Styling a modern space can be challenging, we know! When you consider that modern spaces often hinge on a “less is more” aesthetic, that can mean that extra consideration and care goes into every piece of decor you use. The modern style is typically clutter-free, with streamlined decor, a neutral palette, and well-considered pops of color. And when it comes to adding greenery, there are additional considerations like care requirements, overall appearance and lighting needs. But selecting a perfect plant for your modern style doesn’t have to be a herculean task! We have selected the absolute best plants for modern spaces based on a few simple tenets: a gorgeous look, easy-care disposition and flexible light requirements. Read on to learn more!

Dracaena Lisa

The ideal statement floor plant needs to pack a punch. An unforgettable plant for a modern space will feature lots of lush foliage, towering height, and will always look healthy. That’s why the Dracaena Lisa is one of the very best options for a modern look. They are naturally quite tall (up to six and a half feet!) and because they are a genuinely easy-care indoor variety, keeping them in tip-top shape is simple. They can tolerate low light, need watering only when their topsoil is dry, and rarely require special care. Done and dusted!

Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree

If you’re looking for a dose of absolute elegance, the Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree is a shoo-in. You’ve probably seen these gorgeous trees in the glossy pages of interior design magazines- or even in photos of well-considered spaces from the 1970s-80s. The history of the Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree, or Ficus lyrata, is rich- and so is its aesthetic. Be prepared for a glorious diva of a statement plant that will require ample bright, indirect light and some special attention. Fiddles are well worth the extra devotion and care, but can be best for owners with moderate plant care experience. Still, you’d be hard pressed to find a more iconic plant for a modern space.

Bird of Paradise

We think it’s a given that any modern space needs a Bird of Paradise. Immediately cheerful, this gentle giant brings plenty of texture and height to enliven streamlined spaces. Their vibrant coloration adds a pop of color to neutral palettes and modern furnishings, and creates a natural focal point. The best news of all? They’re beyond low-maintenance. They require direct sun (as much as possible!) but beyond that, all they need is light watering when their topsoil is dry. A perfect statement plant for the modern aesthete on the go.

Monstera Deliciosa

If you’re looking to add living sculpture to an artful space, the Monstera Deliciosa should be at the top of your list! Perfect for adding intrigue and texture to spaces with minimalist decor (or for imbuing a playful space with a pop-art punch!) the Monstera Deliciosa is having a moment. But don’t worry, it’s popularity is well-earned: and we think that the Monstera’s status as a covetable it-plant is here to stay. After all, they’re incredibly easy to care for, grow abundantly, and have some of the most enchanting foliage we’ve ever seen! Your mood will be boosted every time your eyes come to rest on an abundant Monstera- and it’s easy to keep them in thriving good health. They’re adaptable to medium, indirect light, and need water only sparingly.

Bird’s Nest Fern

If you’re considering a humidity-loving jewel of a plant for your stylish bathroom, look no further than the Bird’s Nest Fern. Modern bathrooms are often neutral, and adding some texture can work wonders for illuminating the overall aesthetic of the space. Talk about leafy goodness: the Bird’s Nest Fern’s iconic, quill-shaped foliage adds an instant dose of enchanting, lush texture, and with their tropical origins, they adore the additional moisture that bathrooms receive.

Calathea Rattlesnake

Need some intriguing color for your Tulip Table? The Calathea Rattlesnake is here to save the day for your Saarinen! Featuring super-vibrant, fluttery foliage in shades of emerald and burgundy, this easy-care medium plant was made to dazzle on modern surfaces. This tropical variety prefers bright, indirect light, but it’s also adaptable to shady areas.

Dracaena Compacta

Do put this baby in a corner. Corners are often overlooked when styling a room, but they’re so much more than dust-collectors. All they need is a little green! And the Dracaena Compacta is a dream plant for corner placement. Featuring a laddered aesthetic, with playful pom-poms of lush, wild foliage, Dracaena Compactas have charm to spare. And because they do perfectly well with medium light, you don’t need to worry that they’ll languish in a previously unsung corner. They were practically made for that spot!

Pilea Peperomiodes

Enter the space-age: if you’re looking for kinetic appeal and a sense of play, the Pilea Peperomiodes is the plant variety for you. With flying-saucer foliage and a lush structure of stems, the Pilea easily injects charm and an artful, sculptural attitude into any space. Perfect for shelves and coffee tables, the Pilea will thrive near a window that receives bright, indirect light.

Snake Plant

The Snake Plant is a gold standard for a reason: these low-maintenance beauties have gorgeous variegation on their slender blades, achieve stunning height, and are natural air purifiers. Set a Snake Plant anywhere you want to add a bit of effortless style, and enjoy their mood-boosting properties (as well as their renowned reputation for bringing their owners good fortune)!

King of Hearts Anthurium

If your space’s palette is a mix of muted tones, the King of Hearts Anthurium is just what you need: a lively and enchanting pop of color that’s perfect for tabletop placement. We guarantee that you’ve never seen a crimson quite this vibrant- and the spade shape of their blooms is immediately Mid-Century (think poker cards, tiki bars, and Lewis-Carroll style charm).

Now that you’ve selected your plants, it’s time to set yourself up for success! Information on how to care for the plant varieties above, as well as guidance for troubleshooting common plant care issues, is all available at La Residence.

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Shopping for a new Bird of Paradise to grace your home or patio should be a joy, not hard work. But the truth is that purchasing any new houseplant can be tricky. After all, this is no ordinary piece of a decor: a statement plant is a living, breathing centerpiece for your space. It’s worth it to do it right- but buying a new Bird of Paradise doesn’t have to be a chore! It all comes down to knowing what to expect from your plant, and what to look for as you shop. So read on, because we’re here to fill you in on everything you need to know before you buy a new Bird of Paradise!

Your Bird Of Paradise Will Need Bright, Direct Light

Birds of Paradise love direct sunlight. It’s one of the reasons that they are such a prominent and popular plant for outdoor spaces in the sunniest locales: they are happiest when placed in spots that receive bright sunshine. And although they flourish in full sun, they also appreciate a bit of light diffusion, like most plants. Long story short: the sunniest spot in your home or yard is likely a great spot for your Bird of Paradise! If you have questions about the lighting your Bird of Paradise will need, everything you need to know about lighting requirements is available in our light guide. It’s an easy read, and a great resource!

Your Bird Of Paradise Can Grow Big And Fast

Birds of Paradise are the go-to statement plant if you’re looking for impressive overall size. Towering height, a full, gorgeous canopy: Birds of Paradise have it all. Your Bird of Paradise can grow fast with sufficient light, so if you’re looking for a plant that will consistently push out new foliage and create a breathtaking focal point, a Bird of Paradise might just be the perfect plant for you.

Now, Where To Place That Bird Of Paradise?

If you have your heart set on a Bird of Paradise, knowing where to put it is paramount. Consider its needs: it requires ample, bright sun, as we have mentioned, but what about that expansive canopy? You’d be selling the incredible aesthetic of your Bird of Paradise short by squishing it against a wall, and its large, quill-shaped foliage would not thank you for it. Plan on placing your Bird of Paradise in a sunny spot that is roomy enough for the plant to spread as it grows and worships the sun. A helpful hint: expect your Bird of Paradise’s diameter to be about as wide as the plant is tall.

Birds Of Paradise Have Wild Foliage

You have probably noticed that the foliage of a Bird of Paradise is singularly beautiful: huge, for one thing, but also fluttery, feathery and frayed. This is normal! Bird of Paradise leaves naturally create splits, frays and coils as they grow. This is an evolutionary feature, adapted by the plant to allow its foliage to dance in the wind, rather than be damaged by gusts. These splits and frays will occur whether your Bird of Paradise is placed indoors or outdoors, so expect it from the outset. We think that these imperfections are perfect- and they’re definitely perfectly natural! But if you don’t like wild leaves, you might want to try a plant with more straightforward foliage. A Rubber Tree, perhaps.

Your Bird Of Paradise Will Need only Light Watering

Birds of Paradise are conveniently drought-resistant. Sounds wonderful, right? It is! But it also necessitates a certain amount of self-control. We all love to baby our plants, but it is very important not to overwater your Bird of Paradise. That means that instead of dousing it whenever you fancy, you should be probing its soil for moisture once weekly, and watering only when its top two inches of soil are dry to the touch.

….But Its Watering Needs Will Vary By Season

One of the fun things about plants is that they’re just like us! Well, kind of. If the sun is beating down like a congo drum and you’re regularly reaching for a cold drink, it’s likely the time of year when your Bird of Paradise may also need a little more water than usual. The opposite also applies: in deep midwinter, when it’s hard to force ourselves to get our daily recommended liters of water, your Bird of Paradise may also require a bit less. The good news: you don’t have to guess. Just stick your finger down two inches into your Bird of Paradise’s soil once a week, and water only when dry.

How To Select A Healthy, Gorgeous Bird of Paradise

No matter where you purchase your Bird of Paradise from, it’s important to go with a supplier that you trust. Do a little research- it’s actually fun! Trustworthy vendors and shops will have positive reviews and helpful, knowledgeable customer service providers. If you decide to buy your Bird of Paradise from a retail shop, check the plants you’re considering for signs of browning foliage, sticky sap, and insects. If the plant appears stressed or unhealthy, it’s not the one for you.

Avoid Purchasing Your Bird Of Paradise From A Garden Center

Getting the lowest price for any purchase is tempting, but it’s not always the best choice- especially when it comes to living plants. Without strong relationships with growers and a high standard for quality, the plants offered by garden centers may have an appealing price tag, but no guarantee of a pest- free, healthy plant.

Additionally, you can’t control how your plant is treated while it’s at the garden center or retail store. Because all plant varieties have different requirements for things like light, water, and plant food, a one-size-fits-all approach is convenient for the store, but dangerous for the health and appearance of the plant.

Have you ever noticed that the nursery section of home improvement stores, garden centers and other retail locations has lots of bugs? We have too- and that is not ideal for plants. And once an insect-infested plant is in your home, there is a significant risk of the insects migrating from your new plant to the other plants in your space. Talk about something to avoid at all costs- eradicating bugs can be a time-consuming and stressful process. Save yourself a world of trouble by buying your new Bird of Paradise from a supplier that you trust. Plants that are nurtured lovingly from the start are set up for success for years to come.

How To Select The Right Size Of Bird Of Paradise

With this one, the ball is really in your court! If you are looking for a tree-sized statement plant to illuminate an entire room with vibrancy, you can’t go wrong with an extra large Bird of Paradise of five feet or more. If you’re wondering if a Bird of Paradise that large will continue to grow, well, the answer is yes! Birds of Paradise can reach ten feet in the wild, and although that would be unusual in a domestic environment, you can expect gorgeous growth from any well-cared for Bird of Paradise.

If that sounds a little too large for you, opt for a Bird of Paradise of three to four feet. Birds of Paradise of this size are still statuesque and lovely- and their aesthetic impact is still dazzling. But you may find that your options for placement are more varied if you select a smaller plant. And again, your Bird of Paradise will grow!

Even The Healthiest Birds Of Paradise Can Experience Stress From Time To Time

Plenty of people have had experience with plants that just didn’t seem happy, and usually the issue is significantly easier to identify and treat than you’d think. Most issues with Birds of Paradise come down to a simple case of overwatering or insufficient light. At Leon and George, we offer lifetime Plant Doctor support to every customer that purchases a plant from us. That means that we have a team of master gardeners on staff to assess any issues, suggest care adjustments, and guide you in your plant parenthood. You never have to go it alone! And you can start on strong, green footing, because we have fun, detailed articles on plant care, styling and more available twenty-four hours a day at La Residence.

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Bird of Paradise

A lush and vibrant statement floor plant with a gorgeous canopy of wild, quill-shaped foliage. Perfect for sunny spaces, the Bird of Paradise requires only light watering and is a low-maintenance option for plant owners on the go.

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In our Dear Plant Stylist series, we share styling and lighting inquiries received by our in-house stylists with our audience. So read on-- you just might find that your plant styling questions are answered below! 

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Dear Plant Stylist, 

I’ve put this off for a long time, but just this month I have finally carved out some time to convert the rec room into a yoga space. I’m trying to stick to this habit (wish me luck) and thinking that the more beautiful I make the space, the more I’ll want to be there. But I don’t know where to start with plants- and I want to make sure that the ones I get won’t take up too much space as I move through flows, stretch and adjust. Suggestions?

Best,
S.N.

Hi S.,

What a fantastic project to take on in the new year. Investing your time and creativity into enriching your home is always a good idea, and even more so when most of us are still spending quite a bit of time at our home bases. (Perhaps more than we anticipated!)

Plants with Air Purifying Qualities 

We have a wealth of green options for you, and they all come with different perks. Our Air Purifying Plant Collection, for instance, specifically highlights plant varieties that have been scientifically shown to purify the air. But there are other perks as well, from aesthetic (slender plants that take up minimal space) to philosophical (plants with connotations of fulfillment and good fortune). Here’s our round-up for the best options for your yoga space.  

Both Snake Plants and Dragon Trees boast significant air purifying powers. They’re also sturdy, vertically-oriented floor plants that require little care, so they’re great options for limited space and corner placement. Snake Plants are traditionally associated with protection and abundance, so no injuries on your horizon! They’re a perfect protector for your yoga space.

Full and Luscious Plants

For an instant dose of energy and positivity, you can’t go wrong with a Monstera Deliciosa. They’re a low-maintenance, sun-loving plant with punchy, textured foliage that grows abundantly. Just be mindful of placement, because these gorgeous plants can really stretch! Still, they’re an ideal focal point for a cheerful, inspiring space as long as they’re placed in a spot that won’t encroach on your exercise area.

A Cast Iron Plant is a perfect plant for setting yourself up for success. If you’re looking to spend time focused on your flows rather than probing topsoil, they’re an absolute shoo-in. They require watering only seldom, and are adaptable to low light, so determining their placement is a breeze- just put one wherever you think it looks fabulous!

For accent plants, you can’t go wrong with a Cascading Pothos, Jade Pothos or Zanzibar Gem. These varieties boast beautifully textured foliage and pack a punch, even in small sizes. Pair them with our new Sand color of Scandinavian pot for an additional dose of warm, sun-kissed tonality and a touchable finish. 

Feng Shui Plants

And finally, a boost of feng shui. An ideal exercise space will have plenty of space for energy to flow, and greenery that fills your mind with serenity and peace. The Braided Money Tree is renowned for its connotation with bringing good health, wealth and prosperity to its owner, so we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention that it is an absolute jewel for any space in which you hope to cultivate your own health and wellness! They’re slender to boot, with thin trunks and a compact canopy, so they can be seamlessly incorporated into any area that you want to fill with good vibrations. 

Happy shopping, S., and let us know how it goes! We’d love to see your serene space in situ. Here’s to a new year of good health and ample inspiration.

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In our Dear Plant Stylist series, we share styling inquiries received by our in-house stylist with our audience. So read on- you just might find that your plant styling questions are answered below! 

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Dear Plant Stylist, 

I just invested in a few new pieces of furniture (think: Knoll) for my apartment. I’m so excited about them- I’ve waited a long time to arrive at a place in my life where I can realize my dream of authentic Mid-Century design in my home. AND the holidays are coming up, so I’m gearing up to host friends. My plan is Manhattans, canapés, and a totally Mad Men vibe.

Now that I’ve gotten the furniture locked, it’s time for plants. What are your suggestions for greenery that will go with the Mid-Century, Mad Men theme?  

Thanks,

D.E.

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Hi D.,

Do we ever have some options for you! 

First off- congratulations! There’s nothing like the feeling of attaining a goal for your living space that you’ve been working toward for some time. We’re excited to help you get that Mad Men look.

Our Bird of Paradise, a perfect addition to a mid-century living room. Photo credit: Apt2b

The Mid-Century ethos was all about newness, forward motion and innovation. It was the Space Age! So there was a pronounced move from nostalgia and inherited goods to a focus on the brand-new. This meant a surge in popularity for plants that felt unusual and fresh. 

It probably goes without saying, but the Mid-Century aesthetic is kind of our thing, so you’ve definitely come to the right place. And many of the plants that we carry were very popular in the 1950s and 60s, like the Cast Iron Plant, Snake Plant, Monstera Deliciosa and all sorts of Rubber Plants and trees. In the 1960s, Palms were also used to great effect.

The Monstera Deliciosa on the Mad Men set.

Let’s start with a sculptural statement plant that would have been right at home in Bert Cooper’s office, next to his Rothko: the Lady Palm. Lush, textural and suffused with energy, the Lady Palm would be an ideal choice for a spot in your living or sitting room. They’re tolerant of both bright, indirect and medium-low light. 

Now let’s move to the Rubber Tree. Its foliage is high-shine, glossy and stunning. Something about these verdant ficuses just alludes to perpetual newness. They are gorgeous when utilized to flank couches or chairs, as pictured in our inspo photo, next to that caramel leather sofa. 

The Rubber Tree is an excellent choice for a mid-century inspired living room.

The Monstera Deliciosa is another authentically Mid-Century floor plant that brings an energetic, tropical aesthetic to interior spaces. They had a heyday in the 60s, and we think that they’re very Megan Draper: emblematic of the new guard of stylish, creative thinkers that were blazing trails as the liberated 1970s approached.

Snake Plants and Cast Iron Plants are period-appropriate options for large plants that can thrive virtually anywhere and require very little care. Perfect picks if you’re concerned that your frequent Pan-Am flights will leave you with little time for plant maintenance! 

A Parlor Palm makes for the perfect accent in a mid-century inspired living room. Photo credit: @theweekendmixologist

For accent plants, we can’t say enough about the Parlor Palm. Ideal for placement on tabletops and shelves, the Parlor Palm has an undeniable Mid-Century look. With their flexible light requirements, they add a pop of artful texture and a sense of fun to even commonly overlooked spaces, like bathrooms. 

Enjoy curating your new plant collection, D! It’s been more than a treat to return to the timeless inspiration of Mad Men with you.

Monstera Deliciosa

Parlor Palm

Rubber Tree

Lady Palm

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Turns out, you really can have it all. And our new Dracaena collection checks every box: a hand-picked flight of vibrantly sculptural statement plants, that just happen to be easy-care with air purifying powers to boot. 

So join us as we let the genie out of the bottle, because each of these Dracaena varieties was hand-picked to adorn your home with lush, low-maintenance style! 

Dracaena Compacta

Dracaena Lisa

Dragon Tree

Easy Care Dracaenas, At Your Service

One of the best traits of Dracaena varieties is that they are truly easy-care, because they are adaptable to varied levels of light and don’t require a study influx of bright rays. 

This makes them the perfect option for spaces that don’t receive much natural light and areas that can otherwise be difficult to adorn with living greenery, like hallways and corners. 

This family of plants also doesn’t require profuse watering. They simply need to be watered when their topsoil (the top two inches of soil below the decorative reindeer moss in your pot) are dry to the touch. It’s that simple! Water when topsoil is dry, and hold off when it is moist. This easy equation will keep your Dracaena healthy and flourishing for years to come. 

The Dracaena Air-Purifying Effect

Air purifying properties in living greenery are truly a gift from nature, and the Dracaena has this quality in spades. Not only do plants convert carbon dioxide (ew) into fresh air (ah!) through the act of photosynthesis, but indoor Dracaenas like the Dracaena Marginata also have the power to remove volatile compounds (even potentially harmful ones linked to cancer) from the air.

Dracaena Compacta

Dragon Tree

Dracaena Lisa

Airborne pollutants are no fun, and if you typically associate them with outdoor spaces and cities, you’re not alone. But benzene and formaldehyde are often found in both occupational and non-occupational indoor spaces-- even at home.

Add to that the fact that indoor plants calm the sympathetic nervous system, have a positive effect on mood and energy levels, and soothe stress, and we think you’ll agree that any space you’re in needs a Dracaena! 

Dracaena Varieties: An Abundance Of Wildly Stylish Foliage

Indoor living greenery is having a heyday-- and we are here for it! But you may feel a bit fatigued if you notice what seem to be the same plant varieties in every stylish space you enter. We’re firm proponents of the idea that all living plants make great adornments and function as fantastic decor. But if unique, frisky foliage is what you’re looking for, the Dracaena is for you. Consider the unique foliage of these Dracaena varieties:

• Dracaena Marginata aka Dragon Tree - Long, slender striped leaves with a striking and energetic appearance

• Dracaena Compacta aka Dracaena Janet Craig - Tightly knit tufts of waxy, emerald green leaves

• Dracaena Lisa aka Dracaena Fragrans - Shiny lush leaves that grow to towering heights

Textural, layered, lush and deeply hued, the Dracaena plays well with any style of interior decor, from energizing a neutral palette and adding intrigue to a minimalist space, to incorporating a deeply natural, spirited jungle aesthetic to detail-oriented spaces. 

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A lush Bird of Paradise. Photo credit: Batch

In our Dear Plant Stylist series, we share styling inquiries received by our in-house stylist with our audience. So read on- you just might find that your plant styling questions are answered below! 

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Dear Plant Stylist, 

My husband and I just inherited a living room set from his mother and it’s beautiful, but the entire set is light gray. I like this color, but I don’t want our whole living room space to become washed out. I’m not a “beige/minimalist” person. My Pinterest searching led me to gem tones, and I saw a lot of emerald there, so I naturally thought: plants! Which statement plants would you consider “gem tone”?

Best,

S.F. 

—

Hi S.,

We adore inherited furniture! And it’s not only sustainable- it’s the perfect complement to a storied, love-filled home. In regard to your particular set, we think that you’ve lucked out with a gray collection, because it will be easy to incorporate accents- plants, patterns, and textures- to your heart’s content. Now, onto gem tones.

The Zanzibar Gem, aptly named! Photo credit: Léon & George

A wonderfully matched Dracaena Lisa. Photo Credit: Alison Giese Interiors

You’re not wrong that emerald is a stunning gem tone, and living plants showcase the hue while adding texture and sculptural intrigue to a space. Of our plant varieties, the Zanzibar Gem and Dracaena Lisa are particularly popular for the depth of their emerald foliage. 

But the fun doesn’t stop there: enter the Rubber Tree. Its shiny, glowing leaves combine hues of both deep emerald and burgundy. Gem tones galore! The extra large Rubber Tree variety is an absolute standout, but it is also available in large, medium and small sizes. No matter the size, its foliage will display that emerald and claret combination that is so stunning. 

Another excellent option for a large gem tone plant is the Red Congo, aptly named for its deep, scarlet stems and emerald leaves. Red Congos are beyond low-maintenance, low-light adaptable and have lush, full foliage. They’re ideal for those pesky corners that receive low light,  where other plants might fail. 

Statement plants with deep green hues like the Kentia Palm are a great fit for gem tone interiors. Photo credit: Batch

And now for a smattering of fantastic plants to place on surfaces! For adorning coffee tables, mantels and shelves, we offer a great selection of colorful, variegated plants. Magenta Triostars, Calathea Rattlesnakes, and Golden Petras are all wonderful options, with foliage that reflects emerald, pink and citrine tones. They can all be mixed and matched, and playing with pot colors can highlight their hues. Black ceramic pots provide beautiful contrast for brightly variegated plants.

With your greenery locked down, it’s time to accessorize! Wood stands, particularly in light teak and black tones, will provide further contrast and warmth to your arrangements. It’s also fun to play with levels and shapes, by mixing the bell-shaped Nouvelle pot with other styles. When placed on surfaces, medium plants housed in wood stands provide both height and visual play. 

The takeaway: go wild! Your gray furniture has provided you with the perfect clean slate to explore an abundance of gem tones, for a result that will be harmonious and engaging. 

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"My personal style of decor is specific, because I have a great love for the Modern movement, but I always want to keep it approachable by adding practical, grounded complements. My Noda Horo kettle is a good example of something that's very well designed, but pragmatic. Ideally, I'd always be surrounded by objects and decor that feel forever fresh." -Aurelia, UX Designer. View on The Landing.

What makes your space “you”? Bringing your own personality and flair to your home is one of the most enjoyable parts of decorating, and from the color palettes you lean towards to the houseplants you choose to nurture, every piece of your home is a reflection of the singularity that is you!

We asked some of our team members to envision their own character-filled home, and the results were delightful. Check out their creations and inspirations (we used The Landing mood board app), and don’t be afraid to create your own!

“I love color and shapes but worry too much about things clashing and always end up defaulting to white. The result is usually a clean, minimal space with a pop of color. That’s what I love so much about plants— their vibrancy is enough to bring a stark white room to life!” -Barbie, Head of Brand. View on The Landing.

Dracaena Lisa

Zanzibar Gem

Cascading Pothos

"I give myself free reign to indulge in everything I love when it comes to my home, which means lots of prints. It's a far cry from my taste in fashion, which is almost exclusively black. At home I have kilims, bizarre antiques, chinoiserie florals and lots of handmade baskets. I prize vintage over new items in almost every scenario, and have furniture from the 1890s to the 1970s. Material is key-- I'm still seeking a few perfect cane chairs." -Allison, Plant Stylist. View on The Landing.

“I’m full of contradictions when decorating. I despise clutter, yet I love to pile on the texture. I’m a Virgo so I can be a perfectionist, yet I prefer a perfectly imperfect look: a rogue chair, mismatched patterns… Above all I strive for coziness, and to me that means actually looking and feeling lived in (and yes that means accepting the occasional clutter, too!). And of course, no space would be really mine without my total couch potato of a dog, Duna :)” -Renée, Marketing Director. View on The Landing.

Bird's Nest Fern

Monstera Deliciosa

Rubber Plant

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Photo Credit: @riverwoodbuildingcompany

In our Dear Plant Stylist series, we share styling and lighting inquiries received by our in-house stylists with our audience. So read on-- you just might find that your plant styling questions are answered below! 

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Dear Plant Stylist, 

We just moved into our forever home— a modern farmhouse-style, two-story home that we waited years for. We chose this style because it suits our minimalist aesthetic, and the interior is spacious and gets tons of light. What plants will pair best with this style? I want easy-care varieties that will blend well with modern appliances and accents. 

Best,

T.B. 

Hi T., 

Congratulations on your new home! There is so much to recommend the modern farmhouse aesthetic, so you’ve made a great choice. We love modern farmhouses because they’re classic and clean, often incredibly energy-efficient, and they offer the perfect canvas for decorating in your own personal style.

You mentioned your preference for a minimalist look, which jives well with our ceramics collection. Every option-- the classic Mid-Century, more angular Scandinavian, and curved Nouvelle-- is ultimately minimalist in style and will blend seamlessly with the modern farmhouse aesthetic. So, go wild on pots! Shades of gray, black and white will be particularly good options for your home. 

Undoubtedly the Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree is the ultimate statement plant for a modern farmhouse style. Photo Credit: @spmliving

The fact that you receive a lot of light in your home bodes well for your options in regard to plants. We recommend starting with a statement Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree— or two! These statuesque beauties thrive in bright, indirect light, and they’re especially breathtaking as pairs, flanking thresholds. They are also a wonderful choice for a solo statement plant to brighten a corner. 

If your space receives steady, direct bright light, you can incorporate a large Bird of Paradise. They bring fantastic size and texture, with an easy-care disposition that has endeared them to our customers nationwide! 

Large statement plants are definitely the way to go with most modern farmhouses, as they so often boast large features like windows and fireplaces and soaring ceilings where possible.

A Bird of Paradise brings a welcome splash of color and life to this beautiful white-washed sunroom. Photo Credit: www.homebunch.com

For subtle, large floor plants, Rubber Trees are a fantastic option. They have deeply tonal foliage and are the perfect height for placement near seating and end tables. Their streamlined style means that they blend well with varied decor, and they’re a perfect counterpoint for the charcoal, black and gray accents that are common in modern farmhouse interiors. Pairing the Rubber Trees with a dark or black wood stand makes their richly colored foliage pop, and they require watering only when fully dry. 

For plants to place on surfaces, the Tineke Rubber Plant is a shoo-in. Its gentle, pastel foliage is a gorgeous accent for the white walls of modern farmhouses. Leafy varieties like Little Hopes and Bird’s Nest Ferns are immediately homey and nostalgic, and make perfect centerpieces for dining areas and as accents to nightstands. 

Leafy plants like the Cascading Pothos (pictured) or Little Hope make wonderful accents for modern farmhouse decor. Photo Credit: www.homebunch.com

If your modern farmhouse is home to curious pets (or children!) be sure to check out  this collection, which features all of our non-toxic houseplant varieties, including lots of stunning options for shelves, tables and other raised surfaces. 

When it comes down to it, you really can’t go wrong when selecting plants for your modern farmhouse. That’s the magic of this streamlined style of home- it will easily accommodate your vision! But it can be fabulously accented by healthy, living greenery. Choose plants that will thrive in the bountiful light your home receives, and they will flourish for years to come!

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Photo credit: @ashleykane

In our Dear Plant Stylist series, we share styling and lighting inquiries received by our in-house stylists with our audience. So read on-- you just might find that your plant styling questions are answered below! 

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Dear Plant Stylist,

I live in the Sunset district of San Francisco and my apartment receives medium to low light. The sun almost never shines directly through my windows and it’s often foggy. What kind of plants would you recommend for my home? I want an extra large plant and a couple smaller complements to flank focal points in my living room. 

Best,

D.L. in San Francisco

Dear D.L., 

First things first-- we love the Sunset! That marine layer may make the neighborhood feel like Fog-gust is a year-round affair, but it’s one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in San Francisco, and it’s a wonderful place to call home-- both for you and your plants. There are so many gorgeous cities that experience that summer (or year round!) gloom, but don’t worry-- there are plants to thrive in every location, no matter what light it receives. 

You mentioned that your apartment receives medium to low light, and we believe you-- but it’s important to be sure of these things, so if you want to double check before you make any purchases, you can always use our Light Requirements For Plants: Explained! blog post. 

Now onto your plant options: the medium to low light that your apartment receives is not a dealbreaker. In fact, most of the houseplants we offer prefer indirect light. Houseplants are often tropical species, originating in rainforests with thick canopies which receive only diffuse light, so the bright light that can shine through (and be magnified by) glass windows is prone to scorch the leaves of many indoor plants. 

In short, you have a wealth of options and I’m excited to share them with you!

The Dracaena Lisa is a gorgeous, towering statement plant that can survive and thrive with little to no natural light.

For your statement plant, I’d suggest a Dracaena Lisa. These extra-large plants average six feet in height from bottom of pot to topmost leaf, and their lush foliage is reminiscent of tropical locales- they bring a tremendous dose of greenery to any space. They’re also exceptionally easy-care and low light tolerant. 

Your Dracaena Lisa would be best situated 5+ feet from any windows. 

My recommendation for a pair of plants to flank your space would be two of our large Zanzibar Gems. They’re a gorgeous match for the Dracaena Lisa, with fantastic texture, deep green tonality and a height averaging three feet from the bottom of their pot to their topmost leaf. 

Zanzibar Gems are low-maintenance, require remarkably little water, and are tolerant of all light levels. 

Parlor Palms and a variety of Pothos varieties would make great additional accent plants, and would do well in medium to low light without direct sun. The options are almost endless, and we offer two collections exclusively for medium light and low light environments, so you can feel confident as you shop from these collections that you’re purchasing plants that will thrive in your space.

With the plants done, we can move onto the next step! What reading chair will go beneath your gorgeous Dracaena Lisa? A Barcelona Chair, I hope-- maybe with an Eileen Gray side table? Nothing says San Francisco like streamlined design!

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In our Dear Plant Stylist series, we share styling and lighting inquiries received by our in-house stylists with our audience. So read on-- you just might find that your plant styling questions are answered below! 

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Dear Plant Stylist, 

One of my dearest friends has invited me to come along to her vacation house this summer. What would be a good plant to give as a Thank You gift for the host?

Something easy, please, 

L.R.

Dear L., 

First things first: congratulations on the getaway! We all need one more than ever after the year we’ve had. 

Living plants make such fantastic gifts for hosts. They’re truly thoughtful and emblematic of your appreciation and care. They can also be a little bit tricky to choose, because you don’t want to saddle your friend with a daunting new responsibility. But there are so many genuinely low-maintenance houseplants that this doesn’t have to be an issue. 

Let’s start with the biggest considerations, and then we can work our way down to styling preferences. 

Does your friend have kids or animals that might chew plants? We promise we’re not conflating beloved children with unruly pets, but toxic houseplants are a bad idea for both! If this is a concern, you’ll want to choose a non-toxic plant from this collection. 

Lighting also plays a part in choosing plants. Many plants are flexible, but if your friend’s space receives particularly low light, you’ll want to let this collection be your guide. 

The Lucky Plant Set Duo is a great gift for hosts who can appreciate good feng shui.

Now, onto the fun stuff. If your friend and gracious host is holistically minded, (really, who isn’t?) you could consider giving her the gift of wellness and bountiful fresh air, by picking out an air-purifying plant for her. Many gorgeous houseplants have air-purifying qualities, and these have been verified by scientific institutions like NASA, so we’re not just pulling your leg. 

Rubber Plants are naturally air purifying, and they’re popular for their deep coloration and high-gloss foliage. They are a great fit for spaces with richly colored decor. Snake Plants, alias Sansevierias, are likewise air-purifying, and they’re possibly the most foolproof plant for gifting there is. They’re gorgeous, they have impressive height and lush fullness, and they’re virtually indestructible. They fit seamlessly into any style, and are a stunning addition when placed in the corners of rooms, or as a pair to flank an entryway. 

Our Lucky Plant Set Duo is a great choice for gifting because it has wonderful contrast and variety. A verdant, jewel-tone Zanzibar Gem is paired with a graceful and airy Braided Money Tree in this feng shui-friendly set of plants renowned for bestowing good luck (and even monetary windfalls!) on its owner. 

Houseplants have the wonderful quality of being aesthetically flexible. At their core, they are all case studies in natural beauty, and they can blend into and enhance any style of interior decor that a given space might have, which frees you up as the gift-giver to hone in on more specific details, like light requirements, non-toxic options, and care needs. 

Every plant I’ve mentioned above is low-maintenance and easy to care for, but don’t be afraid of go off-roading as you shop! We always list this designation on the product page for our plants. Find it by clicking “Is This Plant Right for Me?”

Happy Hunting, L., and have a great trip. Viva rest and relaxation! 

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In our Dear Plant Stylist series, we share styling and lighting inquiries received by our in-house stylists with our audience. So read on-- you just might find that your plant styling questions are answered below! 

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Dear Plant Stylist,

I love plants and I want to have them in my home, but I travel a lot. I’m worried that if I take the plunge and get some, they’ll just die while I’m out of town, which would be a) expensive and b) demoralizing. Are there any truly easy-care plants that can be left alone for a week or two on end? Can I even have nice plants?

Best,

A. S. in San Diego

Dear A., 

I understand your worries, but I’m going to share a little secret with you: contrary to popular belief, there are so many beautiful plants out there that will do just fine while you’re away. In fact, most plants tend to fare better in the absence of helicopter parents!

Furthermore, most of our plants don’t require much watering-- indoor plants tend to like having their topsoil (the top two inches of soil beneath the layer of decorative moss on a Léon & George plant) dry out entirely before being watered again. 

Some of these plants are even considered drought resistant, meaning that they can go even weeks without a drop of water.

It will be useful to get a sense of the light that your space receives, so be sure to check out the Light Requirements For Plants: Explained! blog post before placing your order.

The drought-resistant Snake Plant is one of the best plants for avid travelers, as it can go weeks without water.

For large floor plants, I would recommend Monstera Deliciosas and Snake Plants. Both exhibit gorgeous height, do just fine with medium light, and need to be watered only sparingly. 

For an extra large statement plant, I’d suggest a Dracaena Lisa, which is flexible in terms of light, super-adaptable, and requires watering only when its topsoil is dry. Depending on your environment, this will likely be around every ten days to two weeks, but you can also use a moisture meter to keep track of it. 

The Dracaena Lisa is a wonderful low-maintenance statement plant to fill out tired or empty corners.

Draceana Lisas make gorgeous focal points: they average six feet in height from bottom of pot to topmost leaf, and their foliage is deeply tonal and verdant. 

A Dracaena Lisa would be best situated 5+ feet from any windows. 

For easy-care accent plants, I recommend medium Zanzibar Gems. Zanzibar Gems grow from rhizomes, which are tuber-shaped root sacs that hold water and feed it gradually to the plant. These root sacs mean that Zanzibar Gems need to be watered only rarely-- they control the amount of water they release to their foliage, and are exceptionally low-maintenance and independent because of this behavior!

The Zanzibar Gem stores water in its roots, making for an incredibly low maintenance houseplant.

One last thing to keep in mind: there are lots of solutions if you do have an eye on a plant that requires a bit more attention. Things like self-watering hydrospikes are great to plug into your thirstier plants while you’re away.

Happy planting, A! Avid travelers and indoor houseplants truly can go together like peanut butter and jelly. We usually see that over-care (like overwatering) is what bothers houseplants, not neglect. So rest easy, because your low-maintenance plants should thrive in your absence!

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If you’re longing for an Instagram-worthy plant set up but feel that it’s out of your reach, remember that practice makes perfect and with a few tricks of the trade, anyone can create a space that looks and feels straight out of an interior design magazine. Things like height, texture, and layering are simple tools that you can use to create a plant-filled living room or other space of your dreams. Read on for some interior design tips that will allow you to display your prized houseplants to their full effect.

The Rule of Three

A common rule of thumb for styling a space is to avoid even-numbered groupings as paired items tend to look a touch formal. A classic combination is a group of three, but so long as you keep the number of plants in each grouping an odd number they should look great. Here are some things to keep in mind when arranging a cluster of plants:

• Try to avoid grouping of a uniform height, as this can make all of the plants blend together. Incorporate at least one plant in each group that is noticeably taller than the rest.

• When creating a collection of plants try to group them based on some commonality, such as whether they have dense or spread out leaves or their primary hue. So long as all the plants in a grouping share at least one trait they will look natural next to one another.

Play with Textures

Textures play a big role in creating visual interest, and this isn’t just limited to furniture or room decor. Plants can play a big role in establishing variation within a space with their differing textures in foliage. When playing with texture it is important to think in terms of contrast, like pairings such as rough and smooth or minimal and detailed.

• If you favor minimalistic decor, a plant with a more a detailed appearance like the Zanzibar Gem will keep things from looking one-dimensional.

• If your home is already full of texture like layered rugs and knit throw blankets then a plant with refined glossy leaves, like as the Red Congo or Bird of Paradise, can balance things out.

Use Height to Your Advantage

When arranging your plants don’t forget to explore areas at eye level or higher. While taller plants such as Fiddle Leaf Fig Trees can usually only be displayed on the ground level, smaller plants give you the freedom to explore new heights. Here are some styling tips for getting plant off the ground:

• Get the most out of trailing plants like the Cascading Pothos by placing them on shelves and letting their vines grow out to create a lush jungle feel.

• If you have a medium-sized plant that is too big for a shelf and too small to serve as a focal point on its own try using a plant stand or end table to make it stand out.

Look For Leading Lines

When looking at your plants, ask yourself what direction their foliage naturally grows: utilizing the leading lines of a plant’s leaves can be the perfect way to draw attention to a certain area of the room. Typically you it is easiest to accomplish this with plants whose leaves point upwards or trail down, here are some examples of both types:

• Some plants whose leaves draw the eye up are the Snake Plant and the Zanzibar Gem. Use plants that point upwards to draw attention to the art on your walls or an interesting architectural feature on your ceiling.

• Plants whose trailing vines draw the eye downward are the those within the Pothos or Philodendron families. These sorts of plants can be artfully displayed on mantles or bookshelves to bring attention to your fireplace or can be placed on top of a shelf above key furniture pieces.

Keep It Colorful

While it can be tempting to perfectly color coordinate the wood of your plant’s stand to your coffee table variation is admittedly the spice of life. A way to play with color without things looking modge podge is to follow the Rule of Three from above. Typically you want to choose a primary color, a secondary color, and an accent color. Here are some other ways to make your space more colorful:

• Switch up planter colors, if you usually go for a simple white or black planters, try incorporating another color, even if it’s a neutral one like terracotta.

• Try a variegated plant for a splash of color directly on the leaves themselves. Some popular variegated varieties are the Philodendron Brasil or the Pink Rubber Tree.

Design With Your Plants’ Needs In Mind

And finally, don’t forget! No matter how beautifully you arrange indoor plants, things will start to look pretty ugly if their basic needs like light and humidity aren’t met. Make sure your plants get adequate light where they’re placed, and aren’t too close to air vents, heaters, or ACs. Now go off and arrange those plants like a pro!

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