Posts tagged Plants for every room

Looking for the perfect kitchen plant? Every room in your home deserves at least a bit of greenery, and the kitchen is no exception! Indoor plants not only clean our air, but they boost our mood and effortlessly beautify any space they adorn. You also don’t need to be an expert to keep them alive. Most common houseplants are pretty simple to care for, and just require a bit of light, water, and love to thrive! All the same, we’ve included a handful of low light plants that work well for kitchens with little to no natural light.

So whether your kitchen is big, small, bright, or dark, the perfect plant is out there to bring a little life into such an essential part of your home. Here are a few of our picks for the best plants for your kitchen!

Kitchen plants, hanging plants, and plants for a kitchen window — Little Hope

The Little Hope is a small version of the Hope Philopdendron, a plant that, in the wild, can grow enormous leaves over five feet tall! The smaller version of this plant is easy to care for and adds an instant splash of bright greenery to any kitchen counter or shelf.
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Plants for the kitchen, from low light to bright light and everything in between. — Cascading Pothos

The Cascading Pothos is another trailing plant that is not only fast-growing but incredibly easy to care for. True to its name, this is the best plant for hanging planters in the kitchen or a shelf or counter, and works well in both bright light and low light kitchens.
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The best plants for the kitchen — Monstera Deliciosa

For big kitchens, look for plants that make a statement! Some of our favorite large plants for kitchens include the stylish Monstera Deliciosa (pictured), which adds an instant touch of lushness to any space, or the delightful Dracaena Compacta, a tall and narrow plant that is perfect for tighter corners.
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Our recommendations for kitchen plants that bring the outdoors in — Parlor palm

An adorable addition to any kitchen countertop, the Parlor Palm thrives with plenty of humidity and medium to bright indirect light.
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10 of the best kitchen plants, for all types of kitchens! — Staghorn Fern

An adorable plant from the fern family, the Staghorn Fern is a unique piece of greenery perfect for kitchen decor. Its sage-green leaves are velvet-soft and complement neutral color palettes in the kitchen.
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Calathea Rattlesnake

Looking to add a bit more color to your kitchen? With beautifully patterned green and purple leaves, the Calathea Rattlesnake is a gorgeous indoor plant that works well for medium to bright kitchens and plenty of humidity.
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Kitchen herbs

Herbs are an obvious choice for the kitchen: you can use them while cooking, they act as a natural mosquito repellant, and of course, they smell and look beautiful! However, keep in mind that most herbs require at least six to eight hours a day of sunlight. If you have a bright kitchen window sill or similar, try keeping a few small pots of your favorite herbs, but if not, you’re better off growing them outside or on a balcony!

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Interior Design, Batch 1Léon & GeorgeAugust 29, 2022Interior Design, Plants for every room, Kitchen PlantsComment

How To Brighten A Dark Room

The sculptural Snake Plant is one of our most popular plants for dimmer spaces. Photo by @saltier

Looking to brighten that dark room in your home?You’ve come to the right place! We work with light-challenged individuals all the time to bring the darkest rooms and corners of their home or office to life. Because let’s be real: as much as we’d love to have big, bright spaces in every area of our home, the reality is that many of us are light-challenged in one way or another! Maybe your new home doesn’t have as many windows as your last, or your trendy office is essentially a concrete cube. Windowless bathroom? Dim hallway? We’ve all been there before.

But low-light rooms can be just as beautiful as their brighter counterparts, if you know how to style them of course! Read our tips on how to either embrace or overcome a room with little to no natural light.

How to brighten your space

Even if you don’t have much natural light to work with you can still create a space that feels light and airy. Here are a few tips and tricks to make your space feel brighter:

Layer whites - white reflects light, making a room feel both lighter and more spacious. Try painting your walls warm shades of white, or the ceiling a bright matte white. Look for lighter pieces of furniture or accents, layering shades of white and beige.
Use mirrors strategically - it’s no secret that mirrors also reflect light. Create a bit more of it with a beautiful mirror you love, placed just so that it reflects any light coming in.
Utilize layered lighting - a single overhead light is not going to cut it for a low-light space. Try creating layered, diffused lighting with various heights and shapes of lamps. And while we’re on the topic, use light lampshades with translucent material (i.e. linen) so that light is gently defused versus blocked.
Streamline the furniture - go for minimal pieces and avoid ornate or chunky furniture. Select pieces that allow light to pass through or under them, like ghost chairs or sofas with a bit of space below them.

Embracing the Darkness

Sometimes the best thing you can do in a dim room is embrace its moodiness:

Use bold colors and patterns - deeply rich and dark hues (and wallpapers!) can be beautiful in already-dark spaces.
Invest in statement lighting - instead of using layered lighting having one or two statement lighting fixtures will create shadows. Shadows can be alluring when styled just right.
Be a maximalist - in a dimly lit space it can be harder for pieces to stand out. Use bold accent items like brass mirrors or lush velvet fabrics that will stand out from their surroundings.

Tips for Using Plants in Low-Light Spaces

Indoor plants do wonders for any space, but maybe even more so for the darker areas of our home. Here are a few of our plant stylists’ tips on decorating low-light areas with houseplants:

Find plants that won’t miss the light - Contrary to what you might think, many plants can do just fine in a low-light setting! Do keep in mind that you will water them very infrequently, and consider using a artificial light source for truly pitch-dark spaces.
Go for brighter foliage - plants with bright green or lighter hues (think the Snake Plant or Little Hope) will pop in darker spaces. Alternatively, go for deeper greens if you’re embracing the moodiness! Plants with dark green foliage like the Zanzibar Gem or Cast Iron will give a more jungle feel.
Invest in statement greenery - when it comes to bringing a dim or dull space to life, a little bit goes a long way with a large floor plant. Invest in just a few plants, at least one that’s large and draws the eye, versus cluttering the spaces with multiple small plants.

The Best Low Light Indoor Plants

Ready to improve your space? Here are some of the best low-light houseplants that can survive and even thrive with minimal natural or artificial light:

Zanzibar Gem - the emerald-green wands of the ZZ Gem as it’s commonly called are nearly indestructible nature. It can withstand low light and neglectful watering habits.
Snake Plant - this large succulent can adapt to just about any environment and also requires little to no maintenance.
Parlor Palm - is a hardy plant that infuses a tropical atmosphere into its surroundings.
Cast Iron - the name says it all: this plant is indestructible and does well in dark, humid, and drafty spaces.

Check out our full collection of low light plants, and give your space the love and attention it deserves!

Education, Interior Design, Batch 2Léon & GeorgeAugust 17, 2022Living room plants, Plants for every room, Low light plants Comment

How To Decorate A Small Living Room With Plants

The sculptural Fiddle Leaf Fig Bush is the perfect plant for small living rooms.

Decorating a small living room can be a real challenge. From tight corners to limited lay-out options, every inch counts when it comes to small spaces. And unfortunately for many a city-dweller, more often than not we are dealing with less space than we’d hope for!

Luckily there are loads of resources to navigate decorating a small living room (thanks, Pinterest!), and just because you have limited space does not mean you can’t enjoy the beauty and benefits of indoor plants! Below are our plant stylist’s favorite picks for plants that work well for small living rooms, plus extra tips for making the most of them.

Go for height

And avoid bushiness, especially if you are looking at floor plants. If all goes well (and we hope it does!), your indoor plants will grow. Make sure you are prepared for that by opting for plants that remain relatively contained to the width of their pots — both you and your plant will appreciate the extra space.

Pro tip: The Snake Plant is one of the best indoor plants for tight spaces with its narrow, structural shape. And don’t be fooled by the word “bush” in its name — the Fiddle Leaf Fig Bush is also a great indoor plant that maintains its shape over time thanks to the support of discrete bamboo stakes that keep the plant centered and erect.

Grouping plants is a great way to decorate small living rooms with greenery, and plants like the Monstera Deliciosa and Lady Palm make a the perfect pair.

Create Groupings

Want a touch of jungle but afraid you don’t have the space? Much like you would designate a corner to a chair or other piece of furniture, create a small corner for a grouping of plants. This can have a big impact without making your space feel cluttered or claustrophobic. Start with something on the taller side, and then layer around it with smaller plants of differing foliage and shades of green. Use plant stands to elevate, always work in odd numbers (trust us — it works!), and tastefully create the perfect plant grouping.

Pro Tip: Just three plants is enough to make a simple yet eye-catching plant grouping. One of our favorite combinations is a Fiddle Leaf Fig, a Snake Plant, and a Jade Pothos — the perfect combination of varying colors and textures!

Make use of trailing foliage

If you’re decorating a small living room, odds are you’ve scoped out different shelving solutions. Make space on your shelves for a trailing plant like the Cascading Pothos — this plant grows very quickly and, if desired, will green up an entire shelving unit over time! You can place the growing vines around different areas of the shelf, or simply let it drape down from the shelf or a hanging planter.

Pro Tip: Want to decorate a wall with greenery? Use pins to prop up tendrils of a trailing plant against the wall.

The Fiddle Leaf Fig makes for the ultimate statement plant.

Embrace the statement plant

Sometimes all it takes is one piece of furniture to really transform a space, and in this case, we’re talking about a potted plant. One of the biggest challenges of decorating a small living room is the fine line between cozy and cluttered, and one way to avoid this is by investing in fewer but bigger pieces. Just one large statement plant can truly pull a room together, and also give off the illusion the space is bigger, too.

Pro Tip: If you have the light (they need a lot!), consider a tall, structural beauty like the Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree. For dimmer spaces, the Dragon Tree is a true head-turner that also functions as a wonderful air-purifier.

How are you decorating your small living room with plants? Let us know in the comments, or tag us on Instagram to show off your space!

Education, Interior Design, Batch 1Léon & GeorgeAugust 17, 2022Living room plants, Plants for every roomComment

The Absolute Best Plants For A Bedroom

Looking for the perfect houseplant for your bedroom?

The bedroom is one of the most intimate places in our home. It’s where we go to rest, relax, and recharge, and in many ways serves as a sanctuary for our bodies and minds.

Indoor plants can help create the perfect environment for some quality R&R, and their benefits go far beyond simply beautifying the space. Natural greenery has a long list of mental health benefits, helping to reduce stress and boost feel-good chemicals in our brain. They also aide in cleaning the air by filtering out harmful toxins often produced by common household items like carpet, paint, or the finish on our furniture.

Almost any living plant will improve your bedroom’s atmosphere, so when selecting your plants for the bedroom, choose something that speaks to you and that you will enjoy waking up to each day. For a bit of inspiration, read on to find our plant stylists’ picks for the best plants for your bedroom!

The Best plants for a Bedroom:

Snake Plant

Voted by Nasa as one of the best air-purifying plants, the Snake Plant is one of the best choices for the bedroom thanks to its unique ability to emit oxygen at nighttime, making for better and sounder sleep.
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Fiddle Leaf Fig

Serene and structural, the Fiddle Leaf Fig is an excellent choice for the brightly-lit bedroom, instantly creating a magazine-like feel in any space it adorns.
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Pink Rubber Plant

Add a splash of color to your bedroom with the Pink Rubber Plant, a lovely air-purifying ficus ideal for spaces with plenty of bright indirect light.
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Rubber Tree

The Ficus Elastica, or the Rubber Tree as it’s commonly known, is an excellent air purifier with deep burgundy leaves, guaranteed to bring beauty and calm to your bedroom oasis.
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Queen of Spades Anthurium

Bring everlasting flowers to your bedside table with the Queen of Spades Anthurium, an easy-care “flowering” plant that brightens any space and refreshes the air.
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Parlor Palm

Palms in general are known for their air-purifing qualities, and the Parlor Palm is no exception. This adorable plant comes in a variety of sizes and will bring instant jungle vibes to your bedroom. If you have the space, go for an extra large Kentia Palm.
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Need more inspiration? Check out how to make your bedroom a sanctuary, with tips from the experts at Parachute.

Interior Design, LifestyleLéon & GeorgeJuly 13, 2022Bedroom Plants, Plant Benefits, Lifestyle, Interior Design, Plants for every roomComment

The 10 All-Time Best Botanical Gardens

Huntington Botanical Garden, Pasadena CA — Photo Courtesy Orchid Digest

The U.S. has no shortage of beautiful outdoor spaces, but for a dose of tranquility and inspiration (not to mention a dreamy picnic spot!), we think that botanical gardens offer a truly special experience.

Because they’re frequently located in urban areas, botanical gardens are able to make the full spectrum of nature’s beauty accessible and offer us a glimpse into environments we might otherwise never see. (Where else but at a botanical garden could you find a desert landscape of cacti and succulents, and a water garden complete with lotuses and turtles!) Additionally, many botanical gardens in the US have put extra care into physical accessibility, which means that these outdoors spaces can be enjoyed by people with limited mobility- and that level of accessibility can be hard to come by in other public spaces and preserves, where paths are often less well-tended and accessibility-friendly landscape architecture is less common.

We’ve rounded up the very best of the best big botanical gardens in the US for this list. But if these far-flung locations are a bit outside your stomping ground, you still have a tremendous bouquet of options! There are so many local gardens across our country, both big and small, and all can offer a wonderful way to spend a day in contemplation and wonder with family and friends.

Huntington Library, San Marino, California — Photo Courtesy Visit Pasadena

1. Huntington Library- Pasadena, CA

A fine art museum, research institution and botanical garden, the Huntington Library is not to be missed if you find yourself in Los Angeles County. Featuring 120 acres of landscaped gardens, as well as a substantial collection of 17th to mid-20th century European and American art, The Huntington may well be the jewel in the crown of Pasadena, itself a city beloved for its abundant historical architecture and cultural institutions. Don’t miss the Huntington’s Amorphophallus titanum, or Corpse Flower, an enormous, carnivorous plant with a Jurassic appearance and, yes, an unforgettably funky odor!

2. San Francisco Botanical Garden- San Francisco, CA

Located in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, the San Francisco Botanical Garden is renowned for its variety of beautifully curated gardens, from its tremendous Ancient Plant Garden to its Moon Viewing Garden, which features Japanese stone pagodas and enchanting pools. The San Francisco Botanical Garden is equally beloved for its events, including the Flower Piano series, a yearly event in which piano concerts are held al fresco in the Garden’s verdant groves.

3. Missouri Botanical Garden- St. Louis, MO

With over 4,800 living trees and 89 acres of gardens, The Missouri Botanical Garden is unforgettable to all who visit. Featuring an Ottoman Garden, Chinese Garden and a thriving rainforest of tropical plants within the Climatron Conservatory, this botanical garden is one of the nation’s largest. Its Japanese Garden alone spans over 14 acres, and with cultural days, plant shows and seed sales all on the calendar, the Missouri Botanical Garden offers an abundance of horticultural experiences year-round.

4. Atlanta Botanical Garden- Atlanta, GA

In the heart of Atlanta’s Midtown lies the Atlanta Botanical Garden. There are 30 acres of outdoor gardens to enjoy, including the iconic Storza Woods, which spans ten acres and features sculptural installations by Dale Chihuly. The Atlanta Botanical Garden has been dazzling visitors and fostering horticultural research since 1973, and is home to The Southeastern Center for Conservation, which works with partner institutions to foster habitat restoration, biodiversity research and more.

Fairchild Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Columbus, OH — Photo Courtesy Experience Columbus

5. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens- Columbus, OH

Founded in 1993, the grounds of the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens encompass the historical John D. Wolfe Palm House, constructed in 1895. If you haven’t yet visited, we guarantee you’ve never seen anything quite like the John D. Wolfe Palm House: a massive, Victorian glass greenhouse which is home to 43 species of palms. The Palm House also features a Ficus lyrata, or Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree, that was planted around the time the house itself was erected. That’s right, a Fiddle from Victorian times! In case you’re wondering: yes, it’s massive, brushing the ceilings of the sky-high greenhouse itself!

ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, Albuquerque, New Mexico — Photo Courtesy Trekearth

6. ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden- Albuquerque, NM

Albuquerque’s BioPark is itself a tremendous achievement, featuring a zoo, aquarium, botanical garden and a beach with fishing ponds containing trout and catfish. Clearly, there’s something for everyone! But we’re preoccupied by its exceptional botanical garden, which spans 52 acres and features a 10,000 square foot glass conservatory, a Japanese garden and a 10 acre heritage farm.

US Botanic Garden, Washington, DC — Photo Courtesy United States Botanic Garden

7. United States Botanic Garden, Washington DC

The United States Botanical Garden is the stuff of legend: it’s the oldest continuously operating public garden in the country, with construction dating back to the 1830s. The garden has seen various iterations of development since then, and now features a Primeval Garden, Hawaiian Garden, an Orchid Garden with over 5,000 specimens, and more. Its iconic, glass-clad greenhouse was built in 1933 and contains almost 29,000 square feet of growing space. The United States Botanic Garden’s National Garden is something that we can all be proud of: a three-acre array of plants endemic to the mid-Atlantic, featuring a Rose Garden and the First Ladies Water Garden, adorned with gorgeous tile fountains and dedicated to- you guessed it- America’s First Ladies!

8. New York Botanical Garden, New York NY

Located in the Bronx, the New York Botanical Garden was founded in 1891 on the northern half of Bronx Park, alongside the Bronx River, rocky gorges and 50 acres of old-growth American forest. At 250 acres, the New York Botanical Garden is the country’s largest, and it’s chock-full of diverse landscapes and gardens. Among the standouts are its Orchid Collection, located in the Conservatory’s Rainforest Galleries, an expansive conifer arboretum, and the Cherry Collection, which features over 200 flowering cherry trees, with blossoms in shades of pink and white.

9. Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe IL

Since 1965, the Chicago Botanic Garden has charmed visitors with its ample gardens, situated along six miles of lakeside coastline. It features a 17 acre Japanese Garden containing three islands, a renowned bonsai collection, and a sensory garden, cultivated to showcase plants that engage our senses of smell and touch as well as sight. (Tasting the plants might be taking it a little too far.) The six miles of coastline set the Chicago Botanic Garden apart as one of the most aesthetically beautiful and horticulturally diverse public gardens: the lake, and the six islands it contains, are home to an array of plant varieties you simply won’t see anywhere else.

Photo courtesy Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

10. Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, Coral Gables FL

Constructed in the 1930s, the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden is the stuff green dreams are made of. This Miami wonder features a tropical flower garden, a collection of water gardens cultivated within 11 lakes and seven pools, breathtaking waterfalls and so much more. Floridians are renowned for loving their plants, and the moist environment enjoyed by the Fairchild (along with its passionate staff of horticulturalists) means that the tropical plants you’ll discover here are among the most gorgeous in the world. Don’t miss the Butterfly Garden or the frankly mind-blowing Jewels of the Caribbean exhibit, which features 7,000 plant species exclusively found on the Caribbean islands.

So there you have it- ten of the most breathtaking botanical gardens that the U.S. has to offer! Are you putting these on your to-do list? We know we are- what better way to explore the country than to visit its most vibrant and gorgeous public spaces?

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LifestyleLéon & GeorgeApril 29, 2022Lifestyle, Plant Stylists, Plants for every room, Plant ShopComment

The 10 Best Plants For A Bohemian Space

Bohemian Sitting Room with Bird of Paradise, Pink Rubber Tree and Kentia Palm — Bohemian spaces are at their best with ample, vibrant greenery. Stylings by @theweekendmixologist

The bohemian look never goes out of style, but it does evolve. And so do you! Luckily, there are plenty of directions to explore when our hearts are set on a bohemian aesthetic. Whether you’re inclined toward a neutral, earthy palette or a rich array of vibrant color, your design dreams are in reach. The one thing that successful bohemian spaces can’t do without? You guessed it: plants. Vibrant, living plants are a mainstay of bohemian decor, and it’s easy to see why: they’re lush, sculptural, and bursting with life. But not every bohemian abode calls for the same leafy greenery, and we’ve curated an array of perfect plants for your pad. Read on to discover enchanting curtains of trailing foliage, palms that brings the vibe of a permanent vacation, and even more leafy options to sparkle in your bohemian space.

schefflera TREE

Luxe, bohemian style doesn’t have to be high-maintenance. With flexible light requirements and a decidedly easy-going watering routine, The Schefflera Tree, or Umbrella Plant, is the definition of a shoo-in. This bountiful statement tree features an iconic canopy of fluttering foliage and is an age-old favorite of the feng shui tradition, legendary for bestowing good fortune, fulfillment and prosperity to its owner by capturing positive chi in its umbrella-shaped fronds. And there’s even more good news: the Schefflera is also a scientifically proven, potent air purifier that converts carbon monoxide to oxygen while removing toxins like benzene and formaldehyde from the air.

Bird Of Paradise

If you’re looking to emulate paradise in your space, the Bird of Paradise is a great way to go about it! These gorgeous statement plants feature enormous foliage, renowned for its bright coloration and trademark feathery splits and frays. Birds of Paradise can grow exceptionally large, but you might be surprised to learn that they’re among the most low-maintenance plants available for indoor spaces. Their needs are simple: direct sunlight (as much as possible!) and occasional light watering, exclusively when their topsoil is dry.

Dracaena Lisa

Towering statement plants are a trademark of bohemian style, and the Dracaena Lisa is emblematic of luxury and abundance. But it gets even better: these sultry beauties are also low-maintenance and genuinely easy to care for. Like a carefree friend that’s always happy to come along for the ride, the Dracaena Lisa is laid-back and flexible. Tolerant of varied light, Dracaena Lisas seem to thrive effortlessly, and require water only sparingly, when their topsoil is dry to the touch. With a tall and slender structure, their deep, emerald foliage makes the Dracaena Lisa an instantly mysterious, rich focal point.

Zanzibar Gem

Dreamy texture: the Zanzibar Gem is an ideal plant variety for bohemian spaces, with long, slim wands of luscious foliage. Available in a wide variety of sizes, Zanzibar Gems evoke a tropical aesthetic and can thrive even in very low light. They’re a great plant from corner or hallway placement, and can maintain beautiful health where many other plants cannot. If you need a gorgeous plant that is just as content to dance in the shadows as it is to bask in light, the Zanzibar Gem is it.

Ficus Audrey Tree

For greenery that defines elegance and nuance, the coveted Ficus Audrey the gold standard. Serene and romantic, the Ficus Audrey Tree features a graceful, slim trunk and a canopy of delicate, spade-shaped foliage.The Ficus Audrey Tree requires bright, indirect sunlight to thrive, and is native to India and Pakistan. Also known as the Banyan Tree, rumor has it that Buddha attained enlightenment while meditating beneath a Ficus Audrey. And if that makes you picture a towering tree, you’d be right! The Ficus Audrey can grow quickly with appropriate care, and have been known to even exceed 100 feet in height in the wild.

Pink Rubber Tree

Color is key to a bohemian look, whether your palette consists of rich sands and grays or is awash in waves of vibrant hues. (We think both approaches are stunning!) Pink Rubber Trees add a gentle splash of rosy tones with variegated foliage in shades of strawberry and jade. Perfect for adding intrigue to sunny spaces, the Pink Rubber Tree brings a natural, elegant ombre coloration to any room, and its pink tones will deepen and brighten with steady light.

Dracaena Compacta

A laddered canopy of foliage is a wonderful way to inject your space with dimension and sculptural appeal. Enter the Dracaena Compacta: a gorgeous, easy-care statement plant with multiple slender trunks crowned with lush pom-poms of jewel-like, emerald foliage. Because of their slim structure and laddered formation, Dracaena Compactas are ideal for corner placement. They thrive in medium light and require little attention to flourish, needing water only when their topsoil is dry to the touch.

monstera deliciosa

The Monstera Deliciosa defines wild beauty with sculptural, textured foliage, and is prized for its ability to grow abundantly. This large Philodendron variety is low maintenance and adaptable to medium light. If you’re looking for a cheerful and energetic burst of color, the Monstera Deliciosa hits the spot. Just gazing at a Monstera is sure to boost your mood, and watching them grow is a wonder. Enchanted by the vents and splits and their leaves? You can get even more by placing your Monstera in a bright, sunny spot. Water sparingly and your Monstera will reward you with generous (even rapid!) growth.

Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree

Possibly the most downright envied statement tree on the scene, the Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree is a seamless addition to luxurious, bohemian spaces. With large, violin-shaped leaves and a tall, slender trunk, the Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree is a breathtaking tree for owners with some plant experience. Fiddles require a light touch to thrive and should not be overwatered, but once you familiarize yourself with your tree’s needs, the reward cannot be overstated. A Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree’s sprawling canopy of gorgeous foliage, aglow in afternoon light, is a sight you won’t soon forget.

ponytail palm

If your environment is blessed with a super-bright spot (maybe where your cat’s always napping, or where your cacti soak up the sun) then congratulations! You’ve identified the perfect place for a charming and energetic new Ponytail Palm. These lushly textured floor plants are from the Agave family, so you know what they want: plenty of light and very little water! Their thick trunks hold moisture, so Ponytail Palms are truly a plant you can set and forget. They typically need water every two weeks or less.

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LifestyleLéon & GeorgeApril 19, 2022Lifestyle, Plant Stylists, Plants for every room, Plant ShopComment

The 10 Best Plants For A Romantic Space

A romantic style of interior design and decor can be tricky to do well. After all, you are looking to create a dreamy, comfortable and evocative space, not a room filled with doilies and dried roses. And the romantic aesthetic has never been more popular: from Regency (Hello, Bridgerton!) to bohemian looks, to the sleek and glossy romance of the early aughts, there are many interior style paths that can lead to a stunning, romantic impression. But they all have one thing in common: a vivid, fresh dimension of living greenery. Gorgeous statement plants are timeless, and they may just be the one decor item that is truly non-negotiable. Luckily, nature provides. So read on, and get to know the ten absolute best plants to enhance your romantic space!

Ficus Audrey Tree

What do you think of when you think of Audrey? Us too! Epitomizing grace, effortless style and romance, the Ficus Audrey Tree is a superstar in the world of indoor greenery. With a slim, gracious trunk and a gentle canopy of vibrantly hued, spade-shaped foliage, the Ficus Audrey is a serene and stately floor plant. Not to be overshadowed, the Ficus Audrey Tree will thrive in a prized spot in your home that receives bright, indirect sunlight. Native to India and Pakistan, the Ficus Audrey is also known as the Banyan Tree, and has natural air-purifying properties. If you’re looking for a tree that will attain great heights, the Ficus Audrey is a wonderful choice: they can grow quickly when well-cared for, and have been known to grow as tall as 100 feet in the wild!

Pink Rubber Plant

Add a touch of enchanting pink tones with the gently variegated Pink Rubber Plant. Ideal as a centerpiece, or to accent a coffee table or vanity, the Pink Rubber Plant boasts foliage in hues of strawberry and mint. This ornamental ficus is a seamless way to add spellbinding tie-dye coloration to a space, and as with the Rubber Tree, its pink tones will brighten and deepen with steady natural light.

Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree

If you’re the sort that never settles, especially when it comes to feathering your nest, the Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree should be at the top of your list. Talk about the best of the best: Fiddle Leaf Fig Trees are the most envy-inducing statement tree on the market. From the crisp pages of Architectural Digest to the homes of your most discerning friends, it’s likely that you have seen a Fiddle in situ before. But nothing compares to buying your own Fiddle and watching it flourish. Elegant, violin shaped foliage and a sky-high, slender trunk make this plant the pinnacle of modern romance. Be prepared to lavish your Fiddle with love in the form of ample bright, indirect light. But when it comes to water: play a little hard to get. If you baby your Fiddle with too-frequent waterings, it may scorn you and drop leaves. But treat it with a light touch, and it will dazzle you with gorgeous foliage and health.

King Of Hearts Anthurium

Sometimes you can’t go wrong with a classic. That adage is especially true when you need a pop of crimson color (who doesn't?) to brighten the palette of your space. Look no further than the King of Hearts Anthurium: nature’s answer to the heart-shaped box. With ruby-toned, spade-shaped blossoms, this flowering plant is energetic and playful, but elegant enough to be placed in any room. A successful romantic aesthetic is like viewing your world through rose-colored glasses: it makes the everyday more enchanting, and brings an element of pleasure to well-trod spaces. And with the resilient King of Hearts Anthurium, your pleasure garden can blossom year-round. That’s right! This plant can blossom all year long.

Zanzibar Gem

The definition of lush: the Zanzibar Gem is a luxurious, tropical jewel of a statement plant and is perfect for floor placement. With slender wands of luscious foliage, Zanzibar Gems add an element of graceful height to spaces with varied light. They grow best in spots that receive a good amount of indirect sunlight, but are highly adaptable, so they’re also a safe option for environments that are a bit dark (and mysterious!).

Sunshine Calandiva

Playful texture and an abundant cloud of golden yellow blossoms make the Sunshine Calandiva a welcome beam of light for any space. Their note of touchable, soft blooms is perfect for illuminating areas that are otherwise spare- or you can add them to an eclectic palette for an additional burst of color and lacey allure. Calandivas are a succulent variety that will produce ample flowers year-round with appropriate light and care.

Dracaena Compacta

For another dose of gorgeous texture, a Dracaena Compacta is ideal. Their laddered structure means that you get a ton of bang for your buck: multiple slender, tactile trunks topped with vibrant pom-poms of dense, emerald foliage. Dracaena Compactas are perfect for corner placement: a rare feature that should never be overlooked. And because they do thrive in medium light, there’s no need for special care. They were made to dazzle and require little attention, requiring water only when their topsoil is dry to the touch.

Queen Of Spades Anthurium

Again, we come back to the old adage: say it with flowers! Another effortless flowering variety, the Queen Of Spades Anthurium is the natural consort of the King of Hearts. Gorgeous, heart-shaped leaves and snowy white blossoms crown this easy-care ornamental plant, which is perfectly content to bloom year-round when well cared for. Place it in a spot that receives ample light, and count how many blossoms your Queen provides!

Rubber Tree

Intrigue and sultry coloration unite in the gorgeous Rubber Tree. With film-noir appeal and super-glossy, large leaves, the Rubber Tree is a little bit mysterious, and entirely charming. Its foliage features a palette of deep emerald and vibrant scarlet tones that are instantly evocative and, of course, romantic. Place a Rubber Tree in a spot that receives plenty of indirect sun, and its red hues will shine bright: Rubber Trees produce that crimson hue in accordance with the amount of light their leaves receive.

Dracaena Lisa

There’s nothing more romantic than perching beneath a towering curtain of foliage. For an unforgettable statement, the Dracaena Lisa is a perfect choice. Naturally slender and tall, they’re also exceptionally easy to care for. Healthy plants are paramount for successful interior design, and a Dracaena Lisa is ideal in this regard. They are truly low-maintenance, adjustable and require water only when their topsoil is dry to the touch. All reasons that Dracaena Lisas get our vote of confidence, not to mention the fact that they’re beautifully textured and deeply colorful

Now that you’ve selected your plants, learn all you need to know about these gorgeous, romantic varieties of greenery! Information on how to care for the plants listed above, as well as guidance for troubleshooting common plant care issues, is all available at La Residence.

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LifestyleLéon & GeorgeMarch 25, 2022Lifestyle, Plant Stylists, Plants for every room, Plant ShopComment

The 10 Best Plants For A Modern Space

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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Lifestyle, Batch 2Léon & GeorgeMarch 15, 2022Lifestyle, Plant Stylists, Plant Stories, Plants for every room, Plant ShopComment

What You Need To Know Before You Buy A Bird Of Paradise

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

Extra Large Bird of Paradise with Mid-Century Pot From Leon and George

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.

Shop The Extra Large Bird of Paradise With Mid-Century Pot and Wood Stand From Leon and George

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.

Bird of Paradise Foliage and Leaves From Leon and George

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.

Large Bird of Paradise With Mid-Century Pot From Leon and George — 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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Lifestyle, Batch 2Léon & GeorgeMarch 10, 2022Lifestyle, Plant Stylists, Plant Stories, Plants for every room, Plant ShopComment

5 Lush and Lavish Plant-Inspired Zoom Backgrounds

Remote office need a little sprucing? Or perhaps there’s simply an absolute mess behind you, which you completely forgot tidy up before your 8am meeting. Of course a living plant will drastically improve your Zoom game, but in the meantime, here’s a gift from us to you: a few backdrops to instantly put some lush greenery in your corner! Tested by our team and Plant Stylist approved, you can’t go wrong with a beautiful, plant-filled background.

How to use: simply right click, save, and upload to Zoom! Keep in mind that once you’ve set it as your background, the logo will read backwards for you (but not your audience).

Working In Paradise

Morning Light

Urban Oasis

At Home With Léon & George

Parisian Cafe

Interior Design, Batch 2Léon & GeorgeAugust 19, 2021Plants for every room, LifestyleComment