Foliage plants should not be overlooked, as they offer an attractive and lasting beauty to gardens. While flowers may come and go, plants with attractive leaves will always bring delight. They are particularly useful in shady areas where flowering plants struggle, but there are some options that thrive both indoors and outdoors. Below are 20 best foliage plants that are catered to different situations and climates, ensuring there is something for everyone.
#1. Caladiums
Caladiums, with their heart-shaped, paper-thin leaves, are the living art of your indoor garden. Available in an array of colors, from pastel pinks to deep greens, these plants thrive in indirect light and require consistently moist soil. Keep them away from drafts and temperature extremes, and you’ll witness a spectacular display of foliage that changes with the seasons.
#2. Canna
Canna plants, often associated with exotic tropical vibes, boast broad, banana-like leaves that create a dramatic backdrop. These sun-loving beauties require well-draining soil and regular watering. With a penchant for sunlight, they’re the perfect addition to bright corners in your home, bringing a touch of the tropics indoors.
#3. Artemisia
For a touch of silver elegance, artemisia is a standout choice. Its finely divided leaves create a soft, feathery appearance. This low-maintenance plant thrives in well-drained soil and can withstand a variety of light conditions, making it a versatile choice for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts.
#4. Coleus
Coleus, with its vividly colored and intricately patterned leaves, is a true showstopper. These easy-going plants prefer indirect light and consistently moist soil. The best part? Pinching off the tips encourages bushier growth, allowing you to sculpt your own leafy masterpiece.
#5. Coral Bells
Known for their striking foliage and delicate bell-shaped flowers, Coral Bells add a touch of elegance to any indoor garden. These shade-loving plants prefer well-draining soil and occasional watering. With a variety of leaf colors and textures, Coral Bells are sure to captivate your attention.
#6. Hosta
Hostas are the undisputed champions in the list of best foliage plants. With their bold, textured leaves in various shades of green and white, they create a lush, inviting atmosphere. Keep the soil consistently moist, and these low-maintenance plants will reward you with a stunning display year after year.
#7. Ornamental Grasses
Bring the beauty of the outdoors inside with ornamental grasses. Their graceful, flowing leaves add a touch of movement and texture to any space. These plants thrive in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. With minimal care, you can enjoy the natural beauty of grasses without stepping foot outside.
#8. Persian Shield
When it comes to best foliage plants, you don’t want to miss the Persian shield with its metallic-hued leaves. These striking plants thrive in bright, indirect light and require consistently moist soil. With their eye-catching colors, they’re sure to become the focal point of your garden.
#9. Nerve Plant
If you’re seeking best foliage plants with intricate vein patterns and vibrant colors, the nerve plant is the perfect choice. These humidity-loving plants thrive in indirect light and well-draining soil. Keep the soil consistently moist, and you’ll be rewarded with a lush, colorful carpet of leaves.
#10. Peacock Plant
The Peacock Plant, also known as Calathea, earns its name with its stunning, peacock feather-like patterns. These low-light champions prefer consistently moist soil and high humidity. With their unique folding leaves, they add a touch of drama to your indoor jungle.
#11. Prayer Plant
The Prayer Plant, named for its habit of folding its leaves at night, is a true marvel. With intricate patterns and rich colors, these plants thrive in indirect light and well-draining soil. To witness their leaves dance day and night, you should keep them consistently moist.
#12. Rex Begonia
For a touch of royalty in your indoor garden, turn to Rex Begonias. With their regal foliage in various shapes and colors, these plants thrive in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings, and you’ll enjoy their majestic presence year-round.
#13. Croton
Croton boasts a palette of vibrant colors and bold patterns. These plants have glossy, leathery leaves that can be green, yellow, orange, red, or variegated. They have a tropical look and can grow up to 6 feet tall, and need bright light and warm temperatures to thrive well.
#14. Elephant Ear
Bring a touch of the tropics to your space with the elephant ear plant. With its large, heart-shaped leaves, these plants thrive in bright, indirect light and consistently moist soil. You will have a mini jungle in your home with these impressive foliage giants.
#15. Ferns
Ferns have feathery, divided leaves that can be green, blue, silver, or variegated. They are ancient plants that have a delicate and elegant appearance. These shade-loving plants prefer consistently moist soil and indirect light. With their timeless appeal, they are a must-have for any plant lover.
#16. Philodendron
Philodendron have glossy, heart-shaped leaves that can be green, red, or variegated. These low-maintenance plants thrive in a variety of light conditions and well-draining soil. From trailing vines to upright varieties, there’s a Philodendron for every corner of your home.
#17. Rubber Plant
Rubber plants have thick, leathery leaves that can be green, burgundy, or variegated. They have a shiny and rubbery appearance and can grow up to 10 feet tall. They are easy to care for and can tolerate low light and dry air.
#18. Snake Plant
The snake plant is another plant with striking foliage and low-maintenance nature. It is very hardy, can grow up to 4 feet tall and survive low light, dry air, and neglect. So if you want to add a modern and architectural look to your indoor space, look no further than the snake plant.
#19. Ti Plant
Ti plant is a classic choice for best foliage plants thanks to its long, narrow leaves that can be green, purple, pink, or variegated. They have a tropical and colorful look and can grow up to 6 feet tall. You can grow it indoors as houseplants or outdoors as shrubs in warm climates.
#20. Japanese Forest Grass
Japanese forest grass is a delightful perennial that grows at a leisurely pace, creating a neat clump that conservatively spreads without the need for frequent division. It’s one of the few ornament grasses that can thrive even in the most shady areas.
Like flowers, best foliage plants are also the stars of the plant world. They offer a range of colors, textures, shapes, and sizes that can complement any style or theme. So whether you want to create a tropical oasis, a serene woodland, or a modern minimalist setting, we hope that there is a foliage plant in this list for you. With some basic knowledge and tips, you can keep your plants healthy and happy. And if you have any questions about taking care of them, let us know by leaving a comment.
