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Houseplants are easy decor accessories that can instantly enliven your space with a spirited aesthetic. And it’s even better when they come in vibrant colours that break away from conventional greens.
There are plenty of flowering plants that add a dazzling pop of colour to your space. However, most flowering plants bloom only seasonally, leaving the foliage looking rather ordinary for the rest of the year.
A brilliant alternative is colourful houseplants that add character and make a spectacular statement all year round. We’ve curated a list of 15 such indoor plants with colour and vibrant hues that will elevate your space and give it an ethereal feel. Whether you’re looking for the best indoor plants in India or simply love greenery, these picks are for you.
15 Colourful Houseplants That Break the Green Mould!
1. Polka Dot Plant
Botanical Name: Hypoestes phyllostachya
Required Soil Type: Well-draining soil mix
Exposure to Sun: Indirect light
The Polka Dot Plant is a low-growing, attractive plant that adds an instant pop of colour to any space. The pink polka dot variant, featuring a pink base with green dots, is the most common type. However, there are a couple of other varieties available in vibrant colours like red, purple, and white, each with contrasting base colours.
Its variegated leaves and good-looking foliage are among the plant’s most loved features, making it a favourite among fans of colourful houseplants. Although perennial by nature, Polka Dot Plants are often replaced annually. Native to warm climatic zones, they require regular watering to thrive.
These moisture-loving plants mature at a height of 1-2 ft and generally remain non-invasive. They do best when exposed to indirect bright light. Polka Dot Plant care is simple and beginner-friendly.
2. Coleus
Botanical Name: Plectranthus scutellarioides
Required Soil Type: Moist and rich soil mix
Exposure to Sun: Direct Sun
Coleus is among the best indoor plants in India, celebrated for its dynamic hues and colourful foliage. Although it’s a sun-loving plant, it can thrive indoors too, provided it receives an adequate amount of direct sunlight. The vividly coloured foliage showcases several variations in hues that change as the plant grows.
Native to warmer climatic zones, Coleus grows as a perennial in warm regions and as an annual in cooler climates. The plant loves moist soil and is known to be invasive, growing aggressively under the right conditions.
The plant matures at a height of 2-3 ft and comes in hundreds of varieties. A few of them include the Wizard Series, the Kong Series, Black Dragon, Premium Sun, and Fairway Series. This plant thrives indoors in bright, indirect light, preferring well-lit rooms or spots with filtered sunlight near windows.
3. Croton
Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum
Required Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix
Exposure to Sun: Needs direct sun
Crotons are vivacious plants bursting with colour. Available in over a hundred different forms, this diverse plant family is native to warmer climatic zones. Crotons are a popular choice for indoor plants as they are known to increase humidity, boost productivity and enhance mood. Their variegated leaves and eye-catching foliage can uplift the look of any space, making a statement.
When potted, crotons require well-draining soil. They typically grow up to 3 ft tall, but the indoor plants tend to be much smaller. The diverse array of crotons is classified according to their leaf types. A few popular varieties include Var pictum, Gold Star, and Petra.
Known for their vibrant foliage, crotons have specific sunlight needs. They thrive in bright, direct sun and require plenty of water. While these conditions ideally make them better suited for outdoor growth, it is possible to grow crotons indoors with the right care.
4. Nerve Plant
Botanical Name: Fittonia albivenis
Required Soil Type: Well-drained yet moist
Exposure to Sun: Bright, direct sunlight
The nerve plant, or mosaic plant, is a striking, vibrant plant with vein-like patterned leaves. Available in several different varieties having hues of pink, purple, white, etc., this plant acts as a visually interesting element in any space.
Its low-growing foliage is native to tropical zones. The plant loves moisture but doesn’t require a large quantity of water. The nerve plant requires direct sunlight; without it, the vibrant colours can fade, causing the leaves to turn green.
The plant typically grows up to 18 inches tall. It can be grown in dish gardens, terrariums, or in hanging baskets as an indoor plant. Its minimal care needs qualify it as a low-maintenance plant.
5. Anthurium
Botanical Name: Anthurium
Required Soil Type: Coarse, rich, and well-draining soil
Exposure to Sun: Indirect light
Anthurium is a common houseplant that is also known as laceleaf or flamingo flowers. They are distinct plants that can jazz up a space instantly, giving it an alluring appeal. Their attention-grabbing flowers are heart-shaped, with a waxy finish and prominent spikes.
Anthuriums are slow-growing, low-lying plants with an average lifespan of about five years. Their prolonged blooming periods keep them attractive throughout the year. They are available in several different vibrant colours like red, white, and purple.
Anthuriums thrive indoors in areas with indirect sunlight. They require a rich, coarse soil mix and should always remain moist. The ‘Andreanum’ species is the most common type of anthurium species. It is a fabulous choice if you want colourful houseplants that bloom year-round.
6. Arrowhead Vine
Botanical Name: Syngonium podophyllum
Required Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix
Exposure to Sun: Sun-loving, ample direct or indirect light
One of the most easy-going houseplants, the arrowhead vine is a popular choice for vibrant, colourful plants. Its heart-shaped leaves with changing hues and the canopy-like foliage make it an appealing statement piece.
Native to tropical zones, the plant thrives in bright sunlight. Its leaves change colour as they age, transitioning from green to either white or pink, depending on the variety. It’s one of the top indoor plants with colour, perfect for bright corners.
They need a sufficient amount of water to keep the soil moist yet well-drained. The plant grows aggressively, in a somewhat haphazard manner, so it requires support and regular pruning. It thrives indoors in well-lit spaces, preferring bright, filtered light, making it suitable for placement near windows or in adequately illuminated rooms for optimal growth.
7. Calathea
Botanical Name: Goeppertia
Required Soil Type: Well-draining, rich soil mix
Exposure to Sun: Direct sunlight
A striking plant with artistic, variegated leaves that resemble brush strokes is the Calathea. The crimson variety is one of the exceptional, colourful houseplants that is easy to incorporate into Indian homes. Available in over 300 different varieties, each with vivid colours and patterns, this plant can add a lot of character to any space.
Calathea Roseopicta Crimson is a particularly spectacular, vibrant variant that can uplift the look of any space. Its oval-shaped leaves and dark pink hues make it well-suited for indoor environments.
Some varieties are easy to care for, while others are sensitive, requiring direct sunlight. Without bright light, they may not retain their assigned colour. Some varieties grow as tall as 18 inches and require a well-draining soil mix. Other colourful varieties include Calathea Makoyana, Calathea Fusion White, and Calathea Picturata Argenta.
8. Chinese Evergreen
Botanical Name: Aglaonema
Required Soil Type: Standard potting mix
Exposure to Sun: Indirect light
Aglaonema, commonly known as the Chinese Evergreen, is a popular, vibrantly coloured plant. The gradient hues, freckles, and coloured stripes on its pointed leaves create an artistically stylised look that elevates the appearance of any space. It is an easy-going plant requiring indirect sunlight.
Available in a wide variety of types, Aglaonema features vivid colours such as red, yellow, pink, silver, white, and many more. They typically grow up to 18 inches tall and last for two to three years. The plant is relatively low-maintenance when it comes to watering; a small amount of water at frequent intervals is ideal.
While Aglaonema love to be under the sun, they can also thrive in areas with indirect light. Red Peacock, George’s Ruby, and Harlequin are popular coloured variants of the aglaonema plant.
9. Rex Begonia
Botanical Name: Begonia Rex-Cultorum
Required Soil Type: Moist and porous soil
Exposure to Sun: Indirect bright light
A dramatic plant to add character to your space is Rex Begonia. Although Begonia are available in numerous varieties, the Rex begonia is the most vibrant variant of them all. Its large, variegated leaves and structured foliage make it an eye-catching decor element for eclectic interiors.
These grow at a moderate rate, reaching a height of 12-18 inches. They are perennial and native to subtropical zones. Rex begonias prefer bright, indirect light and thrive in shallow, well-draining, moist soils.
Mostly featuring dark pink and purple hues, Rex-begonia has several other coloured variants that are equally vibrant. It’s truly one of the most distinct indoor plants with colour.
10. Desert Gems Cacti
Botanical Name: Mammillaria
Required Soil Type: Well-draining sandy soil
Exposure to Sun: High, Direct sunlight
Desert Gems Cacti are perfect for adding a bold splash of colour to your interiors. Available in jewel-toned shades like topaz pink, fire opal, emerald green, sapphire blue, and amethyst purple, these plants look striking as desk decor or as accessories on shelves.
They are easy-growing plants that thrive in brightly lit spaces. Small in size, they typically grow up to only 3-4 inches tall. Their water requirements are extremely low, needing just a small amount every 10-14 days.
These desert plants have softer spikes compared to the other varieties of cacti. They do not require pruning and are safe to have around pets and children.
If you’re looking to improve indoor air quality while adding greenery, don’t miss our list of the 10 Best Air Purifying Plants to Clean the Air in Your Homes!
11. Wandering Jew
Botanical Name: Tradescantia
Required Soil Type: Regular potting mix
Exposure to Sun: Bright indirect light
A beautiful ornamental plant to add glamour to your space is the Wandering Jew. Commonly known as spiderwort, these are popular choices for colourful plants. Available in numerous varieties suitable for both indoor and outdoor spaces, they have a striking, attention-grabbing appearance.
Common varieties of this plant include Tradescantia Zebrina, Tradescantia Blossfeldiana, Tradescantia Pallida, etc, featuring deep hues of red, purple, and pink. Many varieties grow aggressively as vines.
The plant has several varieties with variegated, dual-toned leaves, while some are solid-coloured with insignificant seasonal blooms. It thrives in indirect but bright light and requires minimal yet frequent watering.
If you’re curious about the best spotsto place your indoor plants, check out this amazing article on unique places to keep indoor plants!
Indoor Plants At Home – Six Spaces That You Can Utilize And How?
12. Purple Waffle Plant
Botanical Name: Hemigraphis Alternata
Required Soil Type: All-purpose potting mix
Exposure to Sun: Indirect bright light
The Purple Waffle Plant, also known as Red Ivy, is a perennial indoor and outdoor plant. This vibrant and attractive plant adds character to a space with its vividly hued, oval-shaped leaves and beautiful foliage.
Available as a shrub and a vine, this plant thrives in indirect, bright light. It is easy to grow, but it may lose its vibrant pink-purple hue and turn green in the absence of adequate light.
It loves moist soil and grows aggressively under the right conditions. Belgian Waffle, Red Flame Ivy, and Snow White are some popular variants of Purple Waffle Plants. This makes it one of the best indoor plants with colour, especially suited for shaded spots.
13. Ti Plant
Botanical Name: Cordyline fruticosa
Required Soil Type: Sandy or peat-based soil mix
Exposure to Sun: Indirect light
The Ti Plant is a vibrant species with broad, palm-like leaves. Its vivacious, structured foliage can add a touch of grace to any space where it’s placed. It serves as both a great landscape specimen and an easy-to-maintain houseplant.
This evergreen plant has numerous varieties that have red, pink, and purple hues with variegated leaves. It is a fast-growing plant that thrives in tropical climates, requiring indirect light and a loose, sandy soil mix.
They mature at a height of 3-4 ft. Popular varieties include Hawaiian Boy, Florida Red, Pink Passion, Candy Cane, and Black Magic. Some of these variants also bloom seasonally. This tropical beauty is widely appreciated and considered one of the best indoor plants in India.
14. Oxalis
Botanical Name: Oxalis Triangularis
Required Soil Type: Loamy, well-draining soil mix
Exposure to Sun: Bright direct and indirect light
Oxalis or Purple Shamrock, is a vividly ornamental plant that is loved for its deep-purple heart-shaped leaves. Native to tropical regions, this plant makes a sophisticated statement when used in interior spaces.
It’s not the easiest to take care of due to its tricky water and light requirements. The plant needs both direct and indirect light, so you must alternate between the two. It loves loamy, moist soil but can also tolerate days without water.
The plant blooms seasonally, producing tiny white flowers that make it even more appealing. Some varieties feature variegated leaves, all in shades of purple. It thrives indoors in bright, indirect light, preferring locations near windows with filtered sunlight, ideal for maintaining its vibrant purple foliage.
15. Caladium
Botanical Name: Caladium
Required Soil Type: Well-draining soil mix
Exposure to Sun: Indirect light
A dazzling, colourful indoor plant that can make your space look chic and glamorous is the Caladium plant. Available in a diverse array of hues, ranging from green, pink, red, and white, this plant is known for its sculptural, variegated leaves and stunning foliage.
It is an extremely easy-growing plant with two primary types. One category includes fancy-leaf Caladiums, while the other includes strap-leaf Caladiums. Fancy-leaf Caladiums have taller, larger leaves, whereas strap-leaf Caladiums feature smaller, more compact foliage.
They thrive in indirect light in a well-draining soil mix. Their water requirement is minimal yet frequent. Some of the popular Caladium variants include Gingerland, Florida Sweetheart, Pink Gem, and Splash of Wine. Caladiums are famous for their multicoloured, sculptural leaves and are a must-have if you’re curating a collection of indoor plants with colour.
Taking Care of These Colourful Beauties
Proper care ensures your colourful houseplants thrive indoors. According to Barbara Pleasant, author of the book ‘The Complete Houseplant Survival Manual, “Houseplants require specific care depending on the species and environment.”
Caring for colourful indoor plants involves a tailored approach to meet their specific needs. Watering frequency should be determined by the soil’s dryness, preventing both overwatering-induced root rot and the stress caused by underwatering. Maintaining typical room temperatures between 65-75°F is key, avoiding extreme fluctuations. Lighting requirements vary; some prefer bright, indirect light, while others thrive in direct sunlight, necessitating appropriate placement. Employing well-draining soil mixes, repotting as needed, and using balanced fertilisers at the right time foster healthy growth. Regular pruning and grooming maintain desired shapes and remove unhealthy leaves, while considerations for humidity, pests, diseases, and seasonal adjustments ensure optimal plant care for vibrant indoor spaces.
Also Read: Essential Indoor Houseplants Care Tips for Plant Lovers
Final Thoughts
Vibrant indoor plants are simply spectacular! They add a bold touch of drama to a space, enhancing its appeal and giving it an alluring look. With a diverse array of colourful houseplants to choose from, you are just one step away from transforming your space.
FAQs Related to Colourful Houseplants
1. Which One Is the Prettiest Colourful Indoor Houseplant?
There are plenty of stunning, colourful indoor plants that look spectacular in any interior space. Some popular ones include Chinese Evergreen, Rex Begonia, Croton, Coleus, Wandering Jew, and many more.
2. Which Colourful Plant Is Best for Interior Decor?
The Arrowhead Plant, Caladium, and Coton are all examples of some of the best vibrant indoor plants. Oxalis, Rex Begonia, and Ti plants are also extremely good-looking, colourful indoor plants.
3. Is It Safe to Use the Exotic Range of Plants in the House?
Not all exotic plants are safe to have around pets and children. Be cautious about what kind of plants you include in your interior spaces, especially if you have little ones or pets at home.
4. What Are Modern Indoor Plants?
Bromeliad, Madagascar Dragon Tree, and Cacti are some of the modern indoor plants that are easy to maintain and add a vibrant touch to a space.
5. What are the Top Five Tips for Using Indoor Plants?
Expose your plants to indirect light, use a well-draining soil mix, and water adequately. Also, prune and repot your plants regularly to ensure they take the desired shape and grow at the right pace.
6. What Is the Colourful Plant That Grows Both Indoor and Outdoor?
Croton is one of the most colourful plants that thrive both indoors and outdoors.
7. Which Plant Has Colourful Leaves?
Caladiums, Aglaonema, and crotons have the most colourful leaves. A few of their varieties have over five shades in a single leaf.
Also Read: 15 Best Low Light Indoor Plants That Will Thrive in Your Bedroom
References
Pleasant, B. (2012) The Complete Houseplant Survival Manual. [online] New York: Storey Publishing. Available at: https://www.google.co.in/books/edition/The_Complete_Houseplant_Survival_Manual/j9p4EAAAQBAJ
Author Bio
Saili Sawantt – She is an Architect and Interior Designer by profession. Writing is what she treats as her passion. She has worked as an Architectural Writer, Editor, and Journalist for various design as well as digital portals, both national and international. Formerly she has also worked with Godrej Properties Limited (GPL) Design Studio, Mumbai, due to her keen interested in learning about Sustainability and Green buildings. Apart from this, she runs her blog ‘The Reader’s Express’ and is a practicing Architect & Interior Designer.