 20 . If the temperature is below 18 degrees, Fittonia drops its leaves. This houseplant does not tolerate drafts, a sharp drop in air temperature. Therefore, Fittonia is not recommended even in summer to be taken out to the balcony. In winter, the plant should not be placed near heaters.

Fittonia lighting

Like many indoor plants, Fittonia loves bright rooms. It is not recommended to place the plant in sunny windows with south side. Fittonia may die under direct sunlight. It is best placed on the eastern and western window sills. The plant tolerates a little shade well. In winter, in the event of a lack of lighting, Fittonia leaves lose their beautiful color. Therefore, in winter, it is recommended to increase the daylight hours for the plant with the help of special lamps.

Air humidity


Phytonia is not only a heat-loving plant, but it also loves high humidity.

When caring for Fittonia, it should be remembered that she loves high humidity very much. It is desirable to spray the plant throughout the year, using settled or filtered water. If the air in the room is dry, Fittonia is recommended to be sprayed twice a day. To increase the humidity pot with indoor flower can be substituted on a pallet with expanded clay or pebbles. It is strictly forbidden to use means for polishing leaves..

Watering Fittonia

From the beginning of spring to autumn, Fittonia should be plentifully and regularly watered with warm settled water. In late autumn and winter, watering is gradually reduced. However, the dryness of the earthy coma should not be allowed, because even with a one-time drying of the root part, the leaves of Fittonia fall off. The plant intensively evaporates water with leaves, as a result of which moisture from the soil evaporates very quickly. The soil in the pot should always be slightly damp, but water stagnation should not be allowed, as excess moisture leads to decay of the plant's root system.

Soil composition and fertilizer

The soil for the growth of fittonia should consist of a mixture of humus earth, peat and sand. Considering that the root system of the plant is superficial, it is recommended to use shallow, but wide pots and containers, on the bottom of which drainage is necessarily installed.

From April to September, during the active growing season of Fittonia, it must be regularly fed with mineral fertilizers. However, since the plant is very sensitive to excess fertilizer, its concentration must be reduced by half from the usual dose indicated on the package.

Rejuvenation


Every year in the spring, Fittonia must be transplanted.

Approximately every three to four years, Fittonia needs to be rejuvenated. This is determined as the lower part of the shoots is exposed. To rejuvenate the plants, the most elongated branches are cut off, which are rooted in the ground under glass. Also, rejuvenation is carried out by splitting off the upper shoots of the plant and rooting them. After that, Fittonia after a while throws out new side shoots.

Fittonia grows very quickly, so in the spring it needs to be transplanted into a larger pot or container. Young plants are recommended to be transplanted annually.

How to propagate fittonia

Reproduction of Fittonia is carried out by apical cuttings. Cuttings from shoots are planted in moist soil, regularly sprayed and watered. After rooting, the cuttings are transplanted to a permanent place in the soil, which consists of a mixture of earth, peat, humus and sand. The plant is also propagated by dividing the bush during transplantation or by seeds. In spring, the seeds are planted in a container with soil, which is constantly kept moist at a temperature of at least 22 degrees.

Plant diseases, pests and their control


In the photo, a diseased houseplant Fittonia

The main pests of Fittonia are scale insects, spider mites. Scale insects are located on the surface of leaves and stems in the form of brown plaques. They suck out the cell sap of the plant, causing the leaves to lose their color and dry. To combat this pest, the leaves are wiped with a soapy solution, and then sprayed with a 0.15% actellik solution.

When phytonia is infected with a red spider mite, inconspicuous whitish spots form on the leaves, a cobweb can be seen under the leaves of the plant. Dry air in the apartment contributes to the defeat of the plant by the mite. Spraying leaves and stems with derris, fitoverm, fufan will help get rid of this pest.

The main signs and causes of Fittonia disease:

  • The tips of the leaves are dry and brown. The reason is too dry air in the room.
  • The leaves of the plant are yellow-brown with an excess or lack of nutrients contained in the soil.
  • The leaves curl up, become stained with insufficient watering.
  • Sluggish, rotting stems of the plant - the temperature is below 18 degrees with high humidity.
  • Leaf drop is observed in a plant with too dry air or excessive watering.
  • Fittonia leaves lose color, become thin, dry out. The reason is intense sunlight.

An exotic look to any room will be given by indoor plants in an aquarium of a round or rectangular shape. Fittonia is perfect for placement in an aquarium, since the root part of the plant perfectly tolerates being in damp soil and high humidity. The upper part of the plant is in the air, which is also sufficiently moistened.

You can also familiarize yourself with the video material on the indoor plant Fittonia, we wish you a pleasant viewing.