Bringing the Outdoors In: A Guide to Large Live Plants for Indoor Spaces

Nothing quite compares to the presence and ambiance that large live plants can bring to an indoor space. With their impressive height and ample greenery, large houseplants create a warm, welcoming feel while purifying the air.

Whether you have a spacious living room with tall ceilings or a bright sun-filled office a few choice large plants can transform the entire look and feel. Read on for tips on selecting, caring for, and arranging statement-making large live plants to liven up your indoor decor.

Benefits of Large Indoor Plants

Before diving into specific plant recommendations, let’s look at why large plants are so advantageous for interior spaces:

• Presence – The height and fullness of large plants makes them true focal points. They bring life and a natural element indoors.

• Air purification – Large leafy plants help filter indoor air by absorbing pollutants Their sizable foliage ups the purification power

• Humidity – All plants release moisture into the surrounding air through transpiration. Large plants transpire more, boosting humidity.

• Homey feel – The lush greenery and pleasant scents create a warm, inviting ambiance. Large plants make indoor spaces more comfortable.

• Design impact – Big plants can influence sight lines, divide rooms, accent architectural elements, and pull together decor.

With the right selections, proper care, and strategic placement, introducing large plants enhances both aesthetics and indoor environmental quality.

Best Large Plants for Indoor Spaces

Many tropical and subtropical plants thrive indoors and adapt well to container growing. Here are some top picks for statement-making live plants:

• Fiddle leaf fig – A popular favorite, with huge, vibrant leaves on multiple stems. Prefers bright light.

• Monstera – Tropical plant with dramatic split and hole-dotted leaves. Does well in most lighting.

• Rubber plant – Glossy, oval leaves on woody stems. Very tolerant of neglect.

• Parlor palm – Arching green fronds on slender trunks. Does well in low light spots.

• Ficus tree – Elegant indoor trees with branching glossy foliage. Love bright, indirect light.

• Yucca – Architectural accent plant with spiky leaves and one thick stem. Tolerates all lighting.

• Bamboo palm – Tropical palm with long stalks topped with palm fronds. Thrives in medium light.

• Dracaena – Spiky, spear-shaped foliage on woody stems. Withstands low light areas.

• Philodendron – Tropical vine often grown as a floor plant. Heart-shaped leaves. Bright indirect light.

Mix in a few statement large plants with smaller accents for maximum impact.

Caring for Large Indoor Plants

To keep your big beauties looking their best, provide proper care based on each plant’s needs:

• Light – Most appreciate bright, indirect light. Rotate to give all sides exposure. Supplement with grow lights if needed.

• Water – Check soil frequently. Water when just slightly dry. Take size into account. Larger plants need more water.

• Humidity – Mist leaves regularly or use a humidifier to supplement humidity. Most large tropicals prefer 40-60% humidity.

• Soil – Re-pot into fresh potting mix every 2-3 years. Fertilize in spring and summer following label directions.

• Pruning – Remove dried or damaged leaves and stems to encourage new growth. Prune wayward branches as needed.

• Pests – Check under leaves for signs of insects. Treat promptly with organic sprays like neem oil or insecticidal soap.

With attentive care, your large live plants will flourish for years of enjoyment.

Displaying Large Plants in Your Home

Now for the fun part – using large plants to elevate your interior decor! Follow these tips for showstopping arrangements:

• Place tall plants like palms or ficus trees in corners to fill awkward empty spaces.

• Flank the entryway or frame a doorway with imposing plants for a striking welcome.

• Let a bold Monstera or expansive Philodendron spill down from a high shelf to draw the eye up.

• Pair a few large-leafed plants with smaller accents around a seating area for a luscious indoor oasis.

• Spotlight architectural elements like stairs or fireplaces with strategically placed specimens for accent.

• Use large plants to divide open concept rooms or delineate sitting areas with natural dividers.

• Top plant stands or plinths with substantial specimens to bring greenery up closer to eye level.

• Populate those pesky dark corners that smaller plants can’t survive in.

Don’t be afraid to move plants around until you find the perfect placement. Soon they will become living focal points that make your indoor space complete.

Shopping Tips for Large Indoor Plants

When selecting large live plants for your home, keep these tips in mind:

• Measure the space to ensure you get a plant that fits proportionately. Too small and it won’t have impact. Too large can overwhelm.

• Look for healthy foliage without significant bare or damaged spots. Avoid rootbound plants.

• Opt for plants that suit your lighting conditions. Don’t choose light-hungry plants for dark rooms.

• Pick plants that fit your decor style. Fiddle leaf figs work well with modern and contemporary rooms, while palms complement boho-chic spaces.

• For instant impact, select more mature plants that already have some height. Or start smaller and watch your plants grow.

• With very heavy floor plants, check that your flooring can support the weight without damage.

Your local nursery can help you find the perfect large plant specimens for your unique space and needs.

Enjoying Statement Plants Indoors

Adding large, architectural plants is one of the most effective ways to give your indoor space that calming, verdant feel that only nature can provide. Their striking forms make them true living sculptures.

Caring for your leafy companions develops a soothing plant parenthood ritual. And seeing your big beauties grow and thrive over the years is incredibly rewarding.

So go ahead – make a bold statement with large live plants inside your home. Their vibrant presence will bring life to any room.