Up-to-date Indoor Plants to Elevate any Modern Living Space
Modernizing Mid-Century Homes with Houseplants
Houseplants can warm and enliven a space, adding interest to interior design. For those looking to incorporate modern houseplants into a mid-century modern home, here are some principles to follow.
Plant Selection
Modern houseplants like the Cast Iron Plant, Fiddle Leaf Fig, Monstera, Philodendron, Prayer Plant, and Snake Plant suit mid-century modern interiors due to their structural shapes and textural leaves, which complement the clean lines and organic influences of mid-century design.
The Fiddle Leaf Fig and Monstera offer large, sculptural foliage creating striking focal points. The Cast Iron Plant and Snake Plant provide hardy, low-maintenance options with vertical or arching leaves adding architectural elements. Philodendrons (especially vining types) and Prayer Plant bring a softer, more dynamic leaf movement and patterns that add visual interest without overwhelming simplicity.
Styling Tips
To style these plants, use planters and stands with mid-century modern aesthetics. Look for round ceramic pots with gold or brass metal stands, or simple wood or metal planters with clean lines. Place larger plants like Fiddle Leaf Fig or Monstera in spacious corners or near windows to emphasize vertical space and natural light. Smaller or trailing plants like Philodendron or Prayer Plant work well on shelves, hanging planters, or side tables to introduce variety in height and texture. Group plants in odd numbers and mix various leaf shapes to echo the mid-century motif of combining organic forms with geometric simplicity. Maintain an uncluttered look by choosing pots in neutral tones or with subtle textures that do not compete with the foliage.
Care Considerations for Mid-Century Homes
These homes often have large windows, so bright indirect light suits Fiddle Leaf Fig and Monstera well. Cast Iron Plant and Snake Plant tolerate lower light, good for less sunny corners. Avoid overwatering; many of these plants (especially Snake Plant and Cast Iron Plant) thrive on less frequent watering, suiting modern lifestyles. Arrange plants so their clean lines and natural forms enhance rather than disrupt the minimalist mid-century decor ethos.
The Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior) is a popular modern indoor houseplant due to its low-maintenance nature and ability to thrive in less-than-ideal growing conditions. Philodendron plants can vary greatly in appearance depending on the species, with many philodendron cultivars prized for their interesting appearance.
Fiddle-leaf fig plants are known for their distinctive foliage, although they may require special attention to meet their specific needs. The prayer plant folds its leaves each evening, mimicking the shape of folded hands, hence its namesake. The prayer plant dazzles plant growers with its lush foliage and intricate leaf patterns. Some experienced growers note that the snake plant may help purify indoor air and reduce pollutants.
Houseplants differing in height, texture, color, and habit can be grouped in any spot that supports their needs. Monsteras can grow in large containers to impressive sizes, making them ideal for large rooms or smaller spaces where they can become a focal object. The snake plant offers a distinctive form and appearance with tall, upright foliage.
In summary, select structurally interesting, easy-care plants like those listed, use stylish mid-century inspired planters, and position your plants to emphasize light, space, and organic shapes for a balanced and authentic look. This approach aligns with the mid-century modern ethos of blending nature and architecture seamlessly with clean but warm aesthetics.
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Tonya Barnett, who has been gardening for 13 years and has transformed her backyard into a cut flower garden, chronicles her journey on her YouTube channel.
Houseplants can complement and enhance the clean lines and organic influences of mid-century modern interiors, making gardening an integral part of a home-and-garden lifestyle within a modernized mid-century home. By selecting modern houseplants like the Fiddle Leaf Fig, Monstera, and Philodendron, homeowners can bring visual interest and architectural elements to their mid-century homes while blending nature and architecture seamlessly.
