Posts in Lifestyle
Real Plants, Real People: Roommates Wren and Jayme
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Wren and Jayme are friends who love a good theme party. When they found their charming San Francisco apartment, they knew it was a place they could take care of and make their own. 

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How did you know this home was for you?

When we visited the apartment it was empty. They had just re-sealed the floors and there was warm natural light reflecting from everywhere. We sat down in the middle of the floor and it felt comfortable. It was a home we could see ourselves investing in, filling with nice furniture and pieces that would last. 

Wren wanted a plant that handles low light for their small common area, she went with a Zanzibar Gem

Wren wanted a plant that handles low light for their small common area, she went with a Zanzibar Gem

What inspires you when you decorate?

We both like playing with color and themes. One of the first pieces we purchased for the apartment was a shower curtain, which we picked out from Urban Outfitters. As we were browsing a "Welcome to the Jungle" doormat was suggested and that ended up becoming our theme. We eventually added plants, our colorful velvet couches, and fun animal decor. 

What are your plant care secrets?

A light touch. They don't need to be bothered all the time, but it does help to have a rhythm. We typically check in on them on Sundays. Being aware when something has changed or seems to be wrong, then testing out adjustments is also something we do. When they get big, you notice them even more, so you can't help but be aware of how they're doing. 

Jayme picked a Bird of Paradise as a larger plant that would do well with the bright light in her room.

Jayme picked a Bird of Paradise as a larger plant that would do well with the bright light in her room.


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At Home With The Elephant Ear
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Nothing says jungle vibes quite like a big, bold, tropical plant. And right now, there’s one in particular that seems to be on everyone’s plant wishlist. Its leaves can grow up to two feet in width, and it is the ultimate statement plant for any style or space.

Say hello to the majestic Elephant Ear.

The Alocasia, or Elephant Ear as it is commonly called, gets its name from its flat, jumbo-sized, heart-shaped leaves. Elephant Ear plants make a great decorative piece for a spacious room and instantly bring a lush, tropical vibe. They are typically fast-growers that thrive best with indirect sunlight, humid settings and moist soil.

A few fun facts:

  • The entire plant is edible, but only when cooked

  • A popular houseplant since the 1950s, it can live decades with the right care

  • In Asia the plant is known as “the great protector”

There are a few different varieties of the Elephant Ear, including the Alocasia Regal Shield (pictured), Alocasia Calidora, and the Alocasia Black Magic.

How To Care for The Elephant Ear

This plant is easy to care for indoors and does not require an expert green thumb. Here’s the low-down on how to care for the Elephant Ear plant:

  • Light: medium to bright indirect light is ideal

  • Water: water once a week or when the top two inches of soil is dry

  • Feeding: fertilize once a month in the spring and summer

  • Miscellaneous: as a tropical plant, the Elephant Ear loves a consistently warm environment. If it’s too cold, brown spots may appear on the leaves, and if it’s too hot, it may droop

Read our full care guide on the Elephant Ear to learn how to grow this majestic beauty!

Where to place an Elephant Ear

Beyond medium to bright indirect light for the Alocasia, you’re also going to want a lot of space: this plant does not get too tall, but it can get quite large in width and will need room to grow. While this is not a great plant for a small room or narrow corner, the Elephant Ear can truly transform a space if given the chance!


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