These trending houseplants will dominate 2024
Houseplant sales have rocketed over the last few years following a boom in plant parents during the pandemic. Bringing the outdoors in, all while adding interest and texture to our interiors, shows no signs of waning. But it’s not just about the aesthetics: the benefits of indoor plants are well-known, from improving air quality and circulation, to supporting better wellbeing and mental health.
So what’s on the horizon for 2024? This year’s houseplant trends will have us buying more locally grown plants while still being on the lookout for something special and rare. We’ll see some fan favourites continuing to steal the show (anthuriums, alocasias and fiddle leaf figs are among the most popular houseplants for 2024) but we’ll also find some less common plants appearing in everyone’s windows this year.
Whether you're a new plant parent or a horticultural enthusiast, here are the biggest houseplant trends for 2024.
Indoor jungle
'The biggest houseplant trend for 2024 is going to be the continuation of the jungle look which started in 2023,' says Angela Slater of Hayes Garden World. 'Recreating a jungle by grouping a lot of large specimen plants together will form part of the home's décor by providing a focal point.
'Large-leaved plants such as maranta, calathea, alocasia, Swiss cheese plant, and tall palms are going to form the basis of the jungle look with gaps, infilled by smaller specimens.'
And, it's a trend that lends itself particularly well to balconies, too. 'Apartments with balconies are going to particularly embrace this look, especially if they are south-facing, by creating a cool shady spot to chill out with a cocktail,' adds Angela.
Biophilic Design
Biophilic design consists of a set of principles that aim to improve our connection with nature as a way to reduce stress. An easy way to bring biophilic design into your home is through houseplants, whether it's trailing plants hanging from the ceiling or a herb garden on the kitchen windowsill.
'Biophilic design is not just a trend; it's a lifestyle change we're embracing in 2024. Integrating nature into our living spaces, whether through wall-mounted plants or lush indoor gardens, is transforming the way we interact with our environment,' says Beth.
• Shop indoor plants and pots at Leaf Envy
Textures and Patterns
Choosing unique plants with textured leaves will become a focus in 2024. ‘The Alocasia family, with its diverse varieties like Frydek, Black Velvet, Silver Dragon, Zebrina, and Clarinervium, is capturing the imagination of plant lovers,’ says Beth Chapman, founder of Leaf Envy, an online plant shop. ‘Their graphical leaves, ranging from striking patterns to bold textures, are turning homes into natural art galleries.'
Starter Plants will Reign Supreme
Instead of opting for plants that may require at least a little bit of a green thumb, succulents and cacti are easy to care for and look great just about anywhere, whether that’s on your desk at work or on a shelf in your home.
'Houseplant sales have boomed in recent years and this is going to continue with novice plant keepers benefitting from the inclusion of nature in their everyday lives. Succulents and cacti are the ultimate starter plants, almost impossible to kill,' says Angela.
Rare and Unusual
One trend we know isn’t going away is the desire for rare plants. ‘In 2024, the quest for rare and unusual houseplants continues to captivate plant collectors, always on the lookout for new and exotic species,' says Beth.
These rare and new species provide plant enthusiasts with 'not just plants, but unique and intriguing living art pieces that spark conversation and bring a sense of discovery' into our living spaces.
The Quiet Luxury Effect
So, 'rare' might be in, but traditional houseplants aren't going anywhere. For those who are not as fascinated by unique species, the gorgeous, structural evergreens that we all know and love will continue to be staples in the home.
'The last few years people have been seeking out and splashing the cash for the philodendron pink princess’s and variegated cheese plants of the plant world. I think we will be stripping this back and almost joining the quiet luxury trend of the plant world and sticking to the classics – your faithful Monstera Delicosa, fiddle leaf figs and pothos,' says Emma Sibley, founder and director of London Terrariums.
More Flowers Please
Flowering plants can elevate an interior in an instant, providing a lovely burst of colour, even if only for a short period. Guess what's trending for 2024?
‘Anthuriums are making a significant comeback this year with their vivid flowers and lush foliage,' reveals Beth. ‘They're becoming a symbol of sophistication in home decor, reflecting a broader trend of incorporating flowering plants to create vibrant, living spaces.’
Go Vertical
There’s always room for more plants, even in small spaces – you just need to get creative. Style plants on a floating wall shelf and don’t forget the ceiling either. 'Attaching a trellis to the ceiling rather than individual hooks will provide a much more versatile hanging surface,’ says Angela. Hoya, spider plants, and philodendron are good varieties to try here.
We'd also recommend using curtain rods that can be added to alcoves in your home. Opt for a tension rod so you don’t have to drill into the wall, which makes it a renter-friendly option too. Hang lots of pretty trailing plants and really take advantage of vertical space.
British-grown
Sustainability remains high on the agenda as we look to reduce our waste in 2024 and beyond, with a focus on purchasing British-grown plants and using peat-free soil.
‘2024 marks a pivotal year in embracing peat-free, British-grown houseplants,’ says Beth. ‘This eco-friendly shift not only supports local growers but also reflects a deeper environmental responsibility among plant enthusiasts.’
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