Gardening

20 Big Leaf Plants To Showcase Indoor Beauty

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Big-leaf houseplants make stunning statement pieces, filling empty corners and elevating decor with their dramatic foliage. They also purify the air, creating a healthier environment.

Despite their size, they're not overly demanding; just provide proper sunlight, hydration, and food. Ready to transform your space? Check out our list of indoor plants perfect for creating a tropical haven.

1. Tropic Snow Dumb Cane

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•  Name: Tropic Snow dumb cane (Dieffenbachia seguine 'Tropic Snow') 

•  Water: Water when the soil is dry



•  Soil: Well-draining potting medium

•  Light: Bright to low light

•  Mature Size: 4-10 ft. tall, 2-3 ft. wide

•  Pet-Friendly: No

• Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)

•  Humidity: Moderate to High

The Tropic Snow Dumb Cane is popular amongst indoor plant enthusiasts due to its ease of care and stunning foliage. With proper care, these large foliage plants will thrive and add a touch of the tropics to your home.

This beautiful variegated variety of dumb cane offers a surprising amount of tolerance for neglect. Plus, it thrives in low light conditions and doesn't require constant attention, making it ideal for forgetful plant parents or dimly lit spaces.

2. Monstera Deliciosa

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•  Name: Swiss cheese plant (Monstera deliciosa)

•  Water: Water when the soil is dry

•  Soil: Well-draining, rich potting medium

•  Light: Bright indirect light to medium indirect light

•  Mature Size: 3 -15 ft. tall, 3-8 ft. wide

•  Pet-Friendly: No

 Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)

•  Humidity: Moderate to High

Widely known as the Swiss Cheese Plant, the Monstera Deliciosa adds a whole new personality to your living spaces. And it's easy to see why! These indoor plants with large, glossy green leaves develop distinctive splits and holes as the plant matures, adding a tropical touch to your living room. 

Furthermore, if you are a large leaf plants fanatic, this plant might be the perfect one for you as it can grow quite large and climb too. If provided with a moss pole oe other kind of support, these plants can reach to it's full potential.

3. Calathea Pinstripe

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 Name: Calathea Pinstripe (Calathea Ornata)

•  Water: When the top inch of soil dries out

•  Soil: Well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix

•  Light: Bright indirect light

•  Mature Size: 1-2 feet 

•  Pet-Friendly: Yes

•  Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)

•  Humidity: High

When it comes to statement indoor plants, Calathea Pinstripe is the real showstopper. It is one of the stunning flowering large leaf houseplant known for its green, glossy leaves adorned with vibrant pink or white stripes, creating a mesmerizing contrast.

It is a stunning plant that rewards attentive care with its mesmerizing beauty and air-purifying properties. If you're willing to provide the right environment, this Calathea can become a cherished jewel in your indoor plant collection.

4. Ruffled Fan Palm

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•  Name: Ruffled fan palm (Licuala grandis)

 Water: Average water needs

•  Soil: Well-draining potting medium

 Light: Bright to medium indirect light

•  Mature Size: 5-6 ft. tall and wide

 Pet-Friendly: Yes

•  Temperature: 75-80°F (24-27°C).

•  Humidity: High

Licuala grandis, commonly known as Ruffled Fan Palm, is among the slow-growing but rewarding plants with big leaves. It is an elegant palm tree with distinctive, round, pleated leaves that resemble a fan.

While this plant thrives outdoors basking in the sun, when kept indoors, it prefers bright, indirect light. Caring for plants is like taking care of your children or pet, so be mindful of direct sunlight, as it may scorch the leaves.

5. Fiddle Leaf Fig

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•  Name: Fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata)

•  Water: Water when the soil is dry

 Soil: Rich, well-draining potting medium

•  Light: Bright indirect light

•  Mature Size: 6-10 ft. tall, 3-4 ft wide

•  Pet-Friendly: No

Fiddle Leaf Figs are among the big leaf houseplants that prefer bright, indirect light. So, it is best to avoid direct sunlight to save those leaves from scorching. Thus, opting for a south, east or west-facing window with sheers or blinds is ideal. This provides bright, indirect light that nourishes the plant without burning it.
 
It is a statuesque plant with large, glossy violin-shaped leaves. Over the years, it has become a popular choice to decorate indoor spaces as it reflects architectural form and lush foliage.

6. Philodendron Gloriosum

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 Name: Creeping velvet philodendron (Philodendron gloriosum)

•  Water: Water when the top one to two inches of soil is dry

•  Soil: Rich, well-draining potting medium

•  Light: Bright indirect sunlight

•  Mature Size: 2.5-3 ft. tall and wide

•  Pet-Friendly: No

Unlike its common philodendron cousins, the Philodendron gloriosum is a rare find. This plants big leaf is stunningly large, with a velvety texture in a deep green shade, adorned with eye-catching white veins. While it might require a little extra effort to find, this houseplant is a true treasure for plant enthusiasts.

As it is a rare plant, you have to be extra careful while caring for it. Therefore, for optimal growth, aim for a temperature between 65-80°F (18-27°C). Also, keep this plant away from cold drafts, radiators, or air conditioners.
Also, rotate the pot regularly to ensure even growth and prevent your Gloriosum from leaning towards the light source.

7. Elephant Ear Plant (Alocasia)

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•  Name: Elephant ear (Colocasia spp.)

•  Water: Keep the soil moist

 Soil: Well-draining, peat-rich potting medium

•  Light: Bright indirect sunlight

 Mature Size: 3–6 feet tall and wide, depending on the variety

•  Temperature:  65-80°F (18-27°C)

•  Pet-Friendly: No

The Elephant Ear Plant is a stunning genus of tropical perennial plants prized for their dramatic, large foliage. These leafy giant plant large leaf add a touch of the jungle to any indoor space and come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. Mostly, these plants prefer indirect bright light, so choose a room with east or west-facing windows to avoid direct sunlight.

Regarding humidity, it thrives in moderate to high humidity, so you can place it on a pebble tray filled with water. Or you can use your humidifier to mimic their natural tropical environment.

8. Dracaena Fragrans Green

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•  Name: Dracaena Fragrans

•  Water: Water as the soil dries

•  Soil: Well-draining, standard houseplant soil

•  Light: Bright-medium indirect light

•  Mature Size: 3–6 feet tall and wide, depending on variety.

•  Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C). Avoid cold drafts.

•  Pet-Friendly: Yes

The Dracaena Fragrans, also commonly known as the Corn Plant or False Palm Tree, is a versatile and easygoing plant that injects a touch of sophistication and clean air into any indoor space. With its low maintenance needs and adaptability to various temperatures, it's a great choice for both beginners and experienced plant enthusiasts. 

This plant boasts glossy, sword-like leaves that emerge in a vibrant green color. These leaves mature and darken over time, adding depth and visual interest.

9. Peace Lily Plant

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•  Name: Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

•  Water: Water as the top inch of soil dries out.

•  Soil: Well-draining, standard houseplant soil

•  Light: Bright indirect light

•  Mature Size: 1–4 feet tall

•  Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C). Avoid cold drafts.

•  Pet-Friendly: No

•  Humidity: Moderate to high (misting or humidifier recommended).

Peace Lilies produce stunning white, spathe-shaped flowers that rise gracefully above lush green foliage. It thrives in moderately lit environments and doesn't require frequent watering.

10. Banana Tree Plant

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 Name: Banana tree plant (Musa spp.)

•  Water: Keep soil moist but not waterlogged

•  Soil: Rich, well-draining potting medium

•  Light: Full sun

•  Mature Size: 2–30 ft. tall, 1–15 ft. wide depending on species

•  Temperature:  65-80°F (18-27°C)

•  Pet-Friendly: Yes

•  Humidity: High humidity

If you're up for a true challenge and have the space, the Banana Tree Plant can be a rewarding addition to your indoor jungle. Given proper care and fertilizers, this plant can grow quite large indoors, reaching up to 10 feet or more.

Regarding its fruit production, the banana tree gives fruits if placed outdoors. Some of its varieties may flower indoors as well, but it is uncommon to get edible fruits due to pollination limitations.

11. Rubber Tree

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•  Name: Rubber tree (Ficus elastica) 

•  Water: Keep the soil moist during the growing season

•  Soil: Well-draining potting medium

•  Light: Direct light

•  Mature Size: 6-10 ft. tall, 2-3 ft. wide

•  Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)

•  Pet-Friendly: No

•  Humidity: Adaptable

The Rubber Tree helps remove common toxins like formaldehyde from the air, promoting a healthier indoor environment. It has stunning foliage with large glossy green leaves with a leathery texture that adds elegance to your space. Also, new leaves emerges with a reddish hue further adding layers of visual interest.

This plant is mainly adaptable to average household humidity levels, although occasional misting or a pebble tray can be beneficial. Interestingly, Rubber Trees can grow aerial roots, which can add to their unique character.

12. White Bird of Paradise

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 Name: White Bird-of-Paradise (Strelitzia Nicolai) 

•  Water: Water when the top inch of soil dries out.

•  Soil: Well-draining potting medium

•  Light: Bright Indirect sunlight

•  Mature Size: up to 10 feet,  6-8 feet wide

•  Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)

•  Pet-Friendly: No

•  Humidity: Moderate 

The White Bird-of-Paradise is a show-stopping plant for those with the space to accommodate its majestic presence. Its architectural form, easygoing nature (for a large plant), and potential for rare blooms make it a conversation starter and a unique addition to any indoor environment. 

Also known as wild banana, this stunning plant brings a majestic touch of the tropics indoors. Unlike its orange-flowered cousin, Strelitzia reginae, the White Bird-of-Paradise captivates with its large, sculptural leaves and architectural form. 

13. African Mask Plant

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•  Name: African mask plant (Alocasia amazonica)

•  Light: Bright, indirect light

•  Water: Keep soil moist but not waterlogged

 Soil: Rich, well-draining potting medium

•  Mature Size: 1–2 ft. tall and wide

•  Pet-Friendly: No

•  Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)

•  Humidity: Moderate 

Unfurl the beauty of the tropics in your own home with the African Mask Plant. This captivating houseplant boasts large, deep green leaves that resemble works of art with bold, white or light green veins snaking across their surface, creating a striking contrast.

Shaped like elegant arrowheads or graceful hearts, the leaves of this plant hold a secret on their underside – a rich, velvety purple hue. 

14. Majesty Palm

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•  Name: Majesty palm (Ravenna rivularis) 

•  Light: Bright, indirect light

•  Water: Keep soil moist but not waterlogged

•  Soil: Cactus or succulent potting mix

•  Mature Size: 4-10 ft. tall

•  Pet-Friendly: Yes

•  Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)

•  Humidity: Average 

 The majesty palm definitely deserves its name as it brightens your living spaces with large, green fronds that gracefully arch from multiple stems, creating a striking visual statement. While it can reach up to 10 feet tall indoors, its slow growth habit makes it manageable for various living spaces.

Think of this plant as your pet who needs love and constant care. So, if you are someone who forgets to water ocassionally, this one is not for you.  But for those who enjoy the challenge and can provide the right environment, the majesty palm is a rewarding addition to your indoor oasis.

15. Cast Iron Plant

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•  Name: Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior) 

•  Light: Low light

•  Water: Well-draining houseplant soil

 Soil: Cactus or succulent potting mix

•  Mature Size: 4-10 ft. tall

•  Pet-Friendly: Yes

 Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)

The Cast Iron Plant features deep green, lance-shaped leaves that add a touch of lushness and elegance to any space. Unlike many finicky houseplants, the Cast Iron Plant tolerates a wide range of conditions, so it can survive in low light, infrequent watering, and even temperature fluctuations without complaint.

It is a slow grower so repotting and trimming will not be frequently necessary. So, if you are a forgetful plant parent or new to the world of indoor gardening, this plant will make a perfect companion!

16. Calathea Orbifolia

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•  Name: Round-leaved calathea (Calathea orbifolia)

•  Light: Bright, indirect light

•  Water: Keep soil evenly moist

 Soil: Rich, well-draining potting medium

•  Mature Size: 2-3 ft. tall, 1-2 ft. wide

•  Pet-Friendly: Yes

•  Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)

•  Humidity: High

Calatheas are stunning plants that reward attentive care with mesmerizing beauty and air-purifying properties. Often nicknamed "prayer plants" due to their leaves' tendency to fold upwards at night, they bring a touch of the tropics and a unique conversation starter to any indoor space.

If you're willing to provide the right environment, Calathea can become a cherished jewel in your indoor plant collection.

17. Ficus Audrey

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•  Name: Ficus 'Audrey'

•  Light: Bright indirect and direct sunlight

•  Water: Once a week

 Soil: Well-draining houseplant soil

•  Mature Size: 2-3 ft. tall, 1-2 ft. wide

•  Pet friendly: No

•  Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)

 Humidity: Moderate to High

The Ficus Audrey is a beautiful and relatively easy-to-care-for houseplant that offers a touch of the tropics to your home. Its adaptability to light and humidity levels, combined with its elegant form, make it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced plant enthusiasts. For people seeking an alternative to the Fiddle Leaf Fig, this pne will do the trick.

A breath of fresh air, Ficus Audrey is the national tree of India, revered for its beauty and resilience. It helps remove common toxins like formaldehyde and benzene from the air, promoting a healthier indoor environment.

18. Chinese Money Plant

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•  Name: Chinese Money Plant (Pilea peperomioides)

•  Light: Bright indirect light

•  Water: When the top inch of soil dries out.

 Soil: Well-draining houseplant soil

•  Mature Size: 8 to 12 inches (20-30 cm)

•  Pet friendly: Yes

•  Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)

•  Humidity: Adaptable

Known by its many nicknames like Pancake Plant, UFO Plant, or Missionary Plant, the Chinese Money Plant brings a touch of whimsy and good fortune to your home.  In Chinese culture, the round, coin-shaped leaves of the Pilea peperomioides symbolize wealth and prosperity.

It's a popular gift to bring good luck to friends and family. This plant is often fast-growing and produces pups at the base, allowing you to propagate new plants and share good luck with others easily.

19. Philodendron Selloum

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•  Name: Philodendron Selloum (Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum)

•  Light: Medium indirect sunlight

 Water: When the soil dries out.

•  Soil: Well-draining houseplant soil

•  Mature Size: 6 to 12 feet 

•  Pet friendly: No

•  Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)

•  Humidity: Moderate to high

The defining feature of the Philodendron Selloum is its large, deeply lobed leaves, which can grow up to 3 feet long and 18 inches wide. If given proper care and enough space, this plant creates a dramatic and lush statement, making it a show-stopping plant for those with the space to accommodate its eventual grandeur.

Furthermore, its beautiful foliage, moderate growth rate, and adaptability to various light conditions make it a popular choice for those seeking a statement piece in their indoor jungle.

20. Schefflera

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 Name: Umbrella Plant (Schefflera)

 Light: Medium indirect light

•  Water: When the top inch of soil dries out.

•  Soil: Well-draining potting mix

•  Mature Size: 6 to 12 feet 

•  Pet friendly: No

•  Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)

•  Humidity: Moderate

The Schefflera is a beautiful and adaptable houseplant that offers a combination of easy care and elegant foliage. With its diverse range of varieties and manageable growth habits, there's a Schefflera perfect for almost any indoor environment.

There are different variations of this plant, but the most common one is Schefflera arboricola, known for its glossy green leaves. Interestingly, Schefflera helps remove common toxins like formaldehyde and benzene from the air, promoting a healthier indoor environment.