Bianca MullerIndoor plants don’t have to be green to make an impact. From deep purple leaves and silvery patterns to splashes of pink, red and lime, colourful foliage can brighten up a room while adding a little personality to your plant collection. If you’re looking for something beyond the usual monstera or fiddle-leaf fig, these striking indoor plants are worth a spot in your home.
Calathea
Calatheas are known for their beautifully patterned leaves, with varieties ranging from deep green and purple to pink, cream and silver. They prefer bright, indirect light, as direct sunlight can scorch their leaves. Keep the soil lightly moist but never waterlogged, and provide good humidity by grouping plants together or placing the pot near a humidifier. Calatheas can be a little fussy, but their colourful foliage makes the extra care worthwhile.
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Croton
With leaves in shades of green, yellow, orange, red and even pink, crotons are among the most colourful indoor plants you can grow. They need plenty of bright, indirect light to maintain their vibrant colours, although harsh afternoon sun can burn the leaves. Allow the top layer of soil to dry slightly between waterings and avoid letting the plant sit in water. Crotons also appreciate humidity, making them a good choice for a bright bathroom.
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Tradescantia
Tradescantia is a fast-growing houseplant with trailing stems and colourful leaves that can feature shades of purple, silver, green and pink, depending on the variety. Give it bright, indirect light to encourage the best colour and allow the top few centimetres of soil to dry between waterings. It works particularly well in hanging pots or on a shelf where its trailing stems can spill over the edge.
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Polka dot plant
For a smaller splash of colour, the polka dot plant is hard to beat. Its leaves are covered in contrasting spots or splashes of pink, red, white or purple. It prefers bright, indirect light and consistently moist soil, although it should never be left sitting in soggy compost. Pinching out the growing tips regularly will encourage a bushier plant rather than a leggy one.
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Nerve plant
Nerve plants may be small, but their intricate foliage packs plenty of visual impact. Their leaves have prominent veins in shades of white, pink or red against green foliage. They prefer bright, indirect light and high humidity, and their soil should be kept consistently moist without becoming waterlogged. They are particularly suited to terrariums or humid rooms where larger houseplants might take up too much space.
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Rex begonia
Rex begonias are prized almost entirely for their foliage, which can feature metallic silver, deep burgundy, pink, purple and green in striking patterns. They prefer bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Water when the surface of the soil begins to dry, taking care not to leave the leaves constantly wet, as this can encourage fungal problems. Keep them somewhere warm and away from cold draughts.
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How to care for colourful indoor plants
Although each plant has slightly different requirements, most colourful-leaved houseplants have a few things in common. Bright, indirect light is usually the key to maintaining vibrant foliage, while too much direct sunlight can scorch delicate leaves. Water according to the plant’s needs rather than following a strict schedule, and always use pots with drainage holes.
Humidity can also make a big difference, particularly for tropical plants such as calatheas and nerve plants. Finally, wipe dusty leaves gently with a damp cloth from time to time. Clean foliage can absorb light more efficiently, while regular checks also make it easier to spot pests or other problems early.
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Feature image: Unsplash
