Posts tagged greenery
The Absolute Best Plants For Wedding Gifts
wedding gifts plants

The Ficus Audrey has stunning emerald-green leaves will leave you mesmerized by their natural elegance.

Are you on the hunt for a wedding gift that will make the happy couple feel like they're living in a lush paradise? Houseplants make for a thoughtful, unique and long-lasting present that will remind the newlyweds of their special day for years to come. If you’re not sure where to start, read on to find our Plant Stylists’ picks for the absolute best plants for wedding gifts. 

Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree

The Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree is all the rage right now, and for good reason. Its large, violin-shaped leaves add a touch of drama and style to any room. Plus, it symbolizes strength and stability - two things every newlywed couple needs. It's the perfect gift for a couple that wants to add some personality to their home.

Classic plants like the Snake Plant and Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree are guaranteed to please.

Snake Plant  

Also known as the Mother-In-Law’s Tongue (could the name be any more fitting?!), the Snake Plant is a hardy plant is practically indestructible making it a great choice for beginners or anyone who's a bit forgetful when it comes to watering. It’s one of the best air purifiers, too, another reason why it is so popular for the home.

Ficus Audrey

A plant as graceful as a bouquet of flowers, the Ficus Audrey is a unique choice for a newlywed wedding gift. Easier to case for than most Ficus plants, the Ficus Audrey has recently become one of the most popular of its kind thanks to its easygoing attitude. This plant has large, round leaves that are sure to make a statement in any room. 

The Rubber Tree and Ficus Audrey, two classic plants that the new couple will love.

Rubber Tree

For something more classic, consider the Rubber Tree. This versatile plant is perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to any space. Its large, glossy leaves symbolize abundance and prosperity, which is the perfect thing to wish for a newlywed couple. 

Also known as the “eternity plant”, the Zanzibar Gem is a symbolic gift for weddings.

Zanzibar Gem

The Zanzibar Gem is also often referred to as “the eternity plant”, and what better name could there be for a newlywed couple? This plant is a great choice for anyone who wants a low-maintenance option that requires very little upkeep or watering to keep its attractive and abundant look. Its glossy leaves and easy-to-care-for nature make it a great gift for anyone who's not quite sure if they have a green thumb

Still not sure? Browse our full collection of California-grown greenery to find something that speaks to the couple’s taste. A gift that grows is certain to please, and potentially be their most unique gift yet!


wedding gifts plants

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  • Join hundreds of customers in choosing Léon & George for all their gifting needs. We make it effortless to send an impressive and upscale gifts to someone special, including the happy couple getting married! Enjoy some of the perks of sending a beautiful plant gift with Léon & George:

    • Fast, nationwide shipping with express and overnight options

    • Innovative, custom packaging that ensures your gift arrives in pristine condition

    • Personalized gift message options

    • Select your preferred ship date, if desired

    In a nutshell, we offer a seamless way to send a beautiful living gift to the happy new couple!

  • Every plant gift includes simple care instructions to keep the plant happy and healthy over time. You may also select to include a custom gift message. All gift orders are covered under our 45 Day Guarantee and our Plant Doctor program, which means the recipient can message us anytime for plant care support. Their gift will include a QR code to quickly set up their guarantee and access the Plant Doctors.

  • No. We process everything ahead of time through our secure billing platform. The email address associated with the order will receive a payment confirmation email once the order is processed. The lucky recipient will not see any pricing or billing information.

What You Need to Know Before You Decorate Your Bathroom With Plants

Elevate your bathroom oasis with the natural beauty of living greenery. Shop online at Léon & George

Decorating your bathroom with plants is a fantastic way to bring a touch of nature into a space you use every day! However, it's essential to choose plants that can thrive in the unique conditions of a bathroom environment. In this article, we'll explore what you need to know before decorating your bathroom with plants, including the best plant options, lighting considerations, and tips for maintaining a healthy and stylish green space reminiscent of a tropical oasis!

  1. Lighting Considerations

  2. Bathroom Humidity

  3. Finding Mold on your Plants in the Bathroom

  4. Maintaining Your Bathroom Greenery

  5. Creating a Stylish Bathroom Oasis

Lighting Considerations

Before adding plants to your bathroom, assess the lighting conditions. Many bathrooms have limited natural light, so it's crucial to choose plants that can thrive in low or indirect light. Consider the following tips:

  • Place Plants Near Windows: If your bathroom has a window, position your plants near it to maximize exposure to natural light.

  • Choose Low-Light Tolerant Plants: Opt for plants that can thrive in low-light conditions, such as ZZ plants, Snake Plants and Ferns. These varieties can adapt to the subdued lighting often found in bathrooms.

  • Use Grow Lights: If natural light is insufficient, consider supplementing it with artificial grow lights. LED grow lights are energy-efficient and can provide the necessary light for your bathroom plants to flourish.

Bathroom Humidity

The bathroom tends to be a relatively humid space, so consider investing in plants that enjoy this type of atmosphere. Luckily many popular houseplants hail from tropical environments that are naturally humid, so rest assured there is plenty to choose from! Here are some popular humidity-loving plants that would do well in the bathroom:

Looking for ever more ideas? Check out our full list of best plants for the bathroom.

bathroom cascading pothos

Transform your bathroom vanity with Cascading Pothos – the perfect touch of green.

Finding Mold on your Plants in the Bathroom

Because of the humid conditions in a bathroom, it is not uncommon to find light growth on the soil of your plants. This is almost never harmful, and can sometimes even be beneficial for the health of your plant! If you don’t like the way it looks, feel free to scrape it off and even consider sprinkling the soil with cinnamon to avoid it coming back.

Maintaining Your Bathroom Greenery

To ensure your bathroom plants remain healthy and vibrant, follow these maintenance tips:

  • Watering: Be mindful of your plant's water requirements. While ferns prefer consistently moist soil, succulents like Zanzibar Gems prefer to dry out between watering. Adjust your watering routine based on the specific needs of each plant, and note that many plants will require a lot less frequent watering when living in the humid conditions of the bathroom.

  • Pruning and Grooming: Regularly remove yellow or dead leaves to encourage new growth and keep your bathroom oasis looking fresh. Prune your plants as needed to maintain their shape and size.

  • Rotate Plants: To ensure even growth, periodically rotate your plants. This helps prevent uneven growth and promotes healthier, more balanced plants.

Creating a Stylish Bathroom Oasis

Now that you know what to consider before decorating your bathroom with plants, it's time to transform your space into a stylish and green oasis. By choosing the right plants, optimizing lighting, and implementing proper maintenance, you can enjoy the beauty of nature in one of the most intimate spaces in your home. Explore different plant varieties, experiment with arrangements, and turn your bathroom into a refreshing haven with the power of greenery!


plants for bathroom

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The 10 Commandments of Succulent Care

With their captivating charm and remarkable resilience, succulents have captured the hearts of plant enthusiasts worldwide—and it’s no wonder why! With over 10,000 different succulent varieties in a plethora of different shapes and vibrant colors, these easy care plants are unique to say the least. Though generally quite easy to care for, your succulent deserves nothing less than the utmost care and admiration! To ensure your plants flourish and bring you years of joy and new growth, follow these 10 commandments of succulent care.

  1. The perfect sunlight for succulents

  2. Reccommended watering routines

  3. The importance of proper drainage with succulents

  4. Growth expectations with succulents

  5. Wintertime tips

  6. Propagating, explained

  7. Pruning your succulent

  8. Guide to fertilizing succulents

  9. Pairing multiple succulents

  10. Providing ideal humidity

Basking in the Sunlight

Picture these desert dwellers in their natural habitat, basking under the gentle warmth of the sun: succulents are light-loving plants and most varieties thrive in bright, direct light— ideally about six hours per day. Some succulents can adapt to shady areas, and some, like the Snake Plant (aka Sansevieria) can even thrive in low light. Check the variety of your succulent to ensure you’re giving it the proper amount of sunlight.

With Watering, Less is More

Water your succulents sparingly and with great care. Succulents have evolved to store water in their leaves and stems, making them drought-resistant. Overwatering is the most common mistake made by succulent caregivers, leading to root rot and other issues. Allow the soil to dry completely between waterings, and water deeply but infrequently. Remember, it is better to under water than to overwater these drought-resistant plants!

Providing Proper Drainage

All plants enjoy proper drainage, and succulents are no exception! Plant your succulents in well-draining soil and containers. Proper drainage prevents waterlogged soil, protecting your succulents from drowning in excess water. Opt for a cactus mix or create your own by adding sand or perlite to regular potting soil. Elevate the containers slightly to allow excess water to escape freely, or consider potting using the staging method, and your succulent will be happy and thriving with their perfectly proper drainage.

Patience - The Virtue of Growth

Be patient with your succulents. Growth in succulents can be slow, especially when compared to other plants. Take heed and resist the temptation to overfeed or overwater in the pursuit of hastened growth! Patience will reward you with healthy and vibrant succulents over time.

Growth During the Winter Months

Many succulents enter a period of dormancy and rest during the colder months, slowing down their growth and sometimes even stopping it. Reduce watering and refrain from fertilizing during this time to allow your succulents to recharge for the upcoming season. Shield them from freezing temperatures and protect them from frost damage–sun-loving succulents do not like to freeze!

Propagating Your succulents

Propagating succulents is a fascinating and rewarding process that allows you to expand your collection—for free! One of the most common methods is leaf propagation, which can be done by gently removing a healthy leaf from the parent plant (simply twist and snap off!) and allowing it to callus over for a day or two before placing it on damp, well-draining soil. With time and care, tiny roots will emerge, followed by a new baby succulent sprouting from the base of the leaf, which can then be potted into its own container. It’s really that simple, and incredibly rewarding.

Prune Unhealthy Leaves

Do not fear pruning, for it brings rejuvenation to your growing succulent! Remove dead or decaying leaves to promote new growth, improve your plant’s appearance and maintain the plant's health. Pruning encourages your plant to put out new leaves, resulting in fuller, more beautiful succulents.

Fertilizer for the Best Nutrition

Feed your succulents with care— as with any plant, overfertilizing can cause fertilizer burn or damage to the foliage. During their active growing season (typically spring and summer), offer a diluted, balanced fertilizer no more than once a month. Refrain from fertilizing during winter dormancy when the plants are not actively growing. Over-fertilizing can lead to nutrient imbalances and harm your succulents.

Pairing Your succulents

Arranging your succulents in captivating groupings creates a mini-desert oasis, and is one of the most popular ways to enjoy these beautiful plants. Consider succulent compatibility and water requirements when choosing companions for a harmonious display. Groupings of three or more succulents in one space not only look aesthetically pleasing but also create a mini-biome of moisture that benefits them all!

Keep Your succulent Away From Dry Breezes And Appliances

Succulents, originating from arid regions, have adapted to thrive in low-humidity conditions, but they still require a degree of moisture in the air to remain healthy. Avoid placing your succulents near air conditioners, heaters, or vents, as the dry air from these appliances can quickly dehydrate their leaves and stems. Instead, opt for a spot with consistent air circulation that avoids direct exposure to drafts.

Remember, each succulent is a unique adventure waiting to unfold, and with a sprinkle of patience and a dash of love, you'll cultivate a thriving succulent haven that brings endless joy and serenity to your life. So, let the succulent caregiving fun begin! Happy growing!


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The Absolute Best Plants For A Dining Room

The Dracaena Lisa (left) and Kentia Palm (right) make for a perfect large dining room duo.

When it comes to creating an inviting and refreshing atmosphere in your dining room, incorporating plants can work wonders. Not only do plants add a touch of natural beauty, but they also purify the air, boost mood, and create a sense of tranquility. Read on to discover how to elevate your dining room with both large statement plants and perfect centerpiece plants. From tall and elegant to cascading and vibrant, these dining room plants will bring life and freshness to your space!

  1. Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree

  2. Bird of Paradise

  3. Ficus Audrey

  4. Lady Palm

  5. Kentia Palm

  6. Dracaena Lisa

  7. Dracaena Compacta

  8. Cascading Pothos

  9. Zanzibar Gem

Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree

The Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree is an excellent large floor plant for dining rooms.

The Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree (Ficus lyrata) has become a staple in interior design thanks to its large, violin-shaped leaves. This dramatic plant adds a touch of elegance and height to any room, making it an excellent choice for a spacious dining area. Place it in a corner or near a window to allow its glossy leaves to bask in the natural light.

Bird of Paradise

The Bird of Paradise, a stunning indoor plant that effortlessly brings a touch of the jungle to any space.

The Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae) is an exotic plant with vibrant, tropical blooms that resemble colorful birds in flight. Its large, paddle-shaped leaves provide a bold and striking visual display. Adding a Bird of Paradise to your dining room can evoke a sense of paradise and create a focal point that is sure to impress your guests.

Ficus Audrey

The Ficus Audrey: the ultimate dining room statement plant.

Ficus Audrey (Ficus benghalensis) is a cousin of the Fiddle Leaf Fig, but with slightly different leaf characteristics. Its velvety, emerald-green leaves have an interesting structure that adds a unique touch to any dining space. This plant thrives in bright, indirect light and can grow quite tall, making it ideal for adding vertical interest to your dining room.

Lady Palm

An easy care statement plant for dining rooms, the Lady Palm is a slow grower that requires little maintenance over time.

The Lady Palm (Rhapis excelsa) is a graceful and elegant plant that brings a touch of sophistication to any setting. Its delicate, fan-shaped leaves create a lush and tropical ambiance. This compact palm does well in low light conditions, making it an excellent choice for dining rooms with limited natural light.

Kentia Palm

dining room plants

Add instant lushness to your dining room with the Kentia Palm.

Another palm variety that thrives in indoor environments is the Kentia Palm (Howea forsteriana). This slender and graceful plant features arching, feathery fronds that add a touch of greenery and serenity to your dining space. The Kentia Palm is known for its ability to adapt to various lighting conditions, making it an excellent choice for different dining room setups.

Dracaena Lisa

An easy care dining room plant, the Dracaena Lisa thrives in all light conditions and with minimal care.

The Dracaena Lisa (Dracaena marginata) is a versatile plant that can thrive in various lighting conditions, including low light. Its slender, lance-shaped leaves are edged with vibrant red, providing a pop of color and visual interest. The Dracaena Lisa adds a contemporary touch to your dining room and is relatively low-maintenance, making it an ideal choice for busy households.

Dracaena Compacta

dracaena

The Dracaena Compacta it is an ideal choice for elevating compact spaces with its impressive height.

The Dracaena Compacta (Dracaena compacta) is a compact and sturdy plant with dark green, glossy leaves that create a sense of lushness and freshness. It is known for its ability to tolerate lower light conditions and is particularly suitable for smaller dining rooms or tabletop arrangements. The Dracaena Compacta brings an element of tranquility to your dining space.

Cascading Pothos

A beautiful Cascading Pothos decorates this festive dining room table.

The Cascading Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a popular trailing plant that is perfect for creating a lush and cascading centerpiece in your dining room. Its heart-shaped leaves, variegated in shades of green and yellow, bring a touch of liveliness and vibrancy to any space. Hang it in a planter or allow it to gracefully trail down from a shelf for a stunning display.

Zanzibar Gem

The Zanzibar Gem thrives effortlessly in various environments, making it a versatile and low-maintenance choice.

The Zanzibar Gem (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is a resilient and low-maintenance plant that thrives in a variety of lighting conditions, including low light. Its glossy, dark green leaves add a touch of elegance and a lush appearance to your dining room. The Zanzibar Gem makes for an eye-catching centerpiece with its full and attractive foliage.

Anthurium

The King of Hearts Anthurium—a petite and leafy bouquet that blooms with vibrant scarlet flowers throughout the year, ideal for a dining room centerpiece.

With its vibrant, heart-shaped blooms and glossy green leaves, the Anthurium (Anthurium andraeanum) is a showstopper in any dining room. This tropical plant adds a burst of color and a touch of exoticism to your space. Place it as a centerpiece on your dining table to create a captivating focal point that will surely spark conversation.


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What To Know Before You Buy A Kentia Palm
Kentia Palm

Kentia Palms are great air-purifiers, safe for pets, and adaptable to different light levels.

So, you’ve got your heart set on a Kentia Palm. You’ve seen it in all of the magazines, and you know that it will be the perfect addition to your space. But before you dive into this gorgeous head-turner, there are a few things that you should know about the Kentia Palm. From lighting requirements to care instructions, we’ve got you covered. Here’s everything you need to know before you buy a Kentia Palm.

The Kentia Palm Loves Indirect Light

Don’t have a sun-soaked home? Don’t worry! The Kentia Palm does not require direct sunlight in order to thrive. In fact, direct sunlight can actually be harmful to this plant. Instead, Kentia Palms love indirect light. This means that you should place your Kentia Palm in an area where it will receive bright, filtered light throughout the day. While some dappled and/or soft morning light is okay, in general you should avoid harsh direct sunlight, like that of a west-facing window. This plant can also adapt to medium light levels,  making it a great choice for the office.

The Kentia Palm is a Slow Grower

Don’t expect your Kentia Palm to grow quickly. This plant is a slow grower, and it can take years for it to reach its full height, making it a great choice for someone who doesn’t want to do a lot of maintenance over time. 

Kentia Palm

With their graceful fronds and striking appearance, Kentia Palms are sure to make a statement in any room.

The Kentia Palm is a Good Air Purifier

In addition to being a beautiful plant, the Kentia Palm is also a good air purifier. This plant is known for its ability to remove toxins from the air, such as formaldehyde and benzene, making it a great plant for anyone who wants to improve the air quality in their home or office.

The Kentia Palm is a Pet-Friendly Plant

If you have pets in your home, you’ll be happy to know that the Kentia Palm is a pet-friendly plant. This means that it is non-toxic to both dogs and cats. Of course, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your pets when you introduce a new plant to your space, just to make sure that they don’t show any interest in it–if anything for the plant’s sake!

The Kentia Palm is a Great Statement Plant

If you’re looking for a plant that will make a statement in your space, the Kentia Palm is a great choice. This plant has a bold, tropical look that attracts the eye and beautifies any space. Whether you’re using it as a focal point in your living room or adding it to your office to liven up the space, the Kentia Palm is a plant that will not disappoint.

Avoid Buying Your Kentia Palm from a Garden Center

The health of your Kentia Palm is essential for its overall beauty and ability to thrive. The care it receives both before and after you bring it home is critical. While garden centers might offer a lower price, their plants might not have been well-tended or free from pests. Therefore, it's best to buy from a trusted and reputable grower who can provide the pick of the litter.

When you buy plants from a garden center, you might be getting a plant that has been watered and treated the same as every other plant in the store, regardless of its specific needs. Kentia Palms, for instance, cannot tolerate overwatering. When they receive too much water from the store's hose, their health can slowly start to decline.

Another problem with buying plants from a garden center is transporting them. The process of getting the plant into your car and taking it home can be stressful for the plant, particularly if you're using the car's air conditioning or heater. Environmental stress can be harmful to plants, and it can take time for them to recover.

To ensure the health and vitality of your Kentia Palm, it's best to buy from a supplier that specializes in these plants. They'll know precisely how to care for them and transport them safely to your home. The initial cost may be higher, but in the long run, it's worth it. You'll save both money and energy, and you'll be able to enjoy a beautiful, healthy plant for years to come.


Kentia Palm

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An LA Architecture Studio Imagines a Calming and Expansive Manhattan Beach Residence

Just in time for one last summer hurrah, LA based architecture studio Laney LA has drawn back the curtains to their latest project, an oceanic Manhattan Beach residence that seamlessly invites the outdoors in. The exquisite property “reveals itself slowly”, combining layers of indoor and outdoor spaces to create a soothing feeling of being surrounded by nature.

To tie the space together, we paired the minimalist aesthetics with living greenery that would contrast and in turn complement the geometric interior floor plan. Soft, rounded foliage balances straight lines and corners, accentuating the calming aura of each individual space.

SHOP THE STORY

SHOP THE STORY

Architecture & design by Laney LA.
@laneylainc

Photography by Jess Isaac
@jess_isaac