Houseplants with huge leaves

7th January, 2022

As houseplants go, there are few with leaves as big as those of the plants on this list. While large leaves can create a dramatic statement in your home, they also serve an important function. Plants with big leaves are often very good at purifying the air, so if you’re looking to improve your indoor air quality, these are the plants for you.

Monstera deliciosa

This popular houseplant, commonly known as Swiss cheese plant, is known for its large, unusual, glossy leaves. Native to the tropical forests of Central and South America, the monstera deliciosa is an easy to care for plant that does well in most indoor environments. In the warmest months of the year, it can be brought outside onto a patio or decking, if it is not in direct sunlight. With the right care, they can grow 2 to 3 metres tall, when fully mature.

Alocasia

The alocasia is a genus of flowering plants that includes several species with large, dramatic arrow-shaped leaves. These tropical plants are native to Asia and Australia, and they thrive in humid environments in the wild, so grow well in rooms the sometimes have some steam, such as the kitchen or bathroom. They like bright indirect sunlight. Avoid overwatering as they are susceptible to root rot.

Philodendron

The philodendron is a plant genus that includes several species with large leaves (Monstera deliciosa, above, is a philodendron plant). These plants are native to the tropical regions of the Americas and they are known for their ability to climb. Philodendron verrucosum is native to Costa Rica and Edcuador and has large heart shaped leaves, with prominent veins. The plant likes the soil to be kept moist, and to be grown in a room with indirect sunlight. Feed with houseplant feed once a month.

Ficus

The ficus is a genus of flowering plants that includes several species with large leaves. These plants are native to the tropics, and they do well in warm, humid environments. African fig Ficus cyathistipula is available as a houseplant, and grows well in indirect sunlight in the warmer months, and placed nearer a window in winter, to get extra sunlight. It can be watered as normal, when the surface starts getting dry, and can be fed with a houseplant feed every month.

Calathea

The calathea, or prayer plant, is a genus of tropical plants that includes several species with large, dramatic leaves. They are multi-coloured and often have purple undersides. These plants are native to the Americas, and they thrive in warm, humid environments. Keep moist, but not wet. Growing it in a kitchen or bathroom is a good idea, as it likes a more humid environment, that resembles the rainforest. Place the pot in indirect sunlight.