Monstera 'Thai Constellation'
If you are looking for a plant 'that will make a big statement, it's worth getting a variegated Monstera deliciosa,' says Jeanie Psomas, plant expert and owner of The Plant Lady: San Francisco.
– Light: This plant prefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate low light, but it may not grow as well. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch and damage the leaves. – Watering: The 'most common issue with monstera plants is overwatering,' Jeannie says. 'These plants are more drought tolerant than most people assume, so it is recommended to allow them to dry out between waterings.' – Soil: Use a free-draining potting mix, combining a mixture of perlite, bark and potting soil to create a soil mix that has good drainage and is nutrient-rich. – Fertilizing: Jeannie recommends using a 'foliage-focused fertilizer that is higher in nitrogen to support the leaves of this plant.' Using a general fertilizer such as this Indoor Plant Food from Greendigs would be ideal. – Care: 'It is important to note that this plant will get quite large over time,' Jeannie says, so finding a suitable location where you are happy to let the plant grow is key.
Marble Queen Pothos
'I love mixing variegated species into my plant collection because they add so much contrast and color to the plant family,' says Nick Cutsumpas, plant expert and founder of Farmer Nick. One mood-boosting plant that can do this is the marble queen pothos, which Nick says is 'great for trailing off of a bookshelf.'
– Light: As with most variegated leaves, Nick recommends opting for a location with 'bright, indirect light.' Importantly, variegated leaves are sensitive and 'too much light can cause burning and browning,' Nick says. – Watering: When the top 1/2 - 1 inch of soil is dry to the touch, water your pothos, ensuring that the water can drain freely. Do not allow the soil to stay too wet or dry out for extended periods, as this will damage the plant. – Soil: Use a free-draining potting mix, combining a mixture of perlite with soil to create a soil mix that is well-draining. Ensure that water can drain from your container. – Fertilizing: As a fast-growing indoor plant, pothos plants can benefit from regular feeding through the spring and summer. Using a general house plant fertilizer, such as this indoor plant food from Walmart.com would be suitable. – Care: Considered one of the best indoor hanging plants, this pothos and other variegated plants can be 'used as an accent color that pops among the green background,' Nick says. Your pothos plant may need some support and/or tying in as it grows in length.
Pink Princess Philodendron
The Philodendron 'Pink Princess' is 'famous for its attractive heart-shaped leaves with pink and green variegation,' says Vladan Nikolic, houseplant expert and founder of Mr Houseplant. This plant is a unique take on the standard green philodendron varieties that also add impact to any indoor space.
– Light: 'Avoid overexposure to direct light,' Vladan says. Ideally, your philodendron should have 'no more than 2 - 3 hours of weak sunlight'. The key point to remember is bright, indirect light is always preferable. – Watering: Vladan recommends 'watering your philodendron only when the top 2 inches of soil dry out'. Place your finger just underneath the soil level to assess the moisture level in the soil. – Soil: Use a potting mix combined with drainage material, such as with bark or perlite to create a soil mix that is well-draining. Ensure that drainage holes are not clogged up, and that water can pass through the soil and the container easily. – Fertilizing: When considering how to care for your philodendron, plants can benefit from regular feeding through the spring and summer. Apply a monthly feed, diluting as necessary, using an organic plant food such as this liquid fertilizer for indoor plants at Perfect Plants. – Care: 'Prune your philodendron if you notice any dead or diseased stems,' Vladan says. In doing so you will encourage the plant to expend energy on new and healthy growth.
Stromanthe Triostar
Stromanthe triostar, or Stromanthe sanguinea, is an underrated houseplant especially when you 'consider its stunning pink, purple, and white variegated foliage,' Vladan says. Whilst not the easiest plant to look after, by finding the right spot in your home and with some basic maintenance you will be able to enjoy the foliage of this tropical-looking plant.
– Light: This is a tropical plant, and dappled, indirect light is preferable. 'Prolonged exposure to direct light can lead to leaf scorching and the leaves turning brown,' Vladan says. – Watering: Understanding when to water your indoor plants is critical. Water your triostar 'when the top 2 inches of the soil dry out,' Vladan continues. 'The watering schedule will depend on environmental factors, such as light, humidity, and warmth, so it is best to always check the soil using your finger to avoid overwatering or underwatering.' – Soil: It is preferable to grow your triostar in a potting mix with added drainage and nutrient material. You can 'make your own potting mix by amending any commercial potting mix with 1 part of perlite and 1 part of bark.' – Fertilizing: Vladan recommends repotting your triostar plant once a year, meaning that 'you don’t have to fertilize it, because it will get all the important nutrients from the fresh soil. – Care: 'Inspect your Triostar regularly,' Vladan says. 'If you notice any diseased, sick, damaged, or dead plant parts, you should prune them to avoid further damage and to keep the plant healthy.'