Do you ever feel like your living room is missing something, but you can’t quite put your finger on it?
The space might be tidy and nicely decorated, but it still feels a bit flat or lifeless. One of the easiest (and most effective) ways to fix this is by adding a large houseplant. The right plant can completely change the feel of a room. It softens hard edges, adds height and colour, and even helps improve air quality.
In this post, we’re going to look at the best large houseplants for your living room—from bold statement plants to low-maintenance options—so you can find the perfect one for your space.
Choosing the right plant
If you’re looking for the right plant for your living room, there are a few things to think about.
The size of your space is important. In a larger room, a tall plant like a fiddle-leaf fig, kentia palm, or bird of paradise can help fill empty corners and add height to the room. If your space is smaller, a rubber tree or monstera deliciosa gives you that big plant feel without taking over.
Think about the shape and colour of the leaves, plants with dark green or glossy leaves can make your room feel rich and calm, while more patterned or colourful leaves add a bit of interest.
It’s also worth looking at how much light your living room gets. If you’ve got a south-facing window or a bright spot, there are loads of options. If your room is a little darker, go for something that can handle low light, like a ZZ plant or a cast iron plant.
Make sure to choose a pot that works with your style too. It’s not just about the plant, it’s part of the decor. And most importantly, pick something you know you can take care of. There’s no better way to brighten up your living room than with a healthy, happy plant.
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
- Why It’s Great: Also called the “Mother-in-Law’s Tongue,” the snake plant is sleek and modern, with tall, upright leaves. It’s virtually indestructible and thrives on neglect.
- Care Tips:
- Can handle low light but thrives in bright, indirect light.
- Let the soil dry completely between waterings. Overwatering is the only way to kill it!
- It’s drought-tolerant, making it perfect for busy households.
2. Kentia Palm (Howea forsteriana)
- Why It’s Great: This elegant palm brings a beachy vibe to your living room with its feathery fronds.
- Care Tips:
- Prefers bright, indirect light but tolerates lower light.
- Water when the topsoil dries out. Avoid letting it sit in soggy soil.
- It’s low-maintenance and adapts well to indoor conditions.
3. Swiss Cheese Plant (Monstera deliciosa)
- Why It’s Great: With its large, holey leaves, this tropical plant creates an instant wow factor.
- Care Tips:
- Thrives in bright, indirect light but tolerates moderate light.
- Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Loves humidity—mist it occasionally for best results.
4. Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia nicolai)
- Why It’s Great: This plant’s large, banana-like leaves give your living room a bold, tropical flair.
- Care Tips:
- Needs bright light, and some direct sunlight is great for it.
- Water regularly, keeping the soil slightly moist.
- Benefits from high humidity, so misting is a good idea.
5. Fiddle-Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)
- Why It’s Great: Known for its dramatic, violin-shaped leaves, the fiddle-leaf fig makes a stunning statement.
- Care Tips:
- Prefers bright, indirect light. It’s picky, so avoid drafts or sudden changes in environment.
- Water when the topsoil feels dry, but don’t let it sit in water.
- Rotate it regularly for even growth.
6. Corn Plant (Dracaena fragrans)
- Why It’s Great: Its tall, tree-like structure and striped leaves make it a standout in any room.
- Care Tips:
- Low to bright, indirect light is fine.
- Water when the soil feels dry to the touch.
- It’s very forgiving, making it great for beginners.
7. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
- Why It’s Great: With its glossy, deep green leaves, the rubber plant adds a sophisticated touch.
- Care Tips:
- Thrives in bright, indirect light but tolerates lower light.
- Let the soil dry slightly between waterings.
- Clean the leaves to keep them looking shiny and healthy.
8. Money Tree (Pachira aquatica)
- Why It’s Great: Said to bring good fortune, the money tree has braided trunks and shiny green leaves.
- Care Tips:
- Loves bright, indirect light but tolerates lower light levels.
- Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
- It thrives in humid environments, so mist it if the air is dry.
9. Devil’s Ivy (Epipremnum aureum)
- Why It’s Great: This trailing plant grows beautifully in hanging pots or climbing up a trellis.
- Care Tips:
- Does well in almost any light condition, from low to bright indirect light.
- Water when the soil feels dry.
- It’s nearly impossible to kill, making it perfect for any plant lover.
10. Croton (Codiaeum variegatum)
- Why It’s Great: Its brightly colored leaves (reds, yellows, oranges, and greens) add a pop of color to your living room.
- Care Tips:
- Needs bright, indirect light to maintain its vibrant colors.
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
- Loves humidity—misting can help prevent leaf drop.
11. Fishtail Palm (Caryota mitis)
- Why It’s Great: Named for its unique fishtail-shaped fronds, this palm is a striking and uncommon choice.
- Care Tips:
- Prefers bright, indirect light.
- Water when the topsoil feels dry, but don’t let it completely dry out.
- It loves humidity, so keep it in a well-moisturized environment.
12. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)
- Why It’s Great: Its elegant, slender stalks make it a subtle yet sophisticated addition.
- Care Tips:
- Low to bright, indirect light works well.
- Water when the soil feels dry to the touch.
- It’s low-maintenance and forgiving.
13. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
- Why It’s Great: This hardy plant thrives on neglect and is perfect for beginners.
- Care Tips:
- Can handle low to bright light but avoid direct sunlight.
- Let the soil dry completely between waterings.
- It’s drought-tolerant and nearly indestructible.
14. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
- Why It’s Great: True to its name, this plant is extremely tough and can thrive in low-light areas.
- Care Tips:
- Prefers low to moderate light.
- Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- It’s slow-growing but very reliable.
15. Coconut Palm Tree (Cocos nucifera)
- Why It’s Great: Its tropical vibe instantly transports you to the beach.
- Care Tips:
- Needs bright, indirect light or direct sun.
- Keep the soil moist but avoid overwatering.
- Loves warm, humid environments.
16. Stromanthe Triostar (Stromanthe sanguinea)
- Why It’s Great: Its pink, green, and white variegated leaves make it a living work of art.
- Care Tips:
- Thrives in bright, indirect light.
- Water consistently to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
- Loves high humidity, so mist it or use a humidifier.
17. Elephant Ear (Alocasia)
- Why It’s Great: Its massive, heart-shaped leaves create a bold statement in any room.
- Care Tips:
- Needs bright, indirect light.
- Water regularly, keeping the soil slightly moist.
- Loves high humidity, so mist frequently.
Final Thoughts
Large houseplants can be the star of your living room. Each of these plants has its own personality, so pick one (or several!) that fits your space and lifestyle. With the right care, these plants will thrive and bring a touch of the outdoors into your home.