Like fashion, houseplant trends change quickly. So if you are keen to have the coolest looking plants for your space, these are the top 5 trendy houseplants of 2022 to get now and how to care for each of them.
Alocasia ‘Silver Dragon’
This plant has only recently become more widely available, as it was considered rare and pretty expensive to own. Thankfully, through popularity, it is now much easier to own one of these striking houseplants. The Alocasia ‘Silver Dragon’ has bold silver foliage with dark grey markings in the centre which branch out. It originates from Borneo, Indonesia and is one of approximately 97 recognised species of Alocasia.
In terms of care, this plant prefers medium to bright levels of light. A west or east facing window is an ideal spot for Alocasia to grow. It likes to stay at room temperature, avoid keeping it near drafts or central heating which can cause the leaves to get damaged. Watering can be tricky when it comes to this plant but the best practice is to let the top layer of soil dry out before watering again. This is usually every 10-12 days for an average sized plant. Over-watering will quickly rot and kill an Alocasia, so err on the side of caution and make sure to drain away any excess water at the base if it is sitting in a saucer or plant pot. Humidity is also important – if you do not have a humidifier, grouping plants close together and regularly misting will help maintain the right levels.
Monstera Karstenianum ‘Peru’
Monstera Karstenianum ‘Peru’, also known as Epipremnum ‘Marble Planet’, is native to Southern Mexico and Central America. Unlike its relative the Monstera Deliciosa, which can grow to around 10-15 feet indoors, the ‘Peru’ is a compact growing, trailing variety that makes an excellent houseplant to keep. It has grown in popularity over the last year due to its unusual appearance with distinctive dark green, glossy leaves and textured foliage, and easy care level.
It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some shade. When it comes to watering, it is best to allow the soil to partially dry out at the top before watering. This is usually every 7-10 days for a desk sized plant.
Maranta leuconeura var. erythroneura ‘Lemon Lime’
Maranta, also known as Prayer Plants, have been popular houseplants for many years due to their tropical appearance and easy care level. Their leaves fold up at night and open up again during the day, hence the name Prayer Plant. The ‘Lemon Lime’ variety has been considered quite rare and expensive in recent years, although in 2022 has become popular due to its bold, zesty, green foliage which differs from the common Maranta types on the market.
In terms of care, this plant will do best in bright, filtered light to partial shade. Avoid direct sun which can burn the leaves. Water your Maranta when the top layer of soil feels dry and always ensure good drainage. A humidifier will benefit this plant, or regular misting will also do the job. This plant has a creeping growing habit which means it may need support or a surface area to grow along. It really is a unique houseplant that you should add to your collection if you do not have one already.
String of Hearts, Ceropegia woodii
String of Hearts is a trailing indoor plant with small, heart-shaped, grey leaves and pinkish undersides. If you are lucky it will produce small pink flowers in the summer time, which adds to its charm. This plant is actually a type of succulent and is native to South Africa and Zimbabwe, where it grows in hot temperatures and experiences drought-like conditions, making it a great plant choice for beginners.
In our homes, this plant does best in bright, indirect light and watering when the soil dries out, usually every 7-14 days depending on the size. It is a fast growing plant and will quickly grow and create that jungle look in your home.
Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’
The Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’ is one of the most popular and demanded houseplants this year. The striking pink variegation and heart shaped leaves make this plant stand out from the crowd. Houseplant collectors have been going crazy for it – at one point it was so popular that people were paying hundreds of pounds for a small plant or even cuttings. Thankfully, it is now much easier and more affordable to obtain.
There are over 450 different species of Philodendron varieties in the world and there are probably many more undiscovered. They grow best in bright, filtered light, away from direct sun and need watering every 7-10 days, allowing the top layer of soil to dry out in between waterings. They also benefit from higher humidity and regular feeding throughout the spring and summer months for best results.
Jordan Trainer is Glasgow-based plant enthusiast, and business owner of Partick Mini Market. With a particular passion for houseplants, he has been growing and collecting them for almost 10 years. Follow Jordan for more inspiration on Instagram and Facebook.