South African indoor plant trends to enjoy in June
Keeping indoor plants alive can be challenging. Selecting the species that naturally thrive in the environment you are able to provide is the best recipe for success. Here are the top choices to enjoy now.

Calathea amabilis

An indoor perennial, Calathea amabilis is also called the Prayer Plant. It originates in the heart of the humid South American and West Indies rainforests, thus, it loves moist conditions. Expect it to flower around mid-spring and the bushy leaves will continue to spread.

Provide dappled or partial sun and moderate amounts of water. These plants are delicate, so avoid exposing them to cold temperatures. Growing them indoors is ideal.

Maranta tricolor

Another indoor plant that comes from the hot tropics, Maranta, sports beautiful multi-coloured leaves – bold magenta, olive green, and lime green. Their white flowers will appear in spring and add a refreshing contrast to the brightness of the leaves.

Give them acidic and well-draining soil, indirect sunlight, and frequent water in the growing season. They are susceptible to fungal infections if overwatered and succumb to drought if they’re under-watered, so balance is key.

Stromanthe triostar

The ruby red leaves of this indoor plant make it a wonderful gifting option around the festive season. They’re classed as challenging to care for, although, by following a basic guideline and meeting all their needs, it is actually straightforward.

Stromanthe is from the Brazilian rainforests, and requires a very humid environment. In order to thrive, they require regular misting, a pebble tray, or a humidifier in the room. They love bright light, but direct sunlight will scorch the leaves.

Spathiphyllum ‘Sensation’

Technically a tender perennial, this Spath (or peace lily) is a foliage-rich plant to keep indoors. The unassuming grace of the flower makes it a decorative delight. Give this plant regular water and ensure the soil never completely dries between watering.

They enjoy full to partial shade, no direct sunlight. The spathes (flowers) offer a striking contrast to the dark green leaves. The flowers may turn green as they age, but often, young flowers may also turn green.

Euphorbia trigona

From the succulent family, Euphorbia trigona can make minimal water stretch for months – years if necessary. It’s native to Namibia, surviving in arid conditions is its speciality. It is sometimes called the African milk tree. It is a low-maintenance indoor plant that requires minute amounts of water, infrequently.

Be aware that this plant gets its common name from the milky substance inside it. This substance is designed to repel insects, but it may cause an allergic reaction for some people. Handle the plant with care and be sure to wash your hands thoroughly if you touch the milky sap. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.

Aspidistra

Aspidistra is grown for its decorative and lush foliage. It’s also super easy to maintain. It’s one of the few plants that will tolerate:
● Dust
● Neglect
● Low temperatures
● Poor light conditions
For those reasons, it’s a firm favourite among established gardeners and new gardeners alike.
To get them to thrive, give them frequent moisture and well-composted soil, especially if they’re indoors. They do particularly well in potting soil for African violets.

In terms of feeding, feed your indoor plants with a water soluble or liquid fertiliser.

For more structural plant options than those above, try the Dracaena or Sansevieria species. If you’d like more trailing plant varieties, try Scindapsus or the Tahitian Bridal Veil. Visit your local GCA Garden Centre for the largest variety of gorgeous green indoor options!