Indoor plants have become a popular way to breathe life into interiors, and tall indoor plants, in particular, make a striking statement. For Australians looking to enhance their homes with some greenery, tall plants offer both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits, from filling bare corners to improving indoor air quality. Here’s a look at some of the best tall indoor plants for Australian homes and tips on how to keep them thriving.
1. Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus Lyrata)
The Fiddle Leaf Fig is a favourite in Australian homes for its broad, violin-shaped leaves that add a touch of elegance to any room. With its lush foliage and impressive height, it’s a go-to choice for adding a focal point in living rooms and other open spaces.
Care Needs: Fiddle Leaf Figs thrive in bright, indirect sunlight and should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry. They can be sensitive to changes in environment, so find a spot they like and avoid moving them frequently.
2. Monstera Deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant)
Known for its distinctive, hole-filled leaves, Monstera Deliciosa is a tropical plant that adds personality to any space. It can grow quite tall with proper support and creates a lush, jungle-like atmosphere indoors.
Care Needs: Monsteras love bright, indirect light and require moderate watering—allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. They also appreciate occasional misting, which replicates their natural humid environment.
3. Strelitzia Nicolai (Bird of Paradise)
If you’re looking to make a statement, the Bird of Paradise is a showstopper. Its large, upright leaves lend a dramatic, tropical flair to interiors and make it an ideal choice for spacious rooms or entryways.
Care Needs: This plant prefers bright light, including some direct sunlight, and should be watered regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. While it’s relatively low-maintenance, its leaves can collect dust, so wiping them down occasionally will keep them looking vibrant.
4. Rubber Plant (Ficus Elastica)
The Rubber Plant is loved for its glossy, dark green leaves and sturdy structure. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to create a bold and modern look indoors, and its height can be easily managed to suit the room’s scale.
Care Needs: Rubber Plants thrive in bright, indirect light but can adapt to lower light conditions. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and consider misting during dry periods, as these plants appreciate some humidity.
Tips for Keeping Tall Indoor Plants Happy and Healthy
Once you’ve chosen the perfect tall plant for your home, proper care will ensure it grows healthy and strong:
- Lighting: Tall indoor plants typically need bright, indirect light to thrive, but check each plant’s specific light requirements. Position them near windows with filtered light, or rotate the plants periodically to ensure even exposure.
- Watering: Overwatering is a common mistake, so be sure to check the soil before watering. Many plants prefer their soil to dry out slightly between waterings, especially in winter.
- Stability: Tall plants can become top-heavy as they grow, so it’s a good idea to place them in sturdy, weighted pots to prevent tipping. You can also stake taller plants to help them maintain their structure.
- Humidity and Misting: Some tall indoor plants, like the Monstera and Bird of Paradise, enjoy a bit of extra humidity. If your home has dry air, misting or placing a humidifier nearby can keep them happy.
Add Personality to Your Space with Tall Indoor Plants
Tall indoor plants bring undeniable character to any space, creating a lush, inviting atmosphere and offering a variety of textures and colours to enhance your decor. Whether you’re drawn to the dramatic leaves of a Fiddle Leaf Fig, the tropical appeal of a Bird of Paradise, or the sleek look of a Rubber Plant, there’s a tall indoor plant that can transform your space. With a little care, these green giants can thrive, offering both aesthetic and functional benefits to Australian homes for years to come.
