RHS Practical House Plant Book - Choose The Best, Display Creatively, Nurture and Care, 175 Plant Profiles (PDFDrive)

ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY
PRACTICAL
HOUSE
PLANT
BOOK
CHOOSE THE BEST DISPLAY CREATIVELY
NURTURE & CARE 175 PLANT PROFILES
FRAN BAILEY & ZIA ALLAWAY
PRACTICAL
HOUSE
PLANT BOOK
PRACTICAL
HOUSE
PLANT
BOOK
FRAN BAILEY
ZIA ALLAWAY
RHS CONSULTANT: CHRISTOPHER YOUNG
CONTENTS
6 Introduction
8 DESIGNING WITH HOUSE PLANTS 50 HOUSE PLANT PROJECTS

10 The art of house plant design 52 Desertscape
12 The rules of house plant design 56 Air plant stand
14 Understanding scale 60 Macramé hanger
16 Designing with scale 64 Open bottle terrarium
18 Understanding shape 68 Willow climbing frame
20 Designing with shape 72 Succulent wreath
22 Understanding colour 76 Kokedama fern
24 Designing with colour 80 Moss picture frame
26 Understanding texture 84 Dry terrarium
28 Designing with texture 88 Wood-mounted orchid
30 Understanding containers 92 Living space divider
32 Designing with containers 96 Propagation shelf
36 Designing for bright light
38 Designing for low light
40 Designing for humidity
42 Designing for your space
44 Designing for wellbeing
100 PLANT PROFILES 176 CARE AND CULTIVATION
102 Bromeliads 178 Buying a new house plant
106 Bulbous plants 180 Getting the light right
110 Orchids 182 Check the temperature
116 Other flowering plants 184 How to water your house plants
126 Ferns 188 Feeding your plants
130 Palms 190 Choosing compost for your plants
134 Trailing and climbing plants 192 Pots and repotting
142 Carnivorous plants 194 Keeping your plants in shape
146 Foliage plants 196 How to make an orchid reflower
162 Cacti 198 How to grow bulbs indoors
166 Succulents 200 Propagate from stem cuttings
174 Air plants 202 Propagate from leaf cuttings
204 Propagate with water
205 Propagate by dividing plants
206 Propagate from offsets
208 Propagate from seed
210 What’s wrong with my plant?
212 Dealing with care-based problems
214 Dealing with common diseases
216 Dealing with common pests
220 Index
6
INTRODUCTION
RHS PRACTICAL HOUSE PLANT BOOK
Science has proved it: house plants make us happier and

healthier. When studies tell us that plants can purify the air,
lift our mood, and reduce our stress levels, we have every
reason to fill our homes with wonderful, happiness-inducing
plants of every shape, size, and colour.
With so many different varieties on offer, there is a plant – or

twenty – to suit everyone: elegant, blossoming orchids; dinky
little cacti and succulents; delicate trailing plants; floor-standing
palms and foliage plants… the list goes on and on. It’s hard to
resist the urge to simply fill any and every available surface
with a random assortment of greenery, but the best house
plant displays are those that go that one step further: thoughtful,
curated arrangements that can create a mood within a home,
be it a cosy little oasis or a dramatic, architectural plant display.
INTRODUCTION
7
As much as we may want to, we can’t all turn our homes into
a full-scale botanical garden. Instead, we need to be a little
more inventive. Poor light? Look for unfussy foliage plants, such
as cast iron plants or snake plants, that can survive in a shadier
spot. No free surface space? Plant up a miniature garden inside
a glass terrarium, or go all-out and create a hanging garden with
macramé planters and kokedama.
And, once you’ve designed your plant-filled home, how exactly

do you keep the plants in peak condition? With this book, you’ll
be able to care for whichever plants you choose, keep them
healthy and strong, and take cuttings to share with friends and
family (or to grow your own collection). Treat your plants well
and, no matter how large or small your collection, you’ll be
rewarded with an indoor garden you can enjoy for years to come.
DESIGNING WITH
HOUSE PLANTS
10
THE ART OF
HOUSE PLANT DESIGN
On its own, a plant is just a plant. Add another and it becomes a display.
But what distinguishes a random selection of plants from a piece of
design that can engage the eye and evoke the mood of your living
DESIGNING WITH HOUSE PLANTS
space? The answer is to establish a visual connection between your

plants, using the four design elements below.
SCALE pp14–17 SHAPE pp18–21

THE ART OF HOUSE PLANT DESIGN
Use size and proportion to create a display. Choosing plants with similar shapes can
Choose same-sized plants for balance and create beautiful, natural patterns, while
symmetry, or use plants of different sizes to contrasting shapes can be used to sculpt
draw the eye and create flow and movement. displays with a sense of drama.
11
“ Think of your design

from every angle, as if
it is a three-dimensional
piece of living sculpture.”
COLOUR pp22–25 TEXTURE pp26–29
Colour can interact with colour to A plant’s texture can have visual as well
great effect. Use that interplay to find as tactile appeal, as it determines how the
soft, harmonious shades or build a foliage interacts with the light. Mix and match
more vibrant, contrasting palette. different textures to add depth to a display.
12
THE RULES OF
HOUSE PLANT DESIGN
How you choose to design your house plant collection depends on
your personal style, imagination, and the space you have available.
With so many variables, the possibilities are almost endless, but for
your displays to be successful, follow these key principles.

THE RULES OF HOUSE PLANT DESIGN
1 2
CARE COMES THINK
BEFORE STYLE NATURAL
A healthy plant is a beautiful plant. Be inspired by nature. Consider
When designing for a particular space, where and how a plant would grow in the
always choose plants that you know will wild, and try to emulate that in your display.
thrive in the light, temperature, and humidity So, if a plant thrives in on a damp, semi-shaded
conditions provided by that space. There forest floor, provide it with a position that
is no point taking the time to arrange the offers a similar environment. If it trails from
perfect display only to watch the plants high branches, place it in a hanging container.
within it begin to wilt and die because If it grows aerial roots without compost, build
they are unhappy in their location. that into your display. Whatever its natural
circumstances, use them as inspiration.
13
3 HARMONY
AND CONTRAST
Strike a balance between harmonious
and contrasting design features. Familiarise
yourself with the four key elements of
design (see pp10–11), and harmonize or
contrast them as needed to achieve the
effect you want. Harmony can create a
balanced, unified appearance, while contrast
will add interest and dynamism to a display.
14
HARMONY OF SCALE
UNDERSTANDING
Choosing and grouping together plants of
uniform or nearly uniform scale results in a classic,
SCALE
highly ordered display. Repetition of scale and
proportion creates a harmonious pattern and
offers a sense of unity and simplicity. Harmony can
become dull if the repetition is overdone, but in
moderation it offers a sense of order and rhythm.
To put it simply, scale refers to the relative
size and proportion of objects. A plant

may be large or small, but its relationship
with neighbouring plants or objects is
what defines its scale. Proportion is key
to any successful design: a tiny cactus
and a weeping fig, for example, would
be totally out of scale and proportion
with each other. Get the scale right, and
you can create interesting relationships
between the plants in your display.
DESIGNING WITH SCALE
WHAT IS SCALE?
Scale describes your plants' sizes in comparison
with one another. It is closely related to proportion,
which describes the size of your plants within an
overall display. Plants of a similar size are harmonious
in scale, while those of different heights contrast in
scale. Scale is relative: any two plants can share the
same contrast of scale, provided that they maintain
the same proportions.
Scale describes
the size of two
objects in relation
to one another
Harmony of scale Contrast of scale

15
“ How do your house

plants measure up
against one another?”
CONTRAST OF SCALE
When plants are in proportion but of different
Fiddle-leaved figs scales, the eye is led from one to the other and
the relationship is less static, and more dynamic,
than thatof a harmonious display. There is a
sense of movement, going from small up to large,
drawing the eye to a focal point in the grouping
but maintaining proportion so that the relationship
isn't broken.
Golden barrel cacti

16
DESIGNING WITH
HARMONY OF SCALE
Harmony can reinforce pattern, so use plants of the
same scale to echo and exaggerate existing patterns
within your living space: the symmetry of a windowsill,
the staggered surface of a flight of stairs. Maintaining
the same scale across a display while varying other
design elements creates a harmonious pattern that
unites your plants.
1 The uniform scale of these three

kentia palms allows the display to echo
“ Keep the scale of the outline of the steps.
2 This cluster of three very different
your plant display trailing plants is given cohesion by

its harmony of scale (left to right:
donkey’s tail, string of pearls, and
in proportion with mistletoe cactus).
your space to
create equilibrium.”
DESIGNING WITH
DESIGNING WITH SCALE
DESIGNING WITH
SCALE CONTRAST OF SCALE
Grouping plants of different sizes offers a chance
to manipulate the eye and generate a sense of
movement. Perhaps you want to sweep along
What effect do you wish to create in your a windowsill or table, or conjure an impression
space? Do you want a formal pattern of of height, or lead the eye into a particular space.
Use contrast of scale to create a sight-line between
repetition and harmony, or an informal, your plants and draw attention to a focal point
eye-catching arrangement that creates within your grouping.
contrast and movement? You can lead

1 A sequence of ever-larger bromeliads
the eye up or down, screen or define a creates a line of visual interest along a
windowsill, with a smaller one at the end
space, or instantly introduce formality just to playfully challenge the order.
or informality simply with the proportion 2 The extreme contrast of scale
between the little missionary plant and
of your plant choices. the imposing Swiss cheese plant is given
cohesion by the mid-sized fiddle-leaved
fig, which unifies and balances the display.
17
1 2
1 2
18
HARMONY OF SHAPE
A row of the same plant varieties, or of plants that
have a similar shape, creates a harmonious pattern.
The repetition of shape provides a sense of order
and symmetry. No one plant may dominate, so
the overall effect is of unity and simplicity, with all
plants in the group having a similar visual weight.
UNDERSTANDING
SHAPE
While every plant has its own particular

growth habit, most will conform to a
range of shapes that you can use to
sculpt an overall line or outline for your
display. Depending on how you arrange
them, you can create a range of effects, Tall, architectural
pencil cactus
from a dynamic sweep to an ordered,
symmetrical pattern.
UNDERSTANDING SHAPE
WHAT IS SHAPE?
Every house plant is unique, shaped as much by
its environment as by its natural form, and no two
plants will ever share an identical outline. Nevertheless,
certain shapes tend to occur regularly throughout a
range of house plant types. Use these as a starting
point when identifying your plant's outline.
Rosette-
shaped Trailing
Tall, architectural, Domed, Unstructured,

jagged round wild
19
CONTRAST OF SHAPE
Using a variety of shapes creates a sense of
movement and draws the attention along the
display. Diverse shapes can be used to create
a sense of adventure and tension, with the visual
weight being carried across the group according
to how the shapes of the different plants interact.
Tall, architectural Tall, architectural

snake plant barbados aloe
Trailing
mistletoe
cactus
20
DESIGNING WITH
HARMONY OF SHAPE
“ Reposition your Repetition of shape across a symmetrical design
creates a sense of impact and order. Use plants
with strong, clean outlines, such as tall or domed
plants a few times shapes, and limit the display to just one or two plant
varieties to establish a sense of order and control.
until you’re happy that
they create a natural,

flowing movement
within the display.”
DESIGNING WITH
SHAPE
DESIGNING WITH SHAPE
Use the shapes of your plants to construct

and sculpt a display that offers real visual
impact in your living space. Establish
patterns by repeating one or two strong
shape types, or sculpt a unique outline
from plants with distinct forms that will 1
carry the eye through the design. To keep
your displays controlled, prune them back
regularly into shape (see pp194–95).
2
21
DESIGNING WITH
1 These snake plants
and aloes share the
CONTRAST OF SHAPE
same tall, architectural An asymmetrical display built from multiple
shape, creating a strong, shape types can be used to redefine a space.
symmetrical display. Use different plants’ unique visual features
2 Despite contrast of colour, to create a flowing, organic design, but
the matching forms of these keep it controlled; the outline should lead the
begonias unify the display. eye across the display without any obvious,
3 The repeated domes of irregular gaps that could break the flow.
mind-your-own-business 1 The central cluster of mini succulents
plants draw the eye along nestled within the larger trio builds into
the table. a varied but strongly united grouping.
2 The contrasting forms of the tall Swiss
cheese plant and trailing devil’s ivy create a
flowing, asymmetrical design bound together
by the mid-sized plants in the group. 1
3 2
22
HARMONY OF COLOUR
UNDERSTANDING Restricting your palette to different shades of the
COLOUR
same colour creates a sense of order and control.
Limiting an arrangement to such a narrow section
of the colour wheel can also provide an air of calm
and tranquility. Mixing in colours that lie adjacent
on the colour wheel, such as soft blues or gentle
Within Nature there are many different yellows, changes the rhythm but doesn’t unbalance
colours, shades, and tones for you to work the overall equilibrium. The colours still harmonise
and blend with each other, maintaining the simplicity.
with. Colours have emotional properties
too: greens, the predominant colour of

plant design, are restful and reassuring;
reds and oranges suggest warmth and
energy; white evokes purity and calm.
Use them to set the mood for your space.
WHAT IS COLOUR?
Colours in isolation behave differently from colours in
combination, and the colour wheel shows how those
relationships work. In between the primary colours of
UNDERSTANDING COLOUR
red, blue, and yellow lie all the shades they make in
combination (so, for example, green sits between blue
and yellow, which combine to make green). Towards
the centre are progressively lighter tints, while as the
circle progresses outwards, the shades get darker.
The colour wheel Adjacent colours Opposing colours

shows all colours, work in harmony, on the wheel can
along with their as they share the create contrast
hues, tints, tones, same range of and vibrancy.
and shades. hues and tones.
yellow-greens blue-greens blue-purples

23
CONTRAST OF COLOUR
Using colours from opposite sides of the colour
wheel, such as red and green or yellow and
purple, instantly adds energy to a display. For a
more subtle effect, try working with three colours
evenly spaced around the colour wheel (green,
orange, and purple, for instance); while still
contrasting, the palette is not as high-energy as a
two-colour, directly opposing contrast would be.
“ Nature offers a wonderful

variety of colours from
which you can create
your own artist’s palette.”
24
2
DESIGNING WITH COLOUR
1 3
DESIGNING WITH
DESIGNING WITH HARMONY OF COLOUR
COLOUR For a calm, ordered arrangement, plants need to blend
gently with one another colour-wise. A strict colour
palette of greens is refined, but you may need to vary
other elements to avoid a dull display. Broadening
Colour evokes emotion, so design your your palette to adjacent colours allows a wider range
of moods to be conjured, while retaining serenity and
display according to the mood you want order. Cool hues generally suggest a sense of space.
to create. For a sense of serenity, try
greens and whites; for a vibrant display, 1 A palette of purple flowers and foliage
harmonizes this group of different plants,
incorporate fiery oranges and reds. Cool setting a gentle yet welcoming mood.
colours can also impart a sense of space, 2 This little succulent display creates a
muted range of greens, from the red-green
while warm colours may suggest cosiness. kalanchoe to the white-speckled haworthia.
3 The rattlesnake plant’s variegated green
leaves (left) offer some interest when
paired with the fiddle-leaved fig behind it.
25
“ Colour is a powerful tool

for influencing the senses
and creating a particular
atmosphere or mood.”
DESIGNING
WITH CONTRAST
OF COLOUR
Warm colours can make spaces
appear more intimate. As they
contrast directly with green, they
also add drama to a plant display.
Use them to draw the eye in to your
display, or to create bold, vibrant
relationships between your plants.
1 The vivid orange moth orchid picks

up on the terracotta pots, and stands
out as the focal point in the display.
2 Make an air plant display pop
with a few red-coloured varieties.
3 Pinks and greens contrast in this
delicate yet colourful design.
1
26
HARMONY OF TEXTURE
When similar-textured plants are grouped together,
the quality of light and shadow across their foliage is
consistent, creating a relationship between the plants
despite any other visual differences, such as colour or
size. This relationship unifies the display, creating a
UNDERSTANDING balanced whole and imparting a sense of simplicity.
TEXTURE
While it can be a subtle design feature,

texture offers a vital sensory element in a
display. A plant’s surface type determines
how it interacts with light and shadow, Mistletoe cactus
which gives it a unique presence: for
example, velvety leaves have a soft, matte
appearance, while smooth, glossy foliage
presents a crisp, bright, clean-cut image.
UNDERSTANDING TEXTURE
WHAT IS TEXTURE?
Texture describes a plant’s foliage, and the effect
it creates when interacting with light and shadow.
While it adds a seemingly tactile dimension, texture
should primarily remain a visual design element:
some plants, like the bunny ears cactus, may look soft,
but you would not want to touch those fine spikes.
Velvety, matte
Feathery
“ Texture adds another
Plump,
dimension to your
fleshy
display through the
visual qualities of
Smooth,
glossy
Spiky,
rough the plant’s leaves.”
27
Bunny ears cactus
Mind-your-own-business
Donkey’s tail
CONTRAST OF TEXTURE
Strong textural contrasts create drama and interest.
The greater the contrast, the greater the emphasis
on each plant’s individual presence: the clean,
crisp foliage of a glossy-leaved plant versus the
wild, informal appearance of feathered leaves,
for instance, or a succulent’s plump, fleshy leaves
versus the spiky prickles of a cactus.
28
DESIGNING WITH
HARMONY OF TEXTURE
When a group of plants interact with light in the same
way – absorbing or reflecting it, offering similar textural
patterns of light and dark – there is a unity achieved
that brings the composition together as a whole.
A thoughtful combination of similar textures offset
by other contrasting elements creates interest,
“ Light, feathery foliage although too much repetition creates monotony.
carries less visual weight 1 Pairing the structurally different, but equally
glossy, fern arum (left) and radiator plant (right)
than denser, solid-leaved builds a strong relationship that is reinforced by

similarly glossy containers.
plants, so use more in 2 The Myrtillocactus (left) and rattail cactus

(right) contrast in almost every regard, but
their matching spiky textures offers a point
a display if you want of harmony.
the different textures

3 A seemingly random sprawling group of
air plants is given unity by the similarity of
their textures.
to appear balanced.” 4 Texture can harmonize a contrasting colour
palette, linking the two purple velvet plants
with the Echeveria (left) and Kalanchoe (right).
DESIGNING WITH
DESIGNING WITH TEXTURE
DESIGNING WITH
TEXTURE CONTRAST OF TEXTURE

Bringing diverse textures together builds excitement
and tension, as each texture brings a different mood
to the display. The relationship between the different
Texture is the key to evoking mood in a textures needs to be carefully balanced, however,
in order not to simply suggest chaos. The light and
display. Velvety, smooth, feathery, spiky: shadow should work across the design in such a way
your choice of textures will set the tone that the eye is drawn to the contrasts but can also
see the rhythm in them.
for your arrangement, and the mood
of the space your plants will occupy. 1 Fleshy, plump succulents contrast
How you then reinforce that texture interestingly with the pretty fronds
of moss; the voluptuousness of the
through harmony, or contrast it with succulents is accentuated by the delicacy
of the carpet and reindeer mosses.
a different texture, gives your design
2 The dominant, rougher texture of
its focus and emphasis. the golden polypody’s velvety leaves
is sandwiched between the softer, more
elegant Boston fern (left) and the fine
foliage of the delta maidenhair fern (right).
29
1 2
3 4
1 2
30
UNDERSTANDING
CONTAINERS
An integral part of any house plant arrangement is the choice of pots.
While neutral containers can offer a unifying backdrop for your plants,
a bold container choice that emphasises one or more design elements
can become a focal point in itself, highlighting your plants' best features
and tying them in with the surrounding environment.
SCALE SHAPE
UNDERSTANDING CONTAINERS
Containers that play with scale and proportion can A container's shape can harmonize or contrast
change the relationship between identical plants, with your plant's growing habit. It can echo
while matching containers of the same scale can and accentuate the natural shape of the plant,
unify a group of different plants. or contrast with it to create interest or drama.
31
“ Like the accessories that

tie together your favourite
outfit, containers add those
all-important finishing touches
to your house plant design.”
COLOUR TEXTURE
Colour and pattern on a container can be used The surface of your container can complement the
to highlight features in your plant. Stripes can echo texture of your plant's foliage, or directly contrast
stripes, colour can pick up on colour, highlighting with it, in order to play on the differences and the
what may have been a subtle accent on a plant. sensory interest of the display.
32
“ For an eye-catching
display, hunt out interesting
and unusual containers
in vintage shops.”
DESIGNING WITH HOUSEPLANTS
DESIGNING WITH
CONTAINERS
Be adventurous with your container choice.
Almost anything can be used as a container
or outer sleeve: as well as regular pots and
terrariums, try repurposing old household
items for conversation-starting display.
DESIGNING WITH CONTAINERS
1 This rustic white tray harmonizes with the dusty

appearance of the air plants it displays.
2 A glass terrarium can display an entire miniature
garden, allowing it to be admired from every angle.
3 These glass baubles act as tiny hanging
terrariums for the ferns and trailing plants within.
4 Try planting spring bulbs in glass jars to show
off their root systems as they grow.
5 Add drainage holes to the base of a clean food
tin to create a statement cacti container.
6 A vintage jug makes a curious decorative sleeve
for an orchid.
7 Wall-mounted containers turn these two staghorn
ferns into living pieces of art.
8 These classic, modern containers directly contrast
with the appearance of the echeverias. 1
33
2 3 4
5 6
7 8
34
DESIGNING WITH CONTAINERS
Use your imagination

With a little creative
thinking, almost
anything can be used
for a display. This
mismatched collection
of glasses harmonizes
with the succulents’
foliage colours, and
even shows off their
compost and roots.
35
36
DESIGNING FOR
BRIGHT
LIGHT
If you’re lucky enough to have lots of bright

light in your home (see pp180–81), take
advantage of the possibilities by designing
stunning displays of sun-loving plants. Fill
up an empty window from top to bottom
1
with lush greenery, or create a hanging
garden beneath a skylight. Just remember
to make sure your chosen plants can cope
with the level of sunlight they are exposed
to (see Plant Profiles, pp100–75).
DESIGNING FOR BRIGHT LIGHT
1 Combine a mixture of sun-loving plants of

different sizes and shapes to create a windowsill
display that makes the most of the bright
light levels.
2 Propagated cuttings (see pp96–99) make a
pretty and practical display in a bright area out
of direct sun.
3 Hang vanda orchids (see p115) in front of a
window to show off their roots, which can be
displayed without compost.
4 In the wild, many orchids trail from high tree
brances. Echo that by hanging them beneath a
skylight, out of direct sun.
5 This colourful, multi-level orchid display fills
a small window with blooms.
6 A hanging herb planter makes practical use
4
of a kitchen window.
37
2 3
5 6
38
DESIGNING FOR
LOW LIGHT
Don’t despair if your home does not

receive a lot of bright daylight. Many
plants prefer filtered sun, and some can
even thrive away in areas of light shade
(see pp180–81), since many of them
would naturally grow in the low light
beneath a forest canopy. Use this as
inspiration when designing for low light,
adding touches of lush greenery to evoke
a woodland landscape in your living space.
DESIGNING FOR LOW LIGHT
1 Large, glossy-leaved foliage and climbing

plants trained up walls brings a touch of the
jungle to an urban home.
2 Orchids that would naturally grow under
dense forest canopies, such as this moth orchid,
are well-suited to low light.
3 This small display of woodland plants will thrive
in filtered sun/light shade (L–R: golden polypody,
mind-your-own-business, Cretan brake fern).
4 Keep a bowl of damp pebbles near a
collection of lush feathery forest ferns to
keep them looking hydrated and fresh
(L–R: crocodile fern, Boston fern).
5 Add flashes of colour to a low-light display
by using flowering plants and variegated leaves
(such as those of a polka-dot begonia, centre).
1
39
2 3
4 5
40
DESIGNING FOR
HUMIDITY
Most moisture-loving plants need regular

misting and care, but what if you could
display them in a ready-made humid space
in which they could thrive? Use humidity
to your advantage and be adventurous
in your designs: dare to turn a kitchen into
a jungle, or take over the bathroom with
ambitious living walls and displays, where
the steam will naturally mist humidity-lovers
1
like ferns, bromeliads, and air plants.
DESIGNING FOR HUMIDITY
1 Contrast the bright foliage of a bathroom

bromeliad display with the addition of a
humidity-loving Amazonian elephant’s ear.
2 Assemble a kokedama string garden (see
pp76–79) in humid areas of your home (L–R:
Boston fern, spider plant, Cretan brake fern).
3 A trailing string of hearts plant adds a touch
of atmosphere to a bathroom counter.
4 Use a humid spot to keep feathery foliage
lush and fresh (L–R: mind-your-own-business,
delta maidenhair fern, and string of pearls).
5 Since air plants draw moisture from the air,
display them in a humid room in a wire frame
or on a stand (see pp56–59).
6 Carnivorous plants love moist, boggy
environments, so will thrive in a humid space.
4
41
2 3
5 6
42
DESIGNING FOR
SPACE
Any living space, large or small, offers

plenty of opportunities to get creative with
house plant design. If you have no free
surfaces, create a colony of hanging plants
above your head. If you have bare walls,
swap artwork for architectural displays of
plant-filled shelves. With a little imagination,
you will find more and more ways to turn
any space into an indoor oasis.
DESIGNING FOR SPACE
1 If you want to hang non-trailing plants from

the ceiling, use decorative containers that will
look attractive from below. Hang climbing plants
from rafters, if your home has them, to allow
the foliage to grow up and along the beams.
2 Climbing plants aren’t just for the garden;
you can also train them to indoor walls to fill
an empty space.
3 Fill a tall set of shelves with a curated selection
of plants to create your own “green library”.
4 Assemble a lush collection of hanging plants
to create a “living curtain” of foliage.
5 Create a miniature garden in a tiny space using a
terrarium (see pp64–67 and pp84–87). Display it at
eye level, where the detail can be closely admired.
6 Almost any space is up for grabs when designing
plant displays. A staircase, for example, shows
off your plants at eye level and from above as
you walk down.
4
43
2 3
5 6
44
DESIGNING FOR
MINDFULNESS
Modern life doesn’t always offer enough opportunities
to enjoy the Great Outdoors, especially for those of
us living in built-up urban environments with little daily
access to parks or woodland. Studies have shown that
DESIGNING FOR
living and working in a plant-filled environment can
noticeably boost mental wellbeing (see below left).
WELLBEING
By adding touches of greenery throughout your home,
especially in the places where you spend the most

time, you will create a more calming atmosphere in
which you can go about your daily life. In particular,
keep plants near any windows that look out onto
There is far more to house plant design built-up areas to bring nature into your view.
than visual beauty. Plants aren’t just

1 A plant-filled home can provide a
decorative objects: they are capable psychological boost when access to nature
of lowering our stress levels, filling our is otherwise limited. For the full effect,
create an indoor jungle packed to the
homes with fragrance, and even ridding rafters with foliage to stimulate your mind
and improve your mood.
the air we breathe of harmful pollutants
(see pp46–47). Follow the advice on these
pages to make the most of these benefits.
DESIGNING FOR WELLBEING
DESIGNING FOR
THE SENSES
Fragrant house plants add an extra sensory dimension
to any plant design. We often bring bulbs and other
scented plants into our homes during the darkest
months of the year to remind ourselves of the sights
and smells of spring. Position them in a front hallway
for a bright, fragrant welcome, or near a door so that
you will catch a hint of fragrance every time you pass.
HOW HOUSE PLANTS HELP
Multiple studies have shown that there are 1 Nelly Isler (left) and brassia orchid blooms
tangible psychological benefits to keeping both provide a burst of scent.
plants in indoor spaces such as homes and 2 Stephanotis is a classic plant choice
offices. After spending time living and working when designing for scent.
alongside plants, those taking part in the studies
3 Thyme bushes release a wonderful
found that, on average:
fragrance when brushed against in passing.
• their mood levels improved 4 Combine scented and non-scented
• they felt less stressed
plants to create a larger display without
an overwhelming amount of fragrance (L–R:
• they felt more productive peace lily, scented hoya, scented cyclamen).
• their attention span improved (in some studies)
5 “Force” grape hyacinth bulbs for scent and
colour during winter (see pp198–99).
45
2 3
1 4 5
46
DESIGNING FOR
AIR PURIFICATION
In addition to boosting our mood, house plants can even
improve our physical health and wellbeing by filtering harmful
pollutants, including formaldehyde and benzene, from the air
inside our homes and offices.
These chemicals, which are found in many everyday products,
including cosmetics, soft furnishings, and detergents, are
released into the atmosphere over time, and may build up
inside poorly ventilated buildings. This polluted air can, in high

enough quantities, lead to headaches, fatigue, and eye, nose,
and throat irritation.
Luckily, house plants can help. Studies have shown that plants
are able to filter these pollutants from indoor air by drawing in the
chemicals as they respire, leaving the air cleaner and healthier
for us to breathe. What better excuse, then, than to fill your
home with dozens of air-purifying plants?
Madagascar
dragon tree
Peace lily
Chinese
evergreen
Spider plant
47
THE BEST PLANTS FOR AIR PURIFICATION

While most plants are able to purify the air to some extent,
some varieties are especially effective at removing certain
chemicals from the air. These include:
For formaldehyde: For both formaldehyde For benzene:

and benzene:
• Peace lily • Jade tree
• Chinese evergreen • Spider plant • Bamboo palm
• Bamboo palm • Madagascar • Cast iron plant
dragon tree • Dumb cane
• Snake plant • Kentia palm
• India rubber plant
• Boston fern
• Devil’s ivy
• Dragon plan
• Fern arum
India
rubber
plant
Snake
plants
Jade tree
48
Bring the outside in

Who needs a garden
when you can create
your own indoor oasis
of lush greenery? This
forest of foliage fills
every available space
with mood-boosting,
air-purifying houseplants.
49
HOUSE PLANT
PROJECTS
52
DESERTSCAPE
Grouping your cacti and succulent collection together in a single container
is a great way to show off their different characteristics. The container does
not have to be deep, as cacti have shallow root systems, but make sure it
has adequate drainage; adding a layer of gravel beneath the compost will
help prevent waterlogging if your container has no drainage holes.
HOUSE PLANT PROJECTS
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
PLANTS
• Selection of cacti, succulents,
and plants with similar care needs,
such as bunny ears cacti, golden
barrel cacti, and African spears
OTHER MATERIALS
• Shallow decorative container,
DESERTSCAPE
preferably with drainage holes

• Fine-grade gravel
• Activated charcoal
• Cactus compost
• Pebbles and small stones,
to decorate
TOOLS
• Small tray, for watering
• Spoon or small trowel
• Dibber
• Protective cactus gloves
• Small paintbrush, for dusting
53
54
1 Water the cacti and other plants thoroughly by placing

them on a small tray filled with water. This will encourage
the roots to make good contact with the new compost.
2 Pour a layer of gravel, approximately 2.5cm (1in) deep,
into the base of the container. Mix in a few spoonfuls of
activated charcoal to prevent the growth of fungi. Top with
an even layer of cactus compost, 5–7.5cm (2–4in) deep.
DESERTSCAPE
3 While still in their pots, arrange the plants on top of

the compost until you are happy with their placement.
Allow plenty of room for growth. Once you like the
4 Select your first plant. Using the dibber, make a hole
in the compost large enough to fit the plant’s root ball.
Wearing gloves, remove the plant from its pot and gently
arrangement, remove the plants, remembering where tease the roots to release excess soil. Repeat for the
you intend to plant them. remaining plants.
55
5 Using a spoon, carefully fill in any gaps between the

plants with compost. Firm the compost down using the
back of the spoon or the dibber.
HOW TO MAINTAIN
TEMPERATURE 10–30°C (50–86°F)
LIGHT Sun/Filtered sun in summer
HUMIDITY Low
CARE Easy
WATERING Water your cacti when the compost is completely

dry. Depending on the conditions of your living space, this will
usually take 3–4 weeks. Soak the compost completely, but take
care not to overwater, especially if your container does not have
drainage holes, as this could cause root rot. Do not water at all
between October and March.
MAINTENANCE AND CARE Gently brush off any compost

caught in the spines of the plants with a soft paintbrush. Place
6 Decorate the surface of the compost with

pebbles and small stones.
on a sunny windowsill from autumn to spring; move the display
further away from the window in summer, when the heat can
become too intense. Watch out for draughts in winter, and
relocate if necessary.
56
AIR PLANT STAND

Rootless air plants do not need soil to survive, and in the wild they are found
clinging to rocky surfaces and hanging from the branches of trees. Echo their
natural habitat by growing them on a wooden stand, which can comfortably
display a small collection of air plants without using any glue or wire to
hold them in place.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
PLANTS
• Decorative mosses and lichen
• Selection of air plants in a
variety of shapes, colours,
and sizes (see pp174–75)
OTHER MATERIALS
AIR PLANT STAND
• Untreated, rugged piece of wood with

plenty of crevices and hollows, such as
driftwood, grapewood, cork bark, or
tree fern
• Small branch
• Florist’s wire
TOOLS
• Large bowl, for soaking
• Wire cutters
• Hot glue gun (optional)
57
58
1 If using ocean driftwood, make sure it has been

pre-soaked to remove all salt residue. To desalinate
your own driftwood, soak it in freshwater for several weeks,
replenishing the water a few times during this period.
AIR PLANT STAND
2 Thread small pieces of moss onto the small branch and

place it on top of the larger piece of wood. This will
double up as both a decorative feature and an additional
3 Fasten the branch to the wood with wire, wrapping
it around at least a couple of times to ensure it
is secure.
platform upon which to arrange your smaller air plants.
59
4 Attach bunches of moss and lichen to the larger piece

of wood, using the wire or hot glue to secure them in
place. If using glue, allow it to cool and solidify completely
before adding your air plants to the display.
HOW TO MAINTAIN
LIGHT Filtered sun
HUMIDITY High
CARE Easy
WATERING Water your air plants with rainwater or distilled water

once a week (see p185). Make sure the water is at lukewarm or at
room temperature; cold water will shock the plants. Place them
on a soft dishcloth and let them dry out completely before
returning them to the stand. You can mist them 2–3 times a week.
MAINTENANCE AND CARE Place the stand in filtered sun.

Make sure young plants have room to grow; if they become
too large for their current spot, move them to a roomier, more
stable part of the stand.
5 Gently arrange your air plants in the wood’s natural

crevices. Lighter, more delicate air plants can be
placed along the attached branch. Do not glue the
Never use glue or wire to attach airplants to a display. Not
only would this make it very difficult to soak the plants, but
air plants in place (see right). the chemicals in glue may seriously harm the plants.
60
MACRAMÉ HANGER
Macramé, the art of decoratively knotting cords and rope, can be used
to create a simple hanger in which to display your favourite house plants.
Use wooden beads and cotton cord to create the simple, modern look shown
here, or try a different materials, such as metallic beads or unbleached rope,
to design a unique macramé hanger of your own.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
PLANT
• Suitable plant in a 15cm (6in) pot,
such as a delta maidenhair fern
OTHER MATERIALS
• 10m (32ft) strong, non-stretch cord
or string, such as cotton cord
• Wooden ring
MACRAMÉ HANGER
• S-hook
• 8 wooden beads (4 small and 4 large)
• Decorative pot sleeve suitable for
a 15cm (6in) plant
TOOLS
• Ruler or tape measure
• Scissors
61
62
loop
long tail
short tail
1 Cut 4 lengths of cotton cord measuring 220cm (7¼ft),

and 2 lengths measuring 50cm (20in). Thread the 4 long
cords through the wooden ring, folding them in half over the
2 Take one of the shorter cords and make a loop at one
end. Pinch the loop in place on top of the trailing cords
in your right hand, leaving both the long and short tails of
edge. Hold the cords together in one hand just below the the loop above the wooden ring.
ring, leaving the lengths trailing below.
MACRAMÉ HANGER
long tail
loop
short tail
loop
short tail
long tail
3 Tightly wrap the long tail around the loop and trailing
cords 5 times, moving further away from the wooden
ring. After 5 turns, thread the remainder of the long tail
4 Pull the short tail so that the loop slides inside the
5 turns. Cut off both ends close to the binding and
tuck inside to complete the knot. This technique is
through the loop hole. known as a “wrapping knot”.
63
5 Using the S-hook, hang the ring

up and check that you have 8
equal lengths of cord hanging down.
6 Take 1 cord from 2 adjacent pairs
and tie them together in a knot
about 8cm (3in) down from the beads.
7 Gather all the cords about 6cm
(2in) below these knots. Using the
second short length of cord, tie them
Separate the cords into 4 pairs. Thread Repeat this 3 times until all the cords together in another wrapping knot
1 small and 1 large wooden bead are tied together. Repeat this process (see steps 2–4). Ensure this knot is as
onto each pair of cords, approximately about 6cm (2in) below these knots tight as possible, then trim any excess
30cm (12in) down from the ring. (again taking 2 cords from adjacent cord to the desired length.
pairs) to make another set of knots.
The cords should now resemble a net.
HOW TO MAINTAIN
WATERING When the plant needs watering, carefully
remove it (and the pot) from the macramé hanger to
prevent the cord from staining and rotting.
MAINTENANCE AND CARE Before displaying your plant,

test its weight in the macramé hanger by gently lifting it up
by the S-hook. The wrapping knots should hold firm; if the
pot feels insecure within the hanger, remove it and retie
the knots until you are confident that they will hold.
As the plant grows, it will cascade beautifully over the

sides of the hanger. If it becomes too large and needs
repotting, replace it with another 15cm (6in) plant rather
than squeezing it back into the hanger in its larger pot.
8 Finally, fit your decorative pot sleeve securely into

the hanger, then gently place your choice of plant
inside the pot.
64
OPEN BOTTLE
TERRARIUM
A terrarium is a semi-enclosed glass container that creates a warm, humid
microclimate for the plants that grow within. For this open bottle terrarium,
choose a selection of foliage plants that showcase a variety of leaf shapes and
colours. Pick one large “feature” plant that will stand out from the rest, taking
care not to overcrowd the bottle so that they all have room to grow.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
PLANTS
• Selection of humidity-loving
foliage plants (including 1 larger
focal plant), such as small ferns,
OPEN BOTTLE TERRARIUM
peperomias, and fittonias

• Decorative mosses (optional)
OTHER MATERIALS
• Wide, open-topped, heavy glass
bottle or jar
• Fine-grade gravel
• Multipurpose compost
• Decorative pebbles (optional)
EQUIPMENT
• Dibber
• Small watering can with a
rose attachment
65
66
1 Pour a layer of gravel, approximately 2.5cm (1in) deep,

into the base of the bottle for drainage. Mix in a few
spoonfuls of activated charcoal to prevent the growth
of fungi.
OPEN BOTTLE TERRARIUM
2 Add an even layer of compost, 5–7.5cm (2–4in) deep,

over the gravel–charcoal mixture. Make a hole in the
compost the same size as the focal plant’s root ball.
3 Remove the focal plant from its pot and loosen the roots
to encourage healthy growth. Gently place the plant in
the hole.
67
4 Firm the compost around the base of the plant

using the dibber. Repeat steps 3–4 with your
remaining plants.
HOW TO MAINTAIN
WATERING Use a small watering can fitted with a rose
attachment to water the plants. The grouped plants and
semi-enclosed space create a humid environment that
traps moisture, so take care not to overwater. Only water
the plants when the compost dries out.
MAINTENANCE AND CARE Place the terrarium in a

5 If you wish, cover the surface of the compost with
decorative mosses or pebbles. Carefully wipe the
inside of the vase clean.
bright spot, but out of direct sunlight, which may scorch
the leaves through the glass.
68
WILLOW
CLIMBING FRAME
This simple support for climbing plants is quick and easy to assemble,
and makes an attractive feature even before it is hidden by leafy plant growth.
Once you’ve mastered this basic frame, you can apply the technique to more
ambitious climbing projects by training the plant’s stems onto a trellis room
divider or staircase, or fanning them out across a wall.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
PLANT
• Climbing plant, such as a
philodendron, hoya, jasmine,
or stephanotis
WILLOW CLIMBING FRAME
OTHER MATERIALS
• Heavy-based pot with drainage holes
• House plant or multipurpose compost
• 7 pliable willow poles, each at least
1m (3ft) in length
• Garden twine
TOOLS
• Secateurs
69
70
1 Fill your pot with compost. Insert 6 evenly spaced

willow poles around the edge of the pot. 2 Gather the poles together at a comfortable height
directly above the centre of the pot, and tie together
securely with a length of twine. Trim away any excess
length from the tops of the poles using secateurs.
WILLOW CLIMBING FRAME
3 Weave the final length of willow through the poles,

roughly one-third of the way up the stand. Secure in
place with twine to prevent it from slipping, then remove
4 Make a hole in the compost the size of the root ball
and lower the plant in, ensuring it sits at the same level
that it rested at in its original pot. Fill in any gaps with new
the entire frame from the pot and place it to one side. compost, firming it down gently.
71
6 One by one, wrap and weave the long stems of

the plant around the poles. Thicker or heavier stems
may need to be tied in with the twine; take care not to
tie it too tightly.
HOW TO MAINTAIN
WATERING Keep the compost moist from spring to
autumn; reduce in winter, watering when the top of the
compost feels dry. Mist every few days in summer, or
when necessary.
MAINTENANCE AND CARE As the plant grows,

continue to weave the stems around the willow poles,
tying them in with twine where necessary. If the plant
climbs higher than the frame, most can be pruned to
keep the size in check and the plant compact.
Alternatively, position the overgrown plant next to a trellis

and weave the longer stems onto the frame, training it
over time and securing with garden twine.
5 Spread the untangled stems of the climber out in a fan

around the base of the pot. Insert the willow frame back
into the compost, over the stems.
72
SUCCULENT WREATH
Plant an assortment of small succulent plants into a ring of carpet
moss to create a beautiful and unique decorative wreath that will require
minimal care when kept in the right conditions. Pair a variety of succulents
with several different types of fluffy moss to add interest and character
to your display.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
PLANTS
• Carpet moss
• Selection of approximately
12 mini succulent plants, each
with a 5cm (2in) pot size, such
as echeverias, sempervivums,
aeoniums, and crassulas
SUCCULENT WREATH
• Reindeer moss
OTHER MATERIALS
• Florist’s wire wreath frame,
30cm (12in) in diameter
• Compost
• Florist’s mossing pins
TOOLS
• Tray, for soaking
• Wire cutters
• Mister spray (optional)
73
74
1 Soak the pieces of carpet moss in a tray of water, to

make them easier to work with. 2 Line the wire wreath frame with the carpet moss.
Make sure that the bottom and sides of the frame
are covered, and that you have enough moss to fold
over the root balls of the plants.
SUCCULENT WREATH
3 Remove the plants from their pots and loosen their

roots. Fold back the moss and bed the plants into the
frame, allowing plenty of room for the plants to grow. Fill
4 Fold the carpet moss back into place, over and
around the bases of the plants and compost.
in the empty spaces between the plants with compost.

75
5 Use the mossing pins to secure the

moss firmly around the base of the
plants. Push the pins all the way down
6 For extra security, wrap florist’s wire
around your wreath to stop the
moss unravelling as it beds down.
7 Finally, cover any exposed areas of
soil or wire with pieces of reindeer
moss, firmly pinning them in place.
into the soil, so the moss holds tightly
in place.
HOW TO MAINTAIN
WATERING Depending on the heat and the humidity
of the room, water the display approximately once a
week by submerging the mossy base in a sink full of
water. Let the wreath fully dry out before soaking it
again. If the air is very dry, mist the plants occasionally.
MAINTENANCE AND CARE Place your wreath

out of direct sunlight and heat. Keep it laid flat for
1–2 months as the roots settle in. After this period, it
will be safe to hang your wreath upright if you wish.
76
KOKEDAMA FERN
A type of bonsai, “kokedama” is the practice of suspending the roots of a
plant in a mud ball coated with soft green moss. It is a great way to make
a beautiful, hanging, sculptural object with a live plant. Arranging many
kokedama plants together forms what is known as a “string garden”.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
PLANTS
• Mature fern, such as a Cretan brake,
asparagus, or staghorn fern
• Sheet of carpet moss
OTHER MATERIALS
• Potting compost
• Akadama (clay–like mineral
used in bonsai)
KOKEDAMA FERN
• Garden twine
TOOLS
• Bucket
• Scissors
• Mister spray
77
78
1 Create a 2:1 mixture of potting compost and akadama

in a bucket, adding a little water until it reaches a sticky,
wet consistency. The akadama turns the compost into
2 Take the fern from its pot and gently shake loose
some of the original compost from its roots.
a “mud–cake” that will mould around the plant’s roots.

KOKEDAMA FERN
3 Encase the fern roots in a layer of the damp

compost–akadama mixture, approximately 2.5cm (1in)
thick. Aim to create a ball of about the same volume as the
4 Envelope the root ball in a sheet of carpet moss,
gathering the moss around the stem.
original pot.
79
5 Trim the excess moss with a pair of scissors, leaving

some behind at the neck of the root ball.
HOW TO MAINTAIN
LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade
HUMIDITY Moderate
CARE Fairly easy
WATERING Check if your plant needs to be watered by

testing the weight of the moss ball. When it feels light,
submerge the kokedama ball in water, keeping the foliage dry.
Allow it to soak for 10–25 minutes, or until it is fully saturated.
Remove the kokedama from the bucket, and gently squeeze
the ball to drain any excess water.
6 Wrap twine around the neck of the moss ball to
secure the moss in place. Knot the twine firmly. To
hang the fern up, attach a second length of string around MAINTENANCE AND CARE Place your kokedama in a humid
the neck of the kokedama to form a loop. spot with indirect light. Mist regularly using a spray bottle.
80
MOSS PICTURE FRAME

Living walls and vertical gardens have become increasingly popular in
urban homes across the world. You can easily make one at home using a
selection of mosses and moss-like plants, or alternatively with air plants.
Creating a moss arrangement is all about combining various textures
and colours to mimic a landscape.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
PLANTS
• Variety of different mosses, such
as sphagnum moss to use as a
foundation, bun moss to create
hills and dips, and more decorative
types like reindeer moss or trailing
Spanish moss
MOSS PICTURE FRAME
• Moss-like plants, such as

mind-your-own-business (see p140)
OTHER MATERIALS
• Repurposed shallow wooden
container, such as a wine crate
or old chitting tray, with a depth
of approximately 10cm (4in)
• Plastic bin liner
• Florist’s mossing pins
• Decorative branches, such as twigs
with lichens growing on them and
small pieces of driftwood
TOOLS
• Stapler or staple gun
• Wire cutters
• Watering can with a rose attachment
or mister spray
81
82
1 Line the back of the wooden container with a plastic

bin liner, stapling it into place. This will help retain
moisture within the frame.
2 Working on a flat surface, staple or pin a thin layer
of sphagnum moss to the back of the container
to completely cover the plastic.
MOSS PICTURE FRAME
3 Arrange pieces of bun moss in the container

to add texture and interest. Pin to the sphagnum
moss using mossing pins. Begin adding pieces
4 Remove your moss-like plants from their pots and
loosen the roots. Bed the plants down between
mounds of bun moss.
of decorative mosses to the display as desired.
83
HOW TO MAINTAIN
WATERING Lightly water or mist the moss frame every few
days. If dry air or central heating dries the plant out, you can
also completely soak the moss to revive it.
MAINTENANCE AND CARE Keep the frame laid flat for

1–2 months, to allow the moss and rooted plants to settle
into place. After that time, you can prop up the display or
hang it upright if you wish.
As with all photosynthetic organisms, your moss wall will prefer

high humidity and indirect light; a bathroom would be ideal.
5 For extra interest, attach pieces of decorative moss

to twigs and small branches using wire, then place them
into the display by wedging them securely into the lower
corners of the frame.
6 Add a few final pieces of decorative mosses to the

display as desired, combining different colours and
textures to mimic a landscape. Secure them discreetly
to the twigs using wire.
84
DRY TERRARIUM
Unlike the humidity-loving plants displayed in the bottle terrarium
(see pp64–67), the plants in this display prefer drier, desert-like conditions.
Choose a selection of succulents and cacti that vary in height and shape
to create a more interesting display. This open terrarium does
not self-irrigate, and so must be watered occasionally.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
PLANTS
• Selection of plants (including
1 larger focal plant), such as
Crassula, Haworthia, and
Echeveria
DRY TERRARIUM
OTHER MATERIALS
• Glass terrarium with an
opening of at least 18cm (7in)
• Gravel or small pebbles
• Cactus compost
• Decorative pebbles
TOOLS
• Small trowel or spoon
• Dibber
• Watering can
85
86
1 Pour a shallow layer of gravel, with a depth of

approximately 2.5cm (1in), over the base of the
terrarium. Mix a small handful of activated charcoal
2 Add a layer of cactus compost, approximately 5–7.5cm
(2–4in) deep, on top of the gravel–charcoal mixture.
into the gravel.

DRY TERRARIUM
3 Select your focal plant and remove it from its pot.

Gently loosen the roots to encourage growth. 4 Make a hole in the compost the same size as the root
ball and gently place the plant in it. Use the dibber to
firm the compost around the base of the plant.
87
5 Repeat this process with 2–3 smaller plants. Leave space

between the plants to allow for both growth and good
air flow. This will prevent a build up of humidity between the
plants, which could lead to rot.
HOW TO MAINTAIN
WATERING Only water your display occasionally,
when the compost completely dries out. The
semi-enclosed space of the terrarium will retain
moisture and create humidity, so take care not
to overwater, as this may cause rot.
MAINTENANCE AND CARE Place your

terrarium in indirect light; bright light could
6 Once the plants are firmly in place, carefully place
decorative pebbles on top of the compost using a spoon. magnify within the glass container and cause
the plants to overheat and dry out.
88
WOOD-MOUNTED
ORCHID
Mounting an orchid on decorative wood makes a beautiful display and can
be beneficial to your orchid’s health. It mimics how the orchid would grow
naturally and allows for good drainage and ventilation to the roots,
which will help your plant to thrive and prevent disease.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
PLANTS
• Small orchid, such as a moth orchid
or nobile dendrobium
• Spahgnum and bun mosses
OTHER MATERIALS
WOOD-MOUNTED ORCHID
• Decorative piece of wood, such as

driftwood, tree bark, cork bark,
or birch pole
TOOLS
• Wire cutters
89
90
1 Remove the orchid from its pot and carefully tease

the potting medium from its roots.
WOOD-MOUNTED ORCHID
2 Pack sphagnum moss evenly in and around the roots

of the orchid, leaving some outer roots partially
exposed. Gently secure in place with a little wire.
3 Position the orchid on the piece of wood with the plant’s
crown angled downward. Wrap the wire around the
base and roots of the orchid to secure it to the wood.
91
4 Take care not to wrap the wire around the orchid too
tightly, as this could damage it. When the plant feels
comfortably secure, twist the two ends of wire together
and cut away the excess with wire cutters.
HOW TO MAINTAIN
HUMIDITY Moderate/High
CARE Easy
WATERING Orchids attached to mounts tend to dry out fairly

quickly, so water at least three times a week. To water the plant,
submerge the entire mount in a large, deep bowl for 20 minutes
until completely saturated.
MAINTENANCE AND CARE Place in a humid area and mist

daily. Leave the wire intact while the orchid’s roots find secure
purchase on the wood. The root moss will eventually fall away
5 Decorate the rest of the piece of wood with additional

handfuls of moss, using wire to secure them in place.
as the plant grows new roots and explores the wood’s surface.
Over time, the plant will develop the elegant, flattened shape
characteristic of orchids found in the wild.
92
LIVING SPACE DIVIDER

A moveable trailing plant space divider can be used to create a
beautiful temporary wall or living screen between different parts of
your indoor space. Choose bushier plants to fill out the divider more
completely, or show off a selection of decorative containers using
macramé hangers (see pp60–63).
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
PLANTS
• Selection of trailing plants that
prefer bright, indirect sun, such
as string of pearls, string of hearts,
and mistletoe cacti
• Selection of tall, mid-sized foliage
plants with similar requirements,
such as fiddle-leaved figs, spider

plant, and most ferns
OTHER MATERIALS
• Free-standing clothes rail, ideally
with a lower shelf
• String
• S-hooks
• Decorative pot sleeves
of appropriate sizes
• Macrame hangers
• Large pot or bucket
TOOLS
• Scissors
• Watering can
93
94
1 Select your first trailing plant. If its plastic pot is hidden

by foliage, make 3 evenly spaced holes through the rim
of the pot with a pair of scissors. Thread a length of string
2 Gather the three strings together directly above the
centre of the plant at the length from which you want
the plant to hang from the rail. Tie a secure knot, leaving
through each hole, securing each in place with a firm knot. a short length of string above.
3 Form a small loop with the excess string, and tie it to the
existing knot as tightly and neatly as possible. Trim any
remaining string with scissors.
4 Slip the bottom curve of an S-hook through the loop
and slowly lift the plant, checking that all the knots are
secure. Clip the top curve of the S-hook over the bar of
the clothes rail. Repeat for all the plants you wish to hang.
95
5 If you wish to hide a plastic pot from view, place the

plant in a decorative sleeve and nestle it securely into
a macramé hanger. Tie the hanger securely onto the rail, or
use an S-hook to hold it in place.
HOW TO MAINTAIN
WATERING Water and mist all plants as required. Remove
plants from macramé hangers when watering them, to prevent
saturating the decorative cord or rope (which could lead to rot
over time).
6 Once the rail is full, fill the gaps beneath by arranging a

second selection of plants on the shelf beneath. Try out
different combinations of plants and decorative pots until
MAINTENANCE AND CARE Wherever you position your room
divider, ensure that the space is draught free. Prune plants as
you are happy with the final appearance of your living frame. needed; swap them out if they grow too large for the display.
96
PROPAGATION SHELF
Rooting plants in water in pretty glass vessels makes a great display on a
shelf or side table. You can make a temporary display while propagating
offcuts to plant up later (see p204), or leave them as they are to create
a permanent “water garden”. This method is very simple, but not suited
to all plants so choose your cuttings carefully.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
PLANTS
• Cuttings from mature, healthy plants,
such as Tradescantia, Philodendron,
Crassula, Pilea, Epiphyllum, Begonia,
and Chlorophytum
OTHER MATERIALS
• Glass bottles or vases of different
PROPAGATION SHELF
heights and shapes; flask-like vessels

with narrow necks and large bodies
work best
• Spring water, mineral water,
or rainwater
TOOLS
• Small pair of pruning shears or scissors
97
1 Select your first cutting. Measure it against the bottle in

which you wish to display it, then remove any leaves from
the portion of the stem that will be submerged in water.
2 If taking a cutting of a plant’s offset, such as a “baby
spider” from a spider plant (see p207), make the cut
at the base of the offset’s individual stem. This is where
the rooting hormone is most concentrated in the plant.
3 Half-fill your bottle with rainwater or distilled water

(do not use tap water). Make sure to use a glass
bottle with plenty of room, so that the roots receive
4 Place the cutting in the vase and leave it, undisturbed, on
your chosen propagation shelf. Repeat this process with
your remaining cuttings, each matched to a proportionally
plenty of light and have space to grow. sized glass bottle or vase, until your display is complete.
PROPAGATION SHELF HOUSE PLANT PROJECTS 98
99
HOW TO MAINTAIN
WATERING Top up the bottles and vases
with more water as and when needed.
MAINTENANCE AND CARE After just a

few weeks, your cuttings will begin to sprout
roots. At this stage, if you want to plant your
propagated cuttings, follow the instructions
on p204.
You can also keep the cuttings permanently

in water. If you choose to do so, remember
to change the water or trim back the roots
after a year or so.
PLANT
PROFILES
102
BROMELIADS
PLANT PROFILES
AMAZONIAN
ZEBRA PLANT
Aechmea chantinii
These colourful plants bloom for many

months and add a hint of the tropics LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade
HUMIDITY Moderate
to any bright room. They grow on trees
BROMELIADS
CARE Fairly easy

in their native habitat, deriving moisture HEIGHT & SPREAD 60 x 60cm (2 x 2ft)
and nutrients from the air rather than soil, This dramatic plant’s dark green and
silver striped leaves and tall flower spikes
but they do not require exceptionally high appear from late spring to autumn. The
blooms are composed of red, orange,
humidity levels and are quite easy to care and yellow bracts (petal-like modified
for. After blooming, the plants die back, leaves) and small red flowers.
but most bromeliads produce “baby” WATERING Fill the cup-like well in the
centre of the leaf rosette with rainwater or
offsets (see pp206–07) next to the base distilled water; replenish every 4–8 weeks.
Keep the compost moist, but allow it to
of the old leaves, which then grow dry out between waterings in winter. Mist
into new plants. the plant every day or two in hot weather.
FEEDING From spring to late summer,
apply a half-strength balanced liquid
feed every 2 weeks in the leaf well.
PLANTING AND CARE Grow in an
equal mix of orchid compost, perlite, and
coir fibre (or a 50:50 mix of orchid and
multipurpose compost) in a 12.5cm–15cm
(5–6in) pot. Repot young plants in a
container one size larger.
103
SILVER VASE PLANT

Aechmea fasciata AGM

HUMIDITY Moderate
CARE Fairly easy
HEIGHT & SPREAD
60 x 60cm (2 x 2ft)
The elegant arching silver and

green leaves offer reason enough
to grow this beautiful plant. In
summer, a tall flower spike appears,
topped with delicate pink bracts
and small purple flowers that add
to its star quality.
WATERING Fill the well in the centre

of the leaf rosette with rain or distilled
water; replenish every 4–8 weeks. Keep
the compost moist; allow it to dry out
between waterings in winter. Mist plants
every day or two in hot weather.
fertilizer every 2 weeks to the leafy well.
PLANTING AND CARE Grow in a
12.5cm–15cm (5–6in) pot in an equal
mix of orchid compost, perlite, and
multipurpose compost). Repot young
plants in a container one size larger.
VARIEGATED
PINEAPPLE
Ananas comosus var. variegatus
TEMPERATURE 16–29°C (60–85°F) WATERING Water frequently in spring

LIGHT Sun and summer, but keep the compost just
HUMIDITY Moderate moist in winter. Mist daily or set on a tray
CARE Fairly easy of damp pebbles.
HEIGHT & SPREAD At least FEEDING Apply a half-strength balanced
60 x 90cm (2 x 3ft) liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks from spring
to autumn and once a month in winter.
Show-stopping, spiny-edged,
green, and cream foliage and PLANTING AND CARE Plant in an equal
pretty yellow and purple flowers mix of fine composted bark or orchid
make up for the fact that this compost, perlite, and coir fibre (or a
pineapple’s red fruits are bitter and 50:50 mix of orchid and multipurpose
inedible. It will make a feature in any compost is ideal). A heavy 12.5–15cm
sunny room, but check that you have (5–6in) pot will restrict the plant’s size.
space for its wide, arching leaves. Repot young plants in early spring.
104
EARTH STAR
Cryptanthus bivittatus AGM
TEMPERATURE 16–27ºC (60–80°F)

LIGHT Sun/Filtered sun
HUMIDITY Moderate
FRIENDSHIP PLANT CARE Fairly easy ZEBRA PLANT
Billbergia nutans HEIGHT & SPREAD 15 x 15cm (6 x 6in) Cryptanthus zonatus
PLANT PROFILES
TEMPERATURE 16–27ºC (60–80°F) This dainty bromeliad is grown for TEMPERATURE 16–27ºC (60–80°F)
its wavy, tooth-edged leaves, which
LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade LIGHT Sun/Filtered sun
form a flat star-shaped rosette. Ideal
HUMIDITY High for decorating a sunny windowsill in HUMIDITY Moderate
CARE Fairly easy a small room, the colourful foliage, CARE Fairly easy
HEIGHT & SPREAD 60 x 60cm (2 x 2ft) which can be red, orange, purple, pink, HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 25 x 40cm
or green, makes a sparkling feature. (10 x16in)
Set this bromeliad on a stand or in a
hanging basket so that the graceful Prized for its striped, spidery-looking,
WATERING In spring and summer,
flowers can flow down over the edges. burgundy and cream leaves, the zebra
BROMELIADS
The plant’s pink bracts (petal-like use rain or distilled water to keep the
plant makes a dramatic focal point when
modified leaves) and small pink compost moist, but not wet. In winter,
set alongside other small leafy plants
and purple blooms appear from late keep it just moist. Mist the plant regularly that like similar conditions. Small white
spring to summer among a fountain with tepid rain or distilled water. flowers may appear in summer on
of grey-green strappy leaves. FEEDING Apply a half-strength balanced mature plants.
liquid fertilizer every 2–3 months from
WATERING Use rainwater or distilled spring to late summer. WATERING From spring to early autumn,
water to keep the compost moist. In keep the compost moist with rain or
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in a small
winter, allow the top of the compost distilled water. The compost should
10cm (4in) pot in an equal mix of orchid
to dry out between waterings. Mist be just moist in winter. Mist with tepid
compost, perlite, and coir fibre (or a
daily in summer; reduce to every few rainwater or distilled water every few days.
50:50 mix of orchid and multipurpose
days in winter.
compost). Set in sun or filtered sun, and FEEDING Apply a half-strength balanced
FEEDING In early spring, add a repot every 2–3 years in the spring. liquid fertilizer every 2–3 months from
teaspoon of Epsom salts diluted in spring to late summer.
distilled or rain water to encourage
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in an equal
flowering. Apply a half-strength
mix of orchid compost, perlite, and coir
balanced liquid fertilizer every month
fibre (or a 50:50 mix of orchid and
in spring and summer.
multipurpose compost) in a small
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in an equal 10–12.5cm (4–5in) pot. Set in sun or
mix of orchid compost, perlite, and bright filtered light; the plant may lose its
coir fibre (or a 50:50 mix of orchid and variegations in shady conditions. Repot
multipurpose compost) in a 12.5–15cm zebra plants every 2–3 years in spring.
(5–6in) pot. Repot young plants in early
spring in a container one size larger.
105
SCARLET STAR
Guzmania lingulata
FLAMING
TEMPERATURE 18–27°C (65–80°F) SWORD
LIGHT Filtered sun Vriesea splendens AGM
HUMIDITY High
CARE Challenging
TEMPERATURE
HEIGHT & SPREAD 45 x 45cm
18–26°C (64–79°F)
(18 x 18in)
LIGHT Filtered sun
The eye-catching flower spike of HUMIDITY Moderate
this compact bromeliad shoots CARE Fairly easy
up from the glossy green leaves HEIGHT & SPREAD
like a firework. Its small white 60 x 45cm (24 x 18in)
or yellow blooms are
protected by long-lasting This plant’s dark green and reddish
bright orange or red bracts. brown striped leaves and long-lasting
sword-like flowers make a striking
WATERING Allow the compost to dry out partnership. The scarlet bracts envelop
between waterings, and fill the leafy cup small yellow flowers, and can appear
at any time of year. This is a relatively
in the centre of the plant with distilled or
rainwater, replenishing it every 4–7 days.
BLUSHING easy bromeliad for beginners to try.
Mist the leaves, flowers and aerial roots BROMELIAD
daily with distilled or rainwater. Neoregelia carolinae f. tricolor WATERING Top up the central well
formed by the leaves with rainwater or
FEEDING Apply a half-strength balanced
TEMPERATURE 18–27ºC (65–80ºF) distilled water; replish every 2–3 weeks.
fertilizer to the central cup once a month.
LIGHT Filtered sun Water when the top of the compost feels
Pour this out after 4–5 days and replace
HUMIDITY Moderate to high dry; keep it just moist in winter. Mist every
with rain water. When not in flower, mist
CARE Fairly easy few days with rainwater or distilled water.
the leaves once a month with the same
fertilizer, diluted to one-quarter strength. HEIGHT & SPREAD 30 x 60cm FEEDING Dilute a foliar fertilizer to a
(12 x 24in) quarter strength and use to spray the
PLANTING AND CARE Use an equal
leaves monthly from spring to autumn.
mix of orchid compost, perlite, and coir Like a blushing bride, this plant’s leafy
fibre (or a 50:50 mix of multipurpose rosette of green and yellow striped PLANTING AND CARE Plant in a
and orchid compost) in a 10–12.5cm leaves is suffused with red at the centre. 12.5–15cm (5–6in) pot in an equal
(4–5in) pot. Repot young plants each In summer, violet flowers and bright mix of fine composted bark or orchid
spring in fresh compost. red bracts appear. compost, perlite, and coir fibre
(or a 50:50 mix of orchid and
multipurpose compost). Repot
WATERING Fill the central well formed
young plants into containers one
by the leaves with distilled or rainwater;
size larger in early spring.
replenish every 4–6 weeks. Keep the
compost moist, but not wet, and mist
the leaves every few days.
FEEDING Mist leaves monthly
with a half-strength balanced
liquid fertilizer. Overfeeding reduces
the leaf colour.
10–12.5cm (4–5in) pot using an equal
mix of orchid compost, perlite, and
multipurpose compost). Repot every
year in fresh compost.
106
NATAL LILY
Clivia miniata AGM

LIGHT Filtered sun
HUMIDITY Low to moderate
CARE Fairly easy
(18 x 12in)
WARNING! Bulbs are toxic
Brighten up your home in spring with

the natal lily’s sunny orange, yellow,
or apricot flowers. The clusters of
trumpet-shaped blooms last until
summer, and these pretty woodland
plants will thrive in a cool, bright room.
BULBOUS WATERING Allow the top of the compost

to dry out between waterings from spring
PLANT PROFILES
until autumn. Plants need a rest from late
PLANTS
autumn to midwinter, when the compost
should be kept almost dry.
FEEDING Feed with a half-strength
balanced liquid fertilizer once a month
from spring to early autumn.
PLANTING AND CARE In autumn,
plant in a 50:50 mix of soil-based and
BULBOUS PLANTS
From tropical woodland plants to classic multipurpose composts in a 20cm (8in)

pot, with the neck of the bulbs above the
spring garden favourites, these flowers surface. Plants need a cool rest at 10°C
(50°F) from mid-autumn to late winter,
inject splashes of seasonal colour and
then move to a well-lit room at 16°C
scent into indoor displays. Although bulbs (60°F) to bloom. Do not repot; it flowers
best when cramped, so just replace the
are often associated with spring, many top layer of compost in spring.
bloom at other times of the year – even
in winter – so, with a little planning, you
can enjoy flowers in your home in every
season. Just remember to plant
the bulbs a few months before
you want them to bloom.
107
SIAM TULIP
Curcuma alismatifolia

LIGHT Filtered sun
HUMIDITY Moderate to high
CARE Fairly easy
HEIGHT & SPREAD 60 x 60cm (2 x 2ft)
This beauty from Thailand brings a touch

of the tropics to your home in summer,
when its tulip-shaped pink and violet
flowers appear on tall stems between
dark green leaves. It will thrive in a warm
room with high humidity levels, such
as a bathroom or kitchen.
WATERING From late spring to late

summer, keep the compost moist, and
mist the plant regularly or set on a tray
of damp pebbles. From mid-autumn
AMARYLLIS
Hippeastrum hybrids
to early spring, the plant becomes
LILY OF THE VALLEY dormant (the leaves will die off), and
Convallaria majalis AGM the compost should be almost dry. TEMPERATURE 13–21°C (55–70°F)
LIGHT Filtered sun
FEEDING Feed with a balanced liquid
TEMPERATURE -20–24°C (-4–75°F) HUMIDITY Low
fertilizer every 2 weeks from mid-spring
LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade to late summer. CARE Fairly easy
HUMIDITY Low HEIGHT & SPREAD 60 x 30cm (2 x 1ft)
PLANTING AND CARE In spring, add a WARNING! Bulbs are toxic
CARE Fairly easy layer of gravel to a medium-sized 15cm
HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 25 x 20cm (6in) pot, and top with a layer of bulb Give this striking plant pride of place
(10 x 8in) compost. Then plant the bulbs 7.5cm when its trumpet-shaped flowers appear
WARNING! All parts are toxic (3in) below the compost surface. Place in from winter to spring. Choose from white,
a bright area out of direct sun. Cut off old pink, red, and orange blooms, or varieties
This dainty bulb’s white bell-shaped flower stems and dying leaves in autumn. with bicoloured or patterned petals.
flowers will fill your home with sweet Repot annually in spring in fresh compost.
perfume when they appear in spring.
WATERING Water sparingly from early
The blooms are set off by bright green
winter until the new leaves develop, then
spear-shaped leaves.
keep the compost moist while in bloom.
Do not water when the plant is resting
WATERING Keep the compost moist
from late summer to late autumn.
from late winter to early summer; when
dormant from late summer to early FEEDING After flowering, apply a
winter, allow the compost to dry out. balanced liquid fertilizer until the foliage
dies down in late summer or autumn.
FEEDING Feed monthly with a half-
strength balanced liquid fertilizer from PLANTING AND CARE In late autumn or
late winter to early summer. winter, plant in multipurpose compost in a
pot slightly larger than the bulb, with one-
PLANTING AND CARE Plant the bulbs,
third of the bulb above the surface. Set in
with the roots down, in a deep 15–20cm
a bright, warm spot. Leaves, then flowers,
(6–8in) pot of soil-based compost, so
appear 6–8 weeks later. Move to a cooler
they are just covered. See p199 to force
area when buds appear to prolong the
them to flower indoors. When in bud,
flowering period. In late summer, let the
set in a cool room at 16–21°C (60–70°F)
bulbs dry out, repot, and set in a frost-free
to bloom. After the leaves die down,
shed or garage for 2 months, then bring
plant in shade outside; they need a cold
back indoors and resume watering.
period to reflower.
108
DAFFODIL
HYACINTH Narcissus species
Hyacinthus orientalis
TEMPERATURE -15–20°C (5–68°F)
TEMPERATURE -15–20°C (5–68°F) LIGHT Filtered sun
LIGHT Filtered sun HUMIDITY Low
HUMIDITY Low CARE Easy
CARE Fairly easy HEIGHT & SPREAD 40 x 10cm
HEIGHT & SPREAD 25 x 20cm (16 x 4in)
(10 x 8in) WARNING! All parts are toxic
WARNING! All parts are toxic
The most popular daffodil for indoor
The intense perfume and rich colours gardens is the tender, scented
of this classic spring-flowering bulb paperwhite, but other hardy
make it a favourite for indoor displays. Narcissus, such as the perfumed
Plant prepared hyacinth bulbs in Tazetta varieties or popular
autumn to enjoy the spikes of blue, ‘Tête-à-tête’, also flower
purple, white, pink, or red blooms well inside. Plant the bulbs
when they open a few months later. in autumn for spring flowers.
PLANT PROFILES
WATERING After planting the bulbs, WATERING Water bulbs after planting,
water the compost and leave to drain. and keep the compost just moist
Keep just moist throughout winter, and GRAPE HYACINTH through winter. Water every few days
then consistently moist when the shoots Muscari species when the shoots and flowers appear.
and flowers appear.
FEEDING Apply a balanced liquid
FEEDING Apply a liquid seaweed feed TEMPERATURE -15–20°C (5–68°F) fertilizer every 2 weeks after flowering,
every 2 weeks when the leaves are dying LIGHT Filtered sun while the leaves are dying down.
down, if you want to keep the bulbs. HUMIDITY Low
PLANTING AND CARE Add a layer
CARE Fairly easy
BULBOUS PLANTS
PLANTING AND CARE Plant bulbs of gravel to the bottom of a wide pot,
in pots of bulb fibre (or a 2:1 mix of HEIGHT & SPREAD 20 x 10cm (8 x 4in) and top up with bulb fibre (or a 2:1 mix
soil-based compost and sharp grit) in of soil-based compost and sharp grit).
early autumn, with the pointed ends This easy-to-grow bulb is a top choice Plant bulbs, with the pointed ends up
for spring colour, with its dainty little
up and just showing above the surface. and the tips just below the surface. Set in
cones of lightly fragrant blue, purple,
Leave outside on a balcony, or in the or white flowers and grassy foliage. an unheated room on a sunny windowsill.
garden until ready to flower in mid- These bulbs can be forced for early-
spring. To force bulbs, see pp198–99. season displays indoors.
WATERING Water bulbs after planting,

and keep the compost almost dry in
winter. The compost should be moist
when the shoots and flowers appear.
fertilizer every 2 weeks after flowering,
while the leaves are dying down.
PLANTING AND CARE Fill a pot at
least 15cm (6in) wide and deep with
multipurpose compost. Plant the bulbs,
pointed ends up, close together but not
touching, and leave the tips just exposed.
Set outside on a balcony or in a sheltered
area until ready to flower, or force the
bulbs for earlier display (see pp198–99).
After blooming, set outside in shade;
they will then reflower the following year.
109
CALLA LILY
Zantedeschia species

LIGHT Filtered sun
HUMIDITY Moderate
CARE Fairly easy
HEIGHT & SPREAD up to 60 x 60cm
(2 x 2ft)
While the white arum lily (Zantedeschia

aethiopica) is best grown outdoors, the
smaller, often more colourful calla lilies,
such as Z. elliottiana and Z. rehmannii,
make beautiful house plants. They
feature plain or spotted leaves and the
flowers, which comprise yellow, pink,
purple, dark red, or black spathes (petal-
like sheathes) around a spike of tiny
flowers, appear from spring to autumn.

from late spring to late summer; the
compost should be almost dry in winter.
fertilizer every 2 weeks from spring
until the flowers have faded.
PLANTING AND CARE In late winter,
plant in a wide pot in multipurpose
compost, with the rhizomes (large, oval
bulbs) just showing above the surface,
FALSE SHAMROCK and the eyes (dark bumps) uppermost.
Oxalis triangularis Set in a warm spot in filtered sun. Leave
foliage to die down in autumn. Repot
TEMPERATURE 15–21°C (60–70°F) becomes dormant and the foliage starts in winter, and store in a cool place.
LIGHT Light shade to die off, refrain from watering. The
HUMIDITY Low plant may look dead, but if you then
CARE Easy start watering again after 4–6 weeks,
HEIGHT & SPREAD 30 x 30cm new leafy growth will soon reappear.
(12 x 12in) FEEDING Apply a balanced liquid
WARNING! All parts are toxic to pets fertilizer every month when the plant
is in growth from spring to late summer.
The green, purple, or variegated leaves Stop feeding during dormancy.
of this highly decorative plant resemble
those of shamrock. The triangular leaves PLANTING AND CARE Plant the bulbs
also perform a party trick, folding up at in autumn in a 15–20cm (6–8in) pot
night and opening during the day. In in an equal mix of soil-based compost,
addition to the foliage, sprays of small multipurpose compost, and horticultural
pink or white starry flowers appear over grit. The bulbs should be 5cm (2in) below
many weeks from spring to summer. the soil surface. False shamrock is also
frequently sold in leaf as a pot plant.
WATERING Allow the top of the compost Set in a lightly shaded spot, out of direct
to dry out between waterings. From sun, from spring to autumn, and then
autumn to winter, when the plant move to a cool room in winter.
110
ORCHIDS
PLANT PROFILES
Prized for their exotic flowers, orchids

come in a vast range of shapes and
colours, and some also have scented
ORCHIDS
blooms. The stars of any show, use one

as a focal point in a bright room, or
recreate their natural inclination to cling
to trees by growing those with aerial roots
on bark or a log (see pp88–91). While
some of these divas demand lots of
attention, others – most notably the widely
available moth orchids (Phalaenopsis) – will
thrive without too much fuss.
111
SPIDER ORCHID CYMBIDIUM

Brassia species Cymbidium species and hybrids
TEMPERATURE 12–24°C (55–75°F) TEMPERATURE 10–24°C (50–75°F) drain away. Reduce watering to once
LIGHT Filtered sun LIGHT Filtered sun every 2 weeks in winter. Place on a tray
HUMIDITY High HUMIDITY Moderate of damp pebbles or mist every few days.
CARE Fairly easy CARE Fairly easy FEEDING Apply a half-strength general
HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 1 x 1m HEIGHT & SPREAD 60 x 60cm (2 x 2ft) liquid fertilizer with every third watering
(3 x 3ft) for miniatures, and 1.2 x 0.75m in spring, then switch to a specialist
(4 x 21⁄2ft) for standards orchid fertilizer throughout summer.
Like colourful spiders crawling along
arching stems, the unusual blooms of PLANTING AND CARE Plant in a
This free-flowering orchid will brighten
this orchid comprise long, thin, yellow up your home from late autumn to 15–20cm (6–8in) opaque pot in specialist
or green petals, with brown or maroon spring, when few other plants are at orchid compost (or a 6:1:1 mix of
stripes or spots, attached to a rounded their best. The stems of large blooms composted bark, perlite, and charcoal).
central lip. The spidery flowers also have emerge from between strap-shaped This ground-dwelling orchid does not
a delicious spicy scent and appear in green leaves, creating an explosion have aerial roots, and does not need a
late spring and summer, while the of colour. The named hybrids are easier clear pot. Stand in filtered sunlight all
pseudobulbs (swellings at the base of than the species, and there are two year, out of direct summer sun. Ideally,
the stems) each produce two or three types to choose from: large “standards” set it on a part shaded patio outdoors
long, strap-shaped green leaves. that can grow up to 1.2m (4ft), and the in summer and early autumn (before the
smaller, more popular, “miniatures”, frosts), when plants need a distinct drop
WATERING Allow the top of the compost which are ideal for a windowsill. between day and night temperatures to
to dry out between waterings in spring
form flower buds. In late autumn, keep in
and summer. Partly submerge the pot
WATERING In spring and summer, a cool room, ideally below 15°C (59°F);
in a tray of rainwater or distilled water for
allow the top of the compost to dry bring into a slightly warmer room to
half an hour, then leave to drain. In winter,
out between waterings, and water flower. Repot every year or two in spring.
the plant needs a rest and should be kept
from above with rainwater or distilled
drier, watering just enough to prevent
water, making sure that any excess can
the pseudobulbs from shrinking. Mist the
leaves daily from spring to late summer,
and stand the pot on a tray of damp
pebbles, or install a room humidifer.
FEEDING Apply a specialist orchid
fertilizer with every other watering from
midspring, when new growth emerges,
to late summer.
PLANTING AND CARE Plant the spider
orchid in a 10–20cm (4–8in) clear pot in
specialist orchid compost (or a 6:1:1 mix
of composted bark, perlite, and charcoal).
Do not cover the aerial roots, which
should be left exposed to the light. Set
in a bright position, out of direct summer
sun and away from draughts, and provide
good ventilation. Cut the flower spike
down to just above the first node (bump
on stem) after blooming. The orchid likes
to be cramped, so only repot when
growth starts to suffer.
Cymbidium hybrid Cymbidium miniature
Named hybrids are the most widely Miniature cymbidiums are compact
available and easy to care for. Choose hybrids, ranging in height from 30 to
from the huge range of flower colours, 60cm (12–24in). Like all cymbidiums,
many with patterned or spotted petals. they need a cool room to flower well.
112
NOBILE DENDROBIUM PANSY ORCHID

Dendrobium nobile hybrids Miltoniopsis hybrids
TEMPERATURE 5–24°C (40°–75°F) the base of the plant) from shrivelling. TEMPERATURE 12–27°C (54–80°F)
LIGHT Filtered sun Set on a tray of damp pebbles from early LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade
HUMIDITY Moderate to high spring to late summer. HUMIDITY High
CARE Challenging CARE Fairly easy
HEIGHT & SPREAD 60 x 45cm liquid feed every 2–3 weeks from spring HEIGHT & SPREAD 60 x 60cm (2 x 2ft)
(24 x 18in) to summer. In late summer, change to a
Often labelled as Miltonia (hybrids
half-strength high potash fertilizer for one
Upright cane-like stems of scented of Miltoniopsis), this compact orchid
month, then discontinue feeding until the
flowers appear from autumn to early produces large, fragrant blooms with
following spring. distinctive pansy-like markings on the
spring on this flamboyant orchid.
Those with pink or white flowers are PLANTING AND CARE Plant this orchid face, hence its common name. The
the most popular, but they come in a in a 15–20cm (6–8in) clear pot in specialist flowers can appear in spring or autumn,
wide range of colours. Be prepared to orchid compost (or a 6:1:1 mix of depending on the hybrid.
pamper it, and do not worry if the plant composted bark, perlite, and charcoal).
loses some leaves in winter, as it is a Grow in a bright spot, out of direct WATERING In the summer, apply
semi-deciduous.
summer sun, and away from draughts. rainwater or distilled water every day or
To bloom, this dendrobium needs two from above, giving the plant a good
PLANT PROFILES
WATERING From spring to late a distinct difference between day and soaking, and then leaving it to drain. In
summer, water once or twice a week night temperatures, and it is best grown winter, reduce watering to once every
in the morning using tepid rainwater outside in semi-shade from summer to 2–3 weeks. Set on a tray of damp pebbles
or distilled water (see Brassia watering early autumn (before the frosts). In winter and mist every few days.
method on p110). Reduce watering when blooming, keep it in an unheated
FEEDING Apply a specialist orchid
to every 2 weeks in early autumn to room with a night-time temperature
fertilizer every 2 weeks, but flush the
stimulate flower buds to form; in winter, of about 10°C (50°F) or slightly lower.
plant with plenty of rainwater or distilled
do not water but mist occasionally to Repot every year in spring.
water once a month to prevent a build-up
prevent the pseudobulbs (swellings at
of salts.
ORCHIDS
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in a

15–20cm (6–8in) clear pot in specialist
orchid compost (or a 6:1:1 mix of
composted bark, perlite, and charcoal).
The pansy orchid will be happy in light
shade in summer; move closer to the
window in winter. Avoid direct sun and
draughts, and repot annually in spring.
Dendrobium nobile ‘Star Class Akatsuki’ Dendrobium nobile ‘Star Class Apollon’
This brighly coloured orchid produces One of the popular clear white forms
spikes of dazzling fuchsia-pink flowers of nobile dendrobium, it forms tall
with white and yellow centres. spikes of small, long-lasting blooms.
113
NELLY ISLER
× Oncidopsis Nelly Isler gx
TEMPERATURE 16–24°C (60–75°F) for Brassia on p110). In winter, reduce

LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade watering slightly. Set on a tray of damp
HUMIDITY High pebbles and mist every day or two.
CARE Challenging
HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 50 x 50cm FEEDING Apply a half-strength orchid
(20 x 20in) fertilizer every 2 weeks year round.
This orchid hybrid is prized for its tall PLANTING AND CARE Grow in a
stems of bright red flowers with white 15–20cm (6–8in) clear pot in specialist
spotted lips and a yellow eye. Blooms
orchid compost. Stand out of direct sun,
appear at any time of year, but most
in temperatures of 16–24°C (60–75°F).
flower in autumn, and they have
an intense lemony fragrance. After flowering, trim the stems to just
above the lowest node (bump on stem)
WATERING Using rainwater or distilled to encourage a second flush. Repot
water, apply when the top of the compost every year or two in spring.
is slightly dry (see watering method
BUTTERFLY ORCHID
Oncidium hybrids

LIGHT Filtered sun
HUMIDITY Moderate
CARE Fairly easy
HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 60 x 60cm
(2 x 2ft)
The stems of this dainty orchid hold

dozens of small flowers that look like
butterflies or dancing ladies, creating
a spectacular effect, usually in autumn.
The hybrids are relatively easy, and can
be mounted on bark or slate.
WATERING Apply rainwater or distilled

water when the top of the compost is
slightly dry. In winter, water just once a
month. Set on a tray of damp pebbles,
and mist every day or two.
FEEDING Apply specialist orchid fertilizer,
diluted to a quarter strength, with every
second or third watering.
PLANTING AND CARE Grow on bark,
or in a 12.5–15cm (5–6in) opaque pot in
specialist orchid compost. It likes to be
cramped, so repot only when the pot
becomes too small for the new growth.
114
SLIPPER ORCHID MOTH ORCHID

Paphiopedilum ‘Maudiae Femma’ Phalaenopsis hybrids
TEMPERATURE 17–25°C (63–77°F) TEMPERATURE 16–27°C (61–80°F)

LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade
HUMIDITY Moderate HUMIDITY Moderate
CARE Fairly easy CARE Easy
HEIGHT & SPREAD 30 x 20cm HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 90 x 60cm
(12 x 8in) (3 x 2ft)
This orchid has great allure, and One of the most widely available and
features large showy flowers in a wide easiest orchids to grow, the moth orchid
range of colours, with a distinctive produces long arching stems topped
slipper-like pouch that gives rise to its with large round blooms in a huge range
common name. The blooms generally of colours, some with delicate patterning.
appear for many weeks from winter to The flowers can appear at any time of the
early summer, although some hybrids year. There are also miniature hybrids for
flower at other times too. The long small spaces and all types are happy in
green or mottled leaves form a fan high daytime winter temperatures and
shape, and provide interest while the will grow well in a centrally heated home.
PLANT PROFILES
plant is not in flower. Named hybrids

are easier than the species to look after. WATERING Keep the compost moist
at all times and apply water every
WATERING Using rainwater or distilled 5–7 days in the morning (ideally use
water, keep the compost moist from rainwater or distilled water in hard
spring to autumn, applying water once water areas). Reduce watering slightly in
or twice a week (see Brassia watering winter but do not let the compost dry out
method on p110). Reduce watering in
winter but do not let the compost dry
out completely. Set on a tray of damp
ORCHIDS
pebbles to raise humidity levels, but

do not mist, as this may lead to rotting.
FEEDING Apply specialist orchid
fertilizer every 2–3 weeks from spring
to autumn; in winter apply it at half
strength at the same frequency.
PLANTING AND
CARE Grow the
slipper orchid in a
15–20cm (5–8in) opaque
pot in specialist orchid
compost (or a 4:1 mix of
finely composted bark and
perlite). This ground-dwelling
orchid does not need a clear pot,
as it produces no aerial roots. Grow
in light shade in summer, out of direct
sun, and in full light in winter. The plain
green-leaved like orchids like cool
conditions; the more widely available
Phalaenopsis hybrid
mottle-leaved types need warmth, with
a minimum of 17°C (64°F) at night.
Repot annually after flowering in a Many orchids are not named when you
slightly larger container, making sure buy them, but the most widely available
new growth is not buried. will be easy-care hybrids. Simply choose
colours to suit your scheme, and team
up matching hues.
115
VANDA ORCHID CAMBRIA ORCHID

Vanda hybrids × Vuylstekeara Cambria gx ‘Plush’
completely. Set on a tray of damp

pebbles; mist plants occasionally in TEMPERATURE 16–32°C (61–90°F) TEMPERATURE 10–24°C (50–75°F)
the morning, which allows excess water LIGHT Filtered sun LIGHT Filtered sun
to dry before the colder nights. HUMIDITY High HUMIDITY High
FEEDING Apply a specialist orchid CARE Challenging CARE Challenging
fertilizer with each watering, but flush HEIGHT & SPREAD 1.2 x 0.6m (4 x 2ft) HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 50 x 35cm
through the plant with plain water and no (20 x 14in)
fertilizer once a month to remove excess This tropical orchid is demanding,
but its large colourful blooms, often While this beautiful hybrid orchid is not
salts. Reduce feeding to once a month
patterned and up to 15cm (6in) in widely available, it is worth seeking out if
in winter. diameter, make the effort worthwhile you like a challenge. The rewards for your
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in a when they appear in spring and efforts are tall arched stems of large, dark
10–15cm (4–6in) clear pot in specialist summer. Vandas need very high levels red, fragrant flowers, with white spotted
orchid compost (or a 6:1:1 mix of of humidity, and they are commonly lips and a yellow eye. The long-lasting
composted bark, perlite, and charcoal). grown in a vase or an open wire basket blooms appear at any time of year, but
without compost. mostly in winter or spring.
Do not bury the aerial roots, which
need to be exposed. Set in light shade
in summer; bring closer to a bright WATERING Water every morning WATERING Apply rainwater or distilled
window in winter. Avoid draughts and by plunging the roots into a bucket of water when the top of the compost is
major temperature fluctuations; these tepid rainwater or distilled water for slightly dry (use the method described
orchids prefer warmth year-round. 15 minutes until the roots go green, for Brassia on p110) and water every
After flowering, cut the stem just then drain; reduce to every 3–4 days in 5–7 days from spring to autumn, and
above the lowest node (bump on stem) winter. Vandas demand high humidity every 7–10 days in winter. Set on a tray of
to encourage a second flush. Repot and should be misted a few times a damp pebbles and mist the leaves every
every 2 years in a slightly larger container. day; alternatively, install a humidifier. day or two, or install a room humidifier.
FEEDING Mist the leaves and roots once FEEDING Apply a half-strength orchid
a week with a ready mixed orchid fertilizer fertilizer with every second or third
spray. Feed every 2 months in winter. watering year round.
PLANTING AND CARE Grow in a slatted PLANTING
basket or in a large clear vase with no AND CARE
potting compost. Set in a bright spot, Grow in a
out of direct summer sun, but in good 10–20cm (4–8in)
light in winter. A heated, well-ventilated clear pot in specialist
conservatory or bathroom is ideal. orchid compost. To
Lower night-time temperatures in autumn promote flowering,
encourage flower buds to form. To repot, make sure there is a
soak the roots and gently pull them away 6°C (10°F) drop in
from sides of the basket, then place the temperature at night.
plant in its small After flowering, trim back
basket into a the stems to just above the
larger basket; lowest node (bump on stem)
the roots will to encourage a second
then grow flush of blooms. Repot
on without only when the
disturbance. pseudobulbs
(swellings at the
base of the stems)
Phalaenopsis So Petit range fill the container
completely.
This group of miniature hyrbid moth

orchids comes in a range of colours,
including pink, peach, and white, and
they fit neatly onto a windowsill.
116
FLOWERING MAPLE
Abutilon × hybridum

LIGHT Filtered sun
HUMIDITY Low
CARE Fairly easy
(36 x 24in)
Dress up your home with this tall shrub’s

large bell-shaped flowers, which come
in a variety of colours, including red,
yellow, pink, and white. The maple-like
green or variegated foliage provides
a foil for long-lasting summer blooms.
OTHER
from spring to autumn; in winter, allow
the top of the compost to dry out
PLANT PROFILES
between waterings.
FLOWERING FEEDING Apply a balanced liquid

fertilizer every 2 weeks between spring
and autumn, replacing it in summer with
PLANTS
a high-potash feed.
PLANTING AND CARE Grow in an equal
mix of multipurpose and soil-based
composts in a 20–30cm (8–12in) pot. Set
OTHER FLOWERING PLANTS
in a bright position, and move in winter to

a cooler room with daytime temperatures
of 16–20°C (61–68°F). Trim back stems
and pinch out the tips in spring to create
While many house plants produce flowers, a bushier, compact plant. Prune again in
autumn if necessary. Repot every 2 years.
some are grown specifically for their
beautiful blooms, and can be used to inject
seasonal colour into a green leafy display.
This selection includes plants that bloom at
different times of the year, and some that
even flower in the depths of winter.
117
TAIL FLOWER ANGEL’S TRUMPET

Anthurium andraeanum AGM Brugmansia × candida

LIGHT Filtered sun LIGHT Sun/Filtered sun
CARE Fairly easy CARE Fairly easy
HEIGHT & SPREAD 45 x 30cm HEIGHT & SPREAD 1.2 x 1m
(18 x 12in) (4 x 3ft)
This top-performing house plant
sports dramatic, arrow-shaped, dark The knock-out evening fragrance and
green leaves, and elegant waxy flowers large, showy, trumpet-shaped flowers
which appear throughout the year. It is of this tall plant make it a favourite
best displayed in simple, modern pot, for a conservatory or big, bright room.
and the blooms, which come in white, The blooms come in yellow, pink, white,
red, pink, and a fashionable dark or red, but the plant has one major vice
burgundy, are made up of a tear- – all parts are poisonous, so it is not a
shaped spathe (leaf-like sheath) and good choice for those with children or
a long spadix (spike of tiny flowers). pets. You may also see it sold as Datura.
As well as its stylish good looks and
obvious charm, the tail flower, or
flamingo flower as it is sometimes WATERING Keep the compost moist
known, is also quite easy to grow. from spring to early autumn; reduce
watering so that the compost is just moist
Anthurium andraeanum – white form in winter when temperatures are lower.
throughout the year; avoid waterlogging, FEEDING Apply a balanced liquid
which may rot the roots. Mist every few Most tail flower species produce bright fertilizer every month in spring; switch
days, or set on a tray of damp pebbles. red flowers, but the cooler, sophisticated to a high-potash feed in summer.
white forms are also very popuar and
FEEDING Feed every 2 weeks from widely available. PLANTING AND CARE Grow in a
spring to summer with a half-strength, 20–30cm (8–12in) pot in soil-based
high-potash liquid fertilizer. compost. Set in a sunny spot and a cool
room in winter. Wearing gloves, trim the
PLANTING AND CARE Plant with the top
stems after flowering to keep it compact,
of the root ball just above the soil surface
but do not prune too hard or you may
in a 12.5–20cm (5–8in) pot and an equal
lose the flowers. Repot every 2–3 years.
mix of multipurpose and soil-based
composts. Cover the root ball with moss
to prevent it drying out. Stand in bright
filtered light and keep at 20–24°C
(68–75°F) all year round. Repot only
when plant has become root-bound.
Anthurium andraeanum ‘Black Queen’
The fashion for dark blooms has led

breeders to produce flowers in a range
of sultry single shades, from burgundy
to near black, and moody bicolours.
118
PERSIAN VIOLET
Exacum affine AGM

LIGHT Filtered sun
CARE Fairly easy
This plant may only perform for a few

months, but its fragrant, violet-blue
flowers with yellow centres, which
appear over many weeks above a CAPE JASMINE
mound of glossy green leaves, make Gardenia jasminoides AGM
it well worth growing. It is a biennial,
which means it produces leaves in the TEMPERATURE 16–24°C (61–75°F)
PRAIRIE GENTIAN first year, and blooms in the second, but
PLANT PROFILES
Eustoma grandiflorum
LIGHT Filtered sun
those you buy will flower the same year.
HUMIDITY High
CARE Fairly easy
TEMPERATURE 12–24°C (54–75°F) WATERING Keep the compost moist – HEIGHT & SPREAD 60 x 60cm (2 x 2ft)
LIGHT Sun/Filtered sun the flowers fade quickly if the roots are WARNING! All parts are toxic to pets
HUMIDITY Low dry. Mist with tepid water every day or
CARE Fairly easy two, or set on a tray of damp pebbles. This shrub’s main appeal is its large,
HEIGHT & SPREAD 30 x 45cm round, sweetly scented white flowers,
FEEDING Feed every 2 weeks from
(12 x 18in) which appear in summer and autumn
spring to late summer with a half-strength
against a backdrop of glossy, dark green
balanced liquid fertilizer. leaves. It can grow into a large plant

The cup-shaped blooms of this pretty
annual are often used in floristry, but PLANTING AND CARE You will probably in warm, frost-free climes but rarely
the plant can also be grown as a house not need to repot the plants, but if yours reaches more than 60cm (2ft) tall when
plant, adding temporary colour to a is root-bound (see pp192–93), transfer it grown indoors in a pot.
mixed display in spring and summer. to a slightly larger pot of multipurpose
The flower are available in a wide compost. Try growing it from seed in WATERING From spring to autumn,
range of colours, including purple, winter or early spring (see pp208–09). water with tepid distilled or rainwater,
pink, white, and bicolours. Look out for keeping the compost moist. In winter,
compact varieties, which are sometimes
allow the top of the compost to dry
sold as garden bedding plants.
out between waterings. Mist the leaves
(not the flowers) regularly, or stand on
WATERING Keep the soil moist a tray of damp pebbles.
from spring to autumn, but
avoid overwatering.
apply a half-strength fertilizer designed
FEEDING Apply a high-potash fertilizer for acid-loving plants every 2 weeks.
every 2 weeks from spring to autumn.
PLANTING AND CARE Grow cape
PLANTING AND CARE Plant prairie jasmine in a 20–30cm (8–12in) pot in
gentian in a container about 15–20cm ericaceous compost. Place in a bright
(6–8in) wide in multipurpose compost. spot, out of direct sun and draughts.
Young plants bought in spring will To prevent the buds failing, it needs
grow rapidly if set in a sunny position, temperatures of 21–24°C (70–75°F)
protected from strong midday sun in by day and 15–18°C (59–65°F) at night
summer. Pinch out the tips of the stems in summer. In winter, move to a sunny
in spring to create a bushier plant with window. Repot every 2–3 years in spring.
more flowers, and deadhead faded
blooms regularly. Buy new plants
each year.
119
AFRICAN DAISY
Gerbera jamesonii
TEMPERATURE 13–24°C (55–75°F) WATERING Keep the compost moist, but

LIGHT Sun/Filtered sun not wet, from spring to summer. Reduce
HUMIDITY Low to moderate watering in winter, allowing the top of the
CARE Fairly easy compost to dry out between waterings.
HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 60 x 60cm FEEDING Feed every 2 weeks from
(2 x 2ft) spring to late summer with a balanced
liquid fertilizer.
Often used in floral bouquets,
African daisies make a statement PLANTING AND CARE Plant in a
with their tall flower stems topped 12.5–15cm (5–6in) pot in an equal mix of
by colourful daisy-like blooms and multipurpose and soil-based composts.
triangular, slightly lobed, bright green Set in a bright, cool, well-ventilated area,
leaves. Flowers appear mainly in out of midday sun in summer. If night-
summer, but given a warm home time temperatures do not drop below
and enough light, they can bloom 10°C (50°F), gerberas will often flower
intermittently all year round. all year round. Repot when root-bound.
ROSE OF CHINA
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis

HUMIDITY Moderate
CARE Easy
HEIGHT & SPREAD 1 x 2m (3 x 6ft)
Large, trumpet-shaped flowers and lush

green foliage create a colourful show in
summer, when this vase-shaped shrub
is at its best. In warm rooms with good
light, flowers may open at other times
of the year too. The blooms come in a
range of colours, including white, red,
yellow, or orange, most with a dark red
throat in the centre of each bloom.

from spring to autumn; allow the top
to dry out between waterings in winter.
Mist regularly or stand on a tray of
damp pebbles.
FEEDING Apply a balanced liquid feed
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in a large
20–25cm (8–10in) pot in house plant
compost (or an equal mix of soil-based
and multipurpose composts). Place
in bright light, but out of direct sun in
summer, and away from draughts. Prune
hard in spring to keep plants compact.
Replace the top layer of compost each
spring, and repot every 2–3 years.
120
BUSY LIZZIE
Impatiens ‘New Guinea’ hybrids
TEMPERATURE 16–24 (60–75°F)

HUMIDITY Moderate
CARE Easy
Dark green or bronze-tinged foliage

and a profusion of round flowers in
shades of pink, lilac, red, white, or
orange, make a beautiful combination
in this exotic form of the more common
busy lizzie. It can be grown outside in
summer, but also makes a good house
MOP-HEAD plant, injecting splashes of bright colour
from late spring to autumn. SHRIMP PLANT
HYDRANGEA Justicia brandegeeana AGM
PLANT PROFILES
Hydrangea macrophylla
from spring to autumn; allow the top TEMPERATURE 15–25°C (60–77°F)
TEMPERATURE -10–21°C (14–70°F) of the compost to dry out between LIGHT Sun/Filtered sun
LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade waterings in winter. HUMIDITY Low
HUMIDITY Moderate CARE Easy
CARE Fairly easy FEEDING Apply a high-potash fertilizer
every 2 weeks from spring to autumn. HEIGHT & SPREAD 60 x 60cm
HEIGHT & SPREAD 1 x 1m (3 x 3ft) (2 x 2ft)
WARNING! All parts are toxic PLANTING AND CARE Plant in a
medium-sized 12.5–15cm (5–6in) pot This unusual Mexican houseplant makes
Although this large shrub will not be in multipurpose compost; these plants an intriguing talking point, with its coral
happy long-term indoors, it will make like cramped conditions so do not and yellow flowers that resemble little
a beautiful house plant for a couple choose an overly large container. Set shrimps, hence the name. The blooms
of years, brightening up a dull interior in a bright position out of direct sunlight, comprise small white flowers wrapped
with its apple-green deciduous leaves, in colourful bracts (modified petal-like
and deadhead the flowers regularly to
and large flowerheads in summer. leaves), and appear throughout the year
prolong the blooming period. Take stem
cuttings in autumn, or sow seed or buy between the spear-shaped leaves.
new plants each spring.
from spring to autumn; use rainwater
WATERING Ensure the compost is moist
or distilled water for blue varieties.
in spring and summer; in winter, allow the
Keep the compost just moist in winter.
compost to dry out between waterings.
FEEDING In spring and summer,
FEEDING Feed every 2 weeks from
mid-spring to early autumn with
fertilizer every 2 weeks.
a balanced liquid fertilizer.
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in
20–25cm (8–10in) pot in ericaceous
a medium-sized 15–20cm (6–8in)
compost if you have a blue variety,
pot in soil-based compost. Set in
or soil-based compost for other
a bright position, but protect
colours. Place in bright filtered
from the midday sun in summer.
light in a cool room or hallway.
This plant benefits from a hard
Move to a shed or garage over
prune every spring, which keeps
winter; bring indoors again in
it compact and creates a bushier
spring. Prune stems lightly in
habit. Repot every 2–3 years in spring
early spring. After a year or two,
when root-bound.
plant in the garden or in a large
patio pot outside.
121
YELLOW SAGE
Lantana camara
TEMPERATURE 10–25°C
(50–77°F)
LIGHT Sun/Filtered light
HUMIDITY Low
CARE Fairly easy
HEIGHT & SPREAD
Up to 1 x 1m (3 x 3ft) in a pot
Small round clusters of flowers adorn

this potentially large shrub from spring
to late autumn. It may remind you of
holidays in the Mediterranean or
California, where it is often grown
in pots outside. The flowers come
in a range of colours, including
pink, red, yellow, and cream.
Large plants can be trained into
standards to keep them compact
or you can buy a dwarf variety.

in the growing season from spring to
autumn, and only just moist in winter.
FEEDING Feed monthly from spring to
autumn with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
PLANTING AND CARE Grow in a large
20–30cm (8–12in) pot in 3:1 mix of ROSE GRAPE
soil-based compost and grit, and set Medinilla magnifica AGM
in full sun. Prune the stems in winter
if plants have outgrown their space,
and repot root-bound plants every TEMPERATURE 17–25°C (63–77°F) WATERING Water sparingly from below
2–3 years. Plants can also be grown LIGHT Filtered sun by placing the pot in a tray of tepid
from seed (see pp208–09). HUMIDITY Moderate to high rainwater or distilled water for 20 minutes,
CARE Challenging then lifting it out to drain. Allow the top of
HEIGHT & SPREAD up to 1.2 x 1m the compost to dry out between waterings,
(4 x 3ft) and reduce watering in winter after
blooming until new flower stems appear
Native to the tropical forests of in early spring. Mist the plant every day
the Philippines, this spectacular or two, or set on a tray of damp pebbles.
plant will create a dazzling display
when it flowers in summer. Long FEEDING Apply a half-strength,
arching stems hold large pendent high-potash liquid feed every 2 weeks
blooms made up of pink bracts from spring to late summer.
and small, violet flowers and
seeds. The wide-spreading, PLANTING AND CARE Plant the rose
dark green, oval-shaped leaves grape in a 20–25cm (8–10in) pot in orchid
with bold vein patterns add further compost, and place in a bright area, out
interest. It is best grown in a tall pot of direct sun. In winter, bring it closer to a
or on a stand, so that the flowers can sunny window. Remove the flower stems
flow over the sides. after blooming. Repot every 2–3 years.
122
GERANIUM POMEGRANATE
Pelargonium species and hybrids Punica granatum
TEMPERATURE 7–25°C (45–77°F) TEMPERATURE -5–25°C (23–77°F)

LIGHT Sun/Filtered sun LIGHT Sun/Filtered sun
HUMIDITY Low HUMIDITY Low
CARE Easy CARE Fairly easy
HEIGHT & SPREAD up to 40 x 25cm HEIGHT & SPREAD 2 x 2m (6 x 6ft)
(16 x 10in)
Pomegranates can grow into large
While geraniums are often grown shrubs outside in mild areas, but their
in pots in the garden in summer, some size will be restricted when grown in a
varieties also make pretty house plants, pot indoors. They produce deciduous,
and will flower for longer indoors. Look oval-shaped green leaves, bronze when
out for regal Pelargoniums, with their young, and funnel-shaped red flowers in
clusters of large blooms, and zonal late summer, followed by edible round
Pelargoniums, which have dark ringed fruits. The dwarf form, P. granatum var.
leaf marks. Scented-leaved geraniums nana, is a good choice for small spaces,
with smaller blooms are also prized, but its fruits are not edible.
and release a lemon, mint, or rose
PLANT PROFILES
fragrance when the foliage is touched.
WATERING Allow the top of the

compost to dry out between waterings FLORIST’S CINERARIA
from spring to summer, ensuring you do Pericallis × hybrida Senetti Series
not wet the leaves or flowers. In winter,
keep the compost almost dry.
FEEDING Apply a balanced liquid LIGHT Filtered sun
fertilizer every 2 weeks in spring, and HUMIDITY Low
then switch to a high potash fertilizer, CARE Easy

such as tomato feed, in summer. HEIGHT & SPREAD 40 x 25cm
PLANTING AND CARE Plant geraniums (14 x 10in)
in a 12.5–20cm (5–8in) pot in either
multipurpose or soil-based compost Producing a blaze of colour with their
bright magenta-pink, blue, violet, or
with some added grit. Set in a light area,
bicoloured daisy-like flowers, florist’s
out of midday summer sun, with good
cineraria are hard to beat for spring
ventilation. Cut back stems in early to summer impact. The blooms appear
spring before growth resumes. Repot above triangular, wavy-edged green
annually in fresh compost and a slightly foliage, and these cool-season annuals
larger pot. will also reflower later in the year if cut
back in early summer.
WATERING Ensure the compost is moist

but never wet, which may rot the roots.
FEEDING Feed monthly with a balanced
liquid fertilizer from spring to autumn.
PLANTING AND CARE Plant cineraria
in a medium-sized 15cm (6in) pot in
multipurpose compost, and set in a cool,
bright room, away from radiators and
heaters. After the flowers have faded,
trim the stems back to 10–15cm (4–6in)
above the compost to encourage a
second flush later in the year. Buy new
plants each year.
123
AFRICAN VIOLET
Saintpaulia cultivars
WATERING Keep the compost moist TEMPERATURE 16–24°C

from spring to autumn; allow the top (61–75°F)
of the compost to dry out between LIGHT Filtered sun
waterings through winter. HUMIDITY Moderate
FEEDING Apply a balanced liquid CARE Fairly easy
fertilizer once a month from spring to HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to
summer, then switch to a high-potash 7.5 x 20cm (4 x 8in)
fertilizer when the flower buds appear.
This classic house plant used to be
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in a large found in almost every home, and it
20–30cm (8–12in) pot in a 3:1 mix of is now enjoying a renewed popularity.
soil-based compost and grit. In spring, The small round flowers come in a wide
set in a sunny room, but move to a cooler variety of colours, including pink, red,
spot in winter after it has lost its leaves. purple, and white, and the petals may
Fruits will only ripen if temperatures are also be ruffled or frilly. African violets
at least 13–16°C (55–60°F). Prune in bloom throughout the year, the flowers
spring, and repot every 2–3 years. appearing above soft round dark green
leaves, which can be maroon beneath.
INDIAN AZALEA
Rhododendron simsii
WATERING Water from below by
placing the pot in a shallow tray of water
TEMPERATURE 10–24°C (50º–75°F) for about 20 minutes, then leaving it to
LIGHT Light shade drain; soggy compost can lead to root
HUMIDITY Low rot. Allow the top of the compost to dry
CARE Fairly easy out between waterings. Set on a tray of
HEIGHT & SPREAD 45 x 45cm (18 x 18in) damp pebbles to increase humidity.
WARNING! All parts are toxic FEEDING Apply a balanced liquid
fertilizer once a month between spring
The perfect pick-me-up in spring, the and late summer.
Indian azalea’s blend of glossy, dark
green leaves and early blooms will liven PLANTING AND CARE Plant in a small
up any cool room at this time of year. 7.5–10cm (3–4in) pot in house plant
Its clusters of single or double flowers, compost (or a 2:1 mix of soil-based and
sometimes with ruffled petals, come in multipurpose composts). Set in filtered
shades of pink, red, white, or bicolours. light, out of draughts, but move to sunny
The buds are beautiful too, and the windowsill in winter. Deadhead regularly.
blooms last for many weeks.
Repot only when tightly root-bound.
WATERING Water with rainwater or

distilled water and keep the compost
moist from early spring to autumn;
reduce watering just slightly over winter
but never let the plant dry out.
fertilizer designed for acid-loving plants
once a month from spring to autumn.
15–20cm (6–8in) pot, depending on the
size of the azalea, in ericaceous compost.
Set in light shade and a cool room when
in flower. Stand the plant outside in shade
or in a cool room in summer. Repot every
2–3 years in spring when root-bound.
124
JERUSALEM CHERRY BIRD OF PARADISE

Solanum pseudocapsicum Strelitzia reginae AGM

LIGHT Filtered sun LIGHT Sun/Filtered sun
HUMIDITY Low HUMIDITY Moderate
CARE Fairly easy CARE Challenging
HEIGHT & SPREAD 45 x 60cm HEIGHT & SPREAD 90 x 60cm (3 x 2ft)
(18 x 24in) WARNING! All parts are toxic
Large, blue-grey, paddle-shaped leaves
Unremarkable for much of the year, provide a foil for this plant’s sculptural
this plant explodes with colour in flowers. The exotic blooms, which look
autumn and winter when its red like an exotic bird, take several months
tomato-like fruits emerge, adding to appear on fully mature plants that are
a colourful natural feature to winter at least three years old.
festive decorations. The dark green
wavy-edged leaves and starry white WATERING Keep the compost moist in
summer flowers provide interest at other spring and summer; reduce in autumn
times. Do not eat the poisonous fruits. and winter, allowing the top to dry out
PLANT PROFILES
between waterings. Mist daily, set on a

PEACE LILY tray or damp pebbles, or use a humidifier.
Spathiphyllum wallisii
from late spring to midwinter. After the
fruits have faded, allow the top of the
compost to dry out between waterings. TEMPERATURE 12–24°C (55–75°F)
LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade PLANTING AND CARE Grow in a
FEEDING Feed with a balanced fertilizer
HUMIDITY Moderate 20–30cm (8–12in) pot in an 3:1 mix
once a month from late spring until the
CARE Easy of soil-based compost and grit. Set in
fruits appear. After fruiting, allow a few
HEIGHT & SPREAD 60 x 60cm full sun and provide good ventilation in
weeks without fertilizer.
(24 x 24in) summer. Replace the top compost layer

PLANTING AND CARE Grow this WARNING! All parts are poisonous annually; repot every 2 years in spring.
plant in a 10–15cm (4–6in) pot, or
larger, in an equal mix of soil-based The peace lily makes an elegant house
and multipurpose composts. Set in plant with its glossy dark green leaves
bright spot from autumn to spring. and large white flowers. The blooms are
Stand it outside after the frosts or composed of a spike of small flowers,
place in a cool bright room in summer. known as a spadix, and a tear-shaped
When the fruits have shrivelled, cut the spathe (petal-like sheath). The long-
stems back by half to encourage bushy lasting blooms appear in spring and
growth. Repot every 2–3 years in spring. fade gradually from white to green. This
plant also helps to reduce air pollutants.
WATERING From spring to autumn, keep

the compost moist; allow the top of the
compost to dry out between waterings
in winter. Mist regularly or set on a tray
of damp pebbles.
fertilizer every 2 weeks from early spring
to late autumn.
PLANTING AND CARE Grow a peace lily
in a 15–20cm (6–8in) pot in an equal mix
of multipurpose and soil-based compost.
Stand in a bright spot or some shade, out
of direct sun. Remove flower stems after
blooming. Repot only when root-bound.
125
CAPE PRIMROSE
Streptocarpus hybrids
TEMPERATURE 12–24°C (55–75°F) WATERING Water either from above

LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade or below, by placing the pot in a tray
HUMIDITY Moderate of water for 20 minutes and then leaving
CARE Easy the plant to drain. Allow the top of the
HEIGHT & SPREAD 60 x 60cm compost to dry out between waterings
(24 x 24in) from spring to autumn, and reduce so
that the compost is almost dry in winter.
These free-flowering plants come in a Overwatering can cause root rot.
huge assortment of colours to suit any FEEDING Apply a high-potash fertilizer
decor or display, from white, pink, and
red, to blues and purples. Many are
also bicoloured or have patterned PLANTING AND CARE Plant in a small
petals. The blooms appear from spring 10–15cm (4–6in) pot in multipurpose
to autumn on slim stems above a rosette or house plant compost. Set in a partly Streptocarpus ‘Polka-Dot Purple’ AGM
of wrinkled, lance-shaped green leaves, shaded spot, such as near a window
although some types, such as Crystal which receives direct sun for half the day.
varieties, flower in winter too. Cape One of the more unusual varieties,
During winter, move it to a windowsill
primroses are quite easy to grow, and ‘Polka-Dot Purple’ sports white blooms,
will decorate a windowsill or bright in a window that receives direct sunlight
decorated with a fine purple lacy
area of your home for many years. for most of the day. Cut off flower stems
pattern that makes them looks spotty
as blooms begin to fade and remove
from a distance.
old leaves in spring when fresh growth
appears. Repot into a slightly larger
container each spring, but keep the
plant a little root-bound.
Streptocarpus ‘Targa’
You may also find this Cape primrose

Streptocarpus under the name ‘Stella’, but either way,
‘Falling Stars’ AGM
it is an excellent variety, producing a
wealth of velvety-looking flowers with a
This award-winning pale blue Cape slight sheen in two rich tones of purple.
primrose produces an abundance of Streptocarpus ‘Pink Leyla’ AGM
small blooms from early spring, and
continues to flower until autumn.
The blooms of ‘Pink Leyla’ warrant close
inspection to appreciate the clear white
upper petals with delicate rose-pink
brush strokes on the lower lips.
126
DELTA
MAIDENHAIR FERN
Adiantum raddianum AGM

CARE Fairly easy
(20 x 32in)
This elegant fern’s dark stems and small

round leaves produce an airy, tree-like
shape, and it makes a stand-out centre-
piece on a table or plant stand. It is
a good candidate for a terrarium, too,
as it thrives in humid conditions.
FERNS WATERING Keep the compost moist, not

wet, at all times, and set on a tray of damp
PLANT PROFILES
pebbles or mist the foliage daily.

fertilizer monthly from spring to autumn.
PLANTING AND CARE Plant this
fern in a 15–20cm (6–8in) container in
With their graceful, arching stems multipurpose compost. Stand in light
of finely divided or wavy-edged leaves, shade, out of direct sun and draughts;
a humid bathroom or kitchen would
known as fronds, ferns make beautiful
FERNS
make a good home. Repot every 2 years

in spring. If the plant starts to look tatty,
house plants for shady areas. Try using one cut off all the stems at the base in spring;
as an elegant focal point on a table or it will soon regenerate healthy growth.
stand, or group a few together to create a

lush woodland effect. Ferns do not bear
flowers or seeds, instead reproducing via
spores held in small brown cases
(“sporangia”) on the undersides of
the fronds.
127
BIRD’S NEST FERN

Asplenium nidus AGM
TEMPERATURE 13–24°C WATERING Keep the compost moist

(55–75°F) at all times, ensuring water does not
LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade drip into the frond rosette, which can
HUMIDITY Moderate to high lead to rotting. Mist with rainwater or
CARE Fairly easy distilled water every day or two, or set
HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to on a tray of damp pebbles.
60 x 40cm (24 x 16in) FEEDING From spring to early
autumn, apply a half-strength
Unlike many ferns, this one has wide
balanced liquid fertilizer every
strap-shaped, undivided, fronds. The
2 weeks.
handsome bright green foliage forms
a compact vase shape, and some PLANTING AND CARE Plant in an
types, such as ‘Crispy Wave’, have equal mix of charcoal, loam-based
crinkled, wavy-edged leaves that look compost, and multipurpose compost,
like the ruffles on a flamenco skirt. in a 15–20cm (6–8in) pot. Set in a
draught-free area, out of direct
sunlight; a bathroom would be a
FOXTAIL FERN good spot. Repot young plants every
Asparagus densiflorus
2 years in spring.

CARE Easy
(2 x 2ft)
Despite its delicate appearance, the

foxtail fern is very easy to grow, and
makes a handsome specimen in a
hanging basket or tall pot where its
feathery fronds will cascade over the
sides. Although not a true fern, its finely
divided foliage and general appearance
means it is usually sold as one.

from spring to autumn; reduce in winter,
allowing the top to dry out between
waterings. It is tolerant of drier air
than true ferns, but misting the foliage
occasionally keeps it healthy.
FEEDING Apply a half-strength
from spring to autumn.
to medium-sized 10–15cm (4–6in) pot
in soil-based compost, and set in bright
filtered sun or light shade. Remove
brown or overly long stems in spring,
and, if root-bound, repot into a container
one size larger.
128
CROCODILE FERN
Microsorum musifolium ‘Crocodyllus’

LIGHT Light shade
HUMIDITY Moderate
CARE Fairly easy
HEIGHT & SPREAD
60 x 60cm (24 x 24in)
Display this remarkable-looking

fern where its distinctive crocodile-
skin leaf patterns can be admired
up close – a hanging basket at
eye-level would be ideal. This
architectural plant demands high
humidity and will thrive in a kitchen
or bathroom where there is space
RABBIT’S FOOT FERN for its wide-spreading fronds. BOSTON FERN
Humata tyermanii Nephrolepis exaltata AGM
PLANT PROFILES
WATERING Water from spring to early

autumn when the top of the compost
is almost dry; in winter, allow the top to
LIGHT Light shade LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade
dry out between waterings. Set on a tray
HUMIDITY Moderate to high HUMIDITY Moderate
of damp pebbles, and mist the leaves
CARE Fairly easy every few days in spring and summer. CARE Fairly easy
HEIGHT & SPREAD 30 x 50cm HEIGHT & SPREAD 60 x 60cm
(12 x 20in) FEEDING Apply a half-strength balanced (24 x 24in)
liquid fertilizer once a month from spring
Also known as the spider fern, its long, to early autumn. This popular plant, also known as the
FERNS
furry rhizomes (root-like structures) sword fern, is loved for its fountain
PLANTING AND CARE In a 15–20cm
make an eye-catching feature when of arching, finely divided, green fronds,
(6–8in) pot, plant this fern in an equal
they trail over the sides of a pot. You which look spectacular flowing from
can also show them off in kokedama mix of soil-based and multipurpose a pot on a stand or a hanging basket.
displays (see pp76–79). The rich green composts. Place out of direct sunlight Relatively easy to care for, just maintain
lacy foliage adds to this plant’s charms. in a lightly shaded spot; it may need to a humid atmosphere to prevent the
be moved closer to a window in winter. leaves from turning brown.
WATERING Keep the compost moist Repot every 2 years or when root-bound.
from spring to autumn; allow the top WATERING From spring to autumn, keep
of the compost to dry out between the compost moist but not wet (fronds
waterings in winter. Mist regularly can rot in soggy compost); allow the
or place on a tray of damp pebbles. top of the compost to dry out between
waterings in winter. Mist regularly or
FEEDING Apply a half-strength place on a tray of damp pebbles.
balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks
from spring to early autumn.
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in to early autumn.
an equal mix of multipurpose and
ericaceous composts in a 15–20cm
12.5–15cm (5–6in) pot in a 50:50 mix
(6–8in) pot or a hanging basket.
of multipurpose and soil-based
Do not bury the furry rhizomes.
composts, and place out of direct
Place in an area of high
sunlight in filtered light or part shade.
humidity, such as a
A bathroom with good ventilation is an
bathroom, in light shade
ideal home. Repot into a container one
and a cool spot in summer.
size larger every 2–3 years if the plant
Repot in spring if the plant
becomes root-bound.
becomes root-bound.
129
BUTTON FERN CRETAN BRAKE FERN

Pellaea rotundifolia AGM Pteris cretica AGM

LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade
(12 x 12in) (2 x 2ft)
The arching fronds of this graceful fern This much-loved, dainty fern is best
are composed of tiny button-shaped displayed on its own, where the wiry
leaves that add a light, airy note to stems topped with slim, finger-like
a display of foliage plants. It also makes fronds, have space to expand. Choose
an elegant subject for a small hanging STAGHORN FERN between the plain green fronds of the
basket, and can be used as edging for Platycerium bifurcatum AGM species and variegated forms that
a large pot of taller shade-loving plants. features a white stripe through the
Despite its delicate appearance, the TEMPERATURE 10–24°C (50–75°F) centre of each leaflet.
button fern is easier to care for than
LIGHT Filtered sun
many of its cousins, tolerating drier
HUMIDITY High WATERING Ensure the compost
compost and lower humidity levels.
CARE Challenging is moist, but not wet, from spring to
HEIGHT & SPREAD 30 x 90cm autumn; in winter, allow the top of the
WATERING From spring to autumn,
(12 x 36in) compost to dry out between waterings.
water when the top of the compost
Mist the foliage every day or two.
feels almost dry; reduce watering slightly
in winter. Set on a tray of damp pebbles Impossible to overlook, the spectacular FEEDING Apply a half strength balanced
antler-shaped fronds of the staghorn
or mist the foliage every few days. liquid fertilizer once a month from spring
fern make this demanding plant a
to early autumn.
FEEDING Apply a half-strength balanced popular choice. It actually produces
liquid feed once a month year-round. two types of fronds: those at the base PLANTING AND CARE Plant this fern
are round, flat, and green, and turn in a 12.5–15cm (5–6in) pot in a 2:1:1
PLANTING AND CARE Grow in a 15cm brown with age, so do not worry if mix of soil-based compost, multipurpose
(6in) pot, or one that fits the root ball, this happens; the large, antler-shaped compost, and charcoal. Set out of direct
and plant in ericaceous compost with a fronds grow from these smaller leaves.
sunlight in a shady spot and a humid
handful of perlite for added drainage.
atmosphere, such as a bathroom. Cut
Place your fern in filtered light or a
WATERING Keep the compost moist back brown or tatty fronds at the base
slightly shaded area, out of direct sun –
from spring to early autumn – set the pot and repot every 2 years in spring.
it will not suffer in draughts and is tolerant
in a tray of water for about 15 minutes
of low winter temperatures (not freezing).
if the round leaves have covered the
Repot in fresh compost every year or two,
compost, as soaking these can cause
or when it becomes root-bound.
them to rot. Allow the top of the compost
Mist the leaves every day in the morning,
and set on a tray of damp pebbles,
or install a room humidifier.
FEEDING From spring to early autumn,
apply a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly.
PLANTING AND CARE Plant
young ferns in a medium-sized
12.5–15cm (5-6in) pot or
basket of orchid compost,
and keep the plant out
of direct sunlight in a
humid atmosphere, such
as a bathroom. Repot
every 2–3 years in spring.
130
PALMS PONY TAIL PALM

PLANT PROFILES
Beaucarnea recurvata AGM

Transform your home into a tropical HUMIDITY Low
CARE Easy
paradise with an elegant palm or palm-like HEIGHT & SPREAD up to 2 x 1m (6 x 3ft)
plant, or include a few in a conservatory or

PALMS
Native to Mexico, the ponytail palm’s

fountain of hair-like leaves and textured,
bright room to evoke a parlour of the Belle distinctive trunk, with its large swollen
Époque era when palms were first popular. base, make it a star attraction in any
house plant display. Although not
Many of these tall, leafy plants are easy to officially a palm (it is a relative of the
yucca), its similar features mean that
grow, but check before buying if you are a it is often grouped with them.
beginner, as some are quite demanding. WATERING In summer, water once a

week, allowing the top of the compost
They are long-lived, and will provide many
to dry out between waterings; its bulbous
years of beauty, if given the right care. stem stores water and will keep it alive
if you forget occasionally. In winter the
compost should be almost dry.

liquid fertilizer once a month in spring
and summer.
PLANTING AND CARE Grow your plant
in a large 25–30cm (10–12in) pot in a
3:1 mix of soil-based compost and sharp
sand. Set in bright light. Replenish the top
layer of compost every spring, and repot
this slow-growing plant every 2–3 years in
a container just one size larger.
131
PARLOUR PALM
Chamaedorea elegans AGM
FISHTAIL PALM
Caryota mitis
LIGHT Light shade
TEMPERATURE 13–24°C HUMIDITY Low to moderate
(55–75°F) CARE Easy
LIGHT Filtered sun HEIGHT & SPREAD 1.2 x 0.6m (4 x 2ft)
CARE Fairly easy This popular palm produces an elegant
HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 2.5 x 1.5m fountain of lush, feathery foliage. Happy
(8 x 5ft) in shade and tolerant of low levels of
humidity, it is a very easy plant to grow
and also helps to purify the air. Clusters
of tiny yellow flowers sometimes appear
The unusual triangular foliage of this
on mature plants.
palm make it an intriguing house plant.
The fishtail-shaped, serrated leaves look
like they have been torn or nibbled, while WATERING Allow the top of the compost
the stems fan out elegantly. to dry out between waterings in summer;
reduce in winter so that the compost is
WATERING From spring to autumn, almost dry. Mist the leaves regularly.
water when the top of the compost feels
just dry; reduce watering a little in winter.
Stand on a tray of damp pebbles and
mist the foliage every day or two. PLANTING AND CARE Grow your palm
in a large 20–30cm (8–12in) pot in an
equal mix of soil-based and multipurpose
composts. Set in light shade; it will not
PLANTING AND CARE Grow in soil- be happy in deep shade. Cut out any
based compost in a pot that just fits brown fronds at the base; it is normal for
the root ball (it likes to be constricted). fronds to die off from time to time. Repot
Set in filtered light, out of direct summer every 2–3 years when root-bound.
sun. Repot young plants every 2–3 years;
replace the top layer of compost each
spring when mature.
132
ARECA PALM
Dypsis lutescens AGM

LIGHT Filtered sun
HUMIDITY Moderate
CARE Fairly easy
HEIGHT & SPREAD 2 x 1m (6 x 3ft)
Also known as the butterfly palm, this

popular house plant has arching, wide,
glossy green fronds. Sprays of small
yellow flowers may appear in summer.
It is easy to grow, and one of the best
house plants for removing air pollutants.
WATERING From spring to early autumn,

SAGO PALM allow the top of the compost to dry out
Cycas revoluta AGM
between waterings; reduce watering
in winter so the compost is almost dry.
PLANT PROFILES
TEMPERATURE 13–24°C (55–75°F) Mist every day or two, or stand on a tray

LIGHT Filtered sun of damp pebbles.
HUMIDITY Moderate
KENTIA PALM
CARE Easy Howea forsteriana AGM
fertilizer 2–3 times during the growing
HEIGHT & SPREAD 60 x 60cm season from spring to autumn.
(24 x 24in) TEMPERATURE 13–24°C (55–75°F)
WARNING! All parts are toxic PLANTING AND CARE Grow in a
LIGHT Light shade
20–30cm (8–12in) pot in soil-based
HUMIDITY Moderate
Although not a true palm, this chunky compost. Set in filtered light, and away
CARE Fairly easy
PALMS
plant’s textured trunk, topped with from heaters in winter. Remove dead
arching fronds, certainly looks like one. fronds at the base, and repot every HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 3 x 2m
While it is, in fact, a cycad (an ancient 3 years in spring if root-bound. (8 x 5ft)
group of slow-growing plants), it would
not look out of place on a tropical Perfect for a shady room, the kentia
beach. Beware the sharp, needle-like palm has tall stems of dark green, glossy
leaves when positioning it. leaves that fan out elegantly to create
a striking feature plant. Relatively easy
to grow, it is a good choice for beginners.
WATERING From spring to
autumn, allow the top of the
WATERING Water from spring to autumn
compost to dry out a little
when the top of the compost feels
before watering. In winter, the compost
slightly dry; in winter reduce so
should be almost dry. Overwatering,
that the compost is just moist.
or watering the crown (where the
Stand on a tray of damp pebbles or mist
leaves emerge), can cause rot.
every few days.
Mist the leaves in summer.
FEEDING Feed with a half-strength
to early autumn.
PLANTING AND CARE Plant this palm
in a 20–30cm (8–12in) pot in 3:1 mix of
20–30cm (8–12in) pot in an equal mix of
soil-based compost and sharp sand.
soil-based and multipurpose composts.
Stand in light shade and away from
Set it in good light, out of direct summer
draughts. Replace the top of the compost
sun, and away from radiators in winter.
annually in spring, but repot only when
It is a slow-growing plant, and will
the plant is tightly root-bound.
need repotting every 3 years or when
root-bound.
133
MINIATURE DATE PALM BAMBOO PALM

Phoenix roebelenii AGM Rhapis excelsa AGM
TEMPERATURE 10–24°C (50–75°F) TEMPERATURE 10–25°C (50–77°F) so that the top of the compost feels
LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade LIGHT Light shade/Shade dry between waterings. Mist the
HUMIDITY Moderate HUMIDITY Low to moderate leaves every few days in summer.
CARE Fairly easy CARE Easy FEEDING Apply a balanced liquid
HEIGHT & SPREAD 1.8 x 1.5m (6 x 5ft) HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 2 x 2m (6 x 6ft) fertilizer 2–3 times during the growing
season from spring to autumn, or
Like one of the classic palms along the If you are looking for a palm with a use a slow-release fertilizer once in
Côte d’Azur, this plant’s textured stem difference, try this unusual plant. Its
early spring.
and fine, feathery fronds have a stylish bamboo-like stems and large fronds,
elegance. Almost as wide as it is tall, it composed of blunt-ended, ribbed leaves, PLANTING AND CARE Grow in pot
needs plenty of space to show off its catch the eye when displayed in a large that just fits the root ball in a 3:1 mix
sculptural silhouette. Mature plants bear room or hallway. Slow-growing and of multipurpose compost and perlite.
cream summer flowers and edible fruits. tolerant of low light conditions, it is one of Stand in light shade; it will tolerate
the easiest palms to grow, making it ideal deeper shade in summer but may
for a beginner. The smaller Rhapis humilis
WATERING Keep the compost moist need moving closer to the window
is another good choice.
from spring to autumn; in winter, allow in winter. Trim off old, brown fronds
the top to dry out between waterings. close to the trunk when they appear.
Stand on a tray of damp pebbles, and Repot every 2–3 years, but only when
from spring to autumn, but avoid
mist the leaves regularly in warm weather. root-bound.
waterlogging. Reduce in winter
PLANTING AND CARE Grow in a pot
that just fits the root ball, in soil-based
compost. Stand in filtered light or a little
shade, away from draughts. If possible,
move to a cooler room in winter. Replace
the top of the compost each spring;
repot every 2–3 years when root-bound.
134
TRAILING
PLANT PROFILES
AND CLIMBING
PLANTS LIPSTICK PLANT
Aeschynanthus pulcher AGM
TRAILING AND CLIMBING PLANTS

LIGHT Filtered sun
HUMIDITY Moderate
CARE Fairly easy
Cover your walls with flowers and foliage HEIGHT & SPREAD 20 x 70cm (8 x 28in)
and inject colour into the space above
Cascading stems of fleshy green leaves
your head with these climbing and trailing create a lush foliage effect all year round,
but the show really starts in summer
plants. Some climbers can be grown when this trailer’s spectacular red
tubular flowers open, emerging from
up a mossy pole to keep them compact, darker cases (sepals) like bright lipsticks.
or you can attach their twining stems to
WATERING From spring to autumn, apply
wires and trellises fixed to your walls. tepid rainwater or distilled water when
the top of the compost feels dry. Keep it a
Easy to grow in hanging baskets or little drier in winter. Mist every day or two.
cascading from shelves, trailers are the FEEDING Use a half-strength balanced
liquid fertilizer once a month in spring
perfect option when floor space is tight.
and summer.
PLANTING AND CARE Grow in a pot
that just fits the root ball, in a 4:1:1 mix
of soil-based compost, sand, and perlite.
Hang in bright filtered light, out of direct
sun, and keep warm year-round. Repot
plants in spring when tightly root-bound.
135
SPIDER PLANT
Chlorophytum comosum
PAPER FLOWER TEMPERATURE 7–25°C (45–76°F)

Bougainvillea × buttiana
HUMIDITY Low
TEMPERATURE 10–26°C (50–79°F) CARE Easy
LIGHT Sun HEIGHT & SPREAD 12 x 60cm (1x 2ft)
HUMIDITY Low
CARE Fairly easy Do not dismiss the spider plant just
HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 1.5 x 1.5m because it is widely available and easy
(5 x 5ft) to grow. It makes an eye-catching
WARNING! All parts are toxic to pets feature in a pot on a stand or in a
hanging basket, its arching green
and yellow leaves flowing gracefully
This climber will cover a wall in a sunny
over the sides, while baby plantlets
room with twining stems of small green
dangle from long stems like spiders
leaves and bright flowers, or you can
on silken threads.
train it up canes or a hoop to keep it
compact. The papery blooms comprise
red, pink, or white bracts (petal-like WATERING Keep the compost moist
modified leaves) and tiny cream flowers. from spring to autumn, and allow the top
WATERING From spring to early autumn,
FEEDING From mid-spring to early
keep the compost moist; reduce watering
autumn, apply a balanced liquid feed
in winter so the compost is just moist.
every 2–3 weeks.
STRING OF HEARTS
Ceropegia linearis subsp. woodii PLANTING AND REPOTTING Plant in a
fertilizer every 2 weeks from spring to late
50:50 mix of multipurpose and soil-based
summer, replacing it with a high-potash
composts in a pot that will accommodate
feed at every third application. TEMPERATURE 8–24°C (46–75°F)
the root ball. Set in filtered light or a little
PLANTING AND CARE Grow in a pot that shade, out of direct sun. It will tolerate
HUMIDITY Moderate
fits the root ball in soil-based compost. gloomier areas but may not produce
Stand in full sun, and tie the stems to CARE Easy plantlets. Repot every 2–3 years in
canes, a hoop, or wires fixed to a wall. HEIGHT & SPREAD 5 x 90cm (2 x 36in) spring when the plant is root-bound.
Prune sideshoots in autumn. Repot young
plants every 2 years; refresh the top layer The thread-like stems of this plant’s tiny
heart-shaped leaves tumble over the
of compost each spring when mature.
sides of its pot, just as its name describes.
Display it high enough for the plant’s
long stems to trail down to where you
can admire the patterned leaves, which
are grey-green with purple undersides.
The small pink and purple tubular
summer flowers are followed by long,
needle-like seedpods.
WATERING Water only when the top of

the compost feels dry; in winter reduce
watering so the compost is almost dry.
liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks in summer.
PLANTING AND CARE Grow in cactus
compost in a 10–20cm (4–8in) pot. Hang
your plant in a basket or set on a shelf
in bright light; it may lose its coloration
if the light levels are too low. Repot only
when root-bound.
136
DEVIL’S IVY
Epipremnum aureum AGM

LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade/Shade
HUMIDITY Low
CARE Easy
HEIGHT & SPREAD up to 2 x 2m (6 x 6ft)
One of the best house plants for

beginners, the almost indestructible
devil’s ivy produces trailing or climbing
stems of large heart-shaped leaves that
create a lush tropical effect. Display
it in a hanging basket or set the pot
on a tall plant stand anywhere in your
home, apart from areas in full sun.
WATERING Allow the top of the compost

to autumn; in winter keep just moist.
GRAPE IVY PLANTING AND CARE Plant in soil-based
Cissus rhombifolia AGM
compost in a pot that fits the root ball.
Set in bright or low light, out of direct
TEMPERATURE 12–24°C (59–75°F) sun. If grown as a climber, tie stems to a
LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade moss pole, trellis, or wires. Prune in spring.

HUMIDITY Low Repot every 2 years; replace the top layer
CARE Easy of compost of mature plants each spring.
HEIGHT & SPREAD up to 2 x 2m
(6 x 6ft)
The glossy lobed foliage of this

easy-care plant will trail from a
basket or scramble up a trellis
to cover wall. The leaves are have
a silvery sheen when young, and
then mature to dark green, giving
a two-toned effect.

from spring to autumn, and reduce
in winter so it is just moist.
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in soil-based
compost in a 15–20cm (6–8in) pot. If you
grow it as a climber, tie the shoots in
regularly to their supports. Trim back
long growth in spring, and repot every
2–3 years or when root-bound, or replace
the top layer of compost of mature plants
each spring.
137
CREEPING FIG JASMINE

Ficus pumila ‘Snowflake’ Jasminum polyanthum AGM

LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade LIGHT Filtered sun
HUMIDITY Low HUMIDITY Low
CARE Fairly easy CARE Fairly easy
HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 90 x 90cm HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 3 x 3m
(3 x3ft) (10 x 10ft)
WARNING! All parts are toxic to pets
When it flowers in midwinter, this
Use this dainty little trailing plant to climber’s sweet scent will fill a cool
dress up a hanging basket or flow over room, such as a hallway, with fragrance.
the sides of a pot of flowering or larger The blooms are pink in bud, and appear
foliage plants. It can also be persuaded over many weeks between the dark
to climb a trellis, creating a textured green leaves. This is a large plant, and
screen of small, round, cream-edged while you can train it up canes when
leaves. While fairly easy to grow, if the young, it soon becomes a tangle of
plant is not watered regularly and left stems if not given space to expand
to drain, the foliage can soon dry out. on wires or a trellis.

at all times, but a little drier in winter. Mist
HOYA from spring to late summer; reduce
Hoya species watering a little in winter, but ensure the
every day or two in hot summer weather.
compost is moist when in bud and flower.
TEMPERATURE 16–24°C (61–75°F) FEEDING Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer
fertilizer monthly in spring and summer.
LIGHT Filtered sun every 2 weeks from spring to autumn.
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in a HUMIDITY Moderate
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in a pot
10–20cm (4–8in) pot in soil-based CARE Fairly easy that just fits the root ball in soil-based
compost. Set in filtered sun or light HEIGHT & SPREAD 4 x 4m (13 x 13ft) compost, mixed with a few handfuls of
shade. Pinch out the stem tips to produce WARNING! The milky sap is toxic perlite. Keep cool, as jasmine will suffer
bushy growth. If plants start to look leggy,
in warm, centrally heated rooms. Prune
cut them back hard to promote new leafy The waxy white flowers of this beautiful after flowering – you can be quite brutal
growth. Repot every 2 years in spring. climber release a sweet fragrance when
to keep it compact. Only repot young
they open in summer. To cover a wall with
plants; for mature plants, just replace the
long leafy stems, choose Hoya carnosa
AGM, or, if you have a small space to top layer of compost each spring.
fill, opt for the more compact Hoya
lanceolata subsp. bella AGM (above).
WATERING From spring to autumn, keep

the compost moist; water when the top
of the compost is dry in winter. Set on a
tray of damp pebbles, or mist regularly,
but not when in bud or flower.
high-potash fertilizer every 2 weeks
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in a pot that
easily fits the root ball, in an equal mix of
orchid compost, multipurpose compost,
and perlite. Prune lightly in autumn, but
do not remove the flower stalks, as more
blooms will grow from these stumps.
Repot in spring when root-bound.
138
PLANT PROFILES
MANDEVILLA
Mandevilla × amoena ‘Alice du Pont’ AGM

LIGHT Filtered sun
HUMIDITY Moderate
CARE Challenging
HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 7 x 7m
(23 x 23ft)
It is easy to be tempted by the

large, pink, tropical flowers of this
twining climber, but remember
that it needs a large space to
thrive, and may sulk in the
average living room. However,
it makes an outstanding feature on a wall
in a conservatory or room with a skylight.

from spring to autumn; reduce in
winter so the compost is just moist.
Mist the foliage every day in summer.
fertilizer once a month in spring and
switch to a high-potash feed in summer.
PLANTING AND CARE Grow in a large
25–30cm (10–12in) pot in a 3:1 mix of
soil-based compost and grit. Stand in
bright light, out of direct summer sun.
Prune in spring to create a framework of
3–5 strong shoots; if there is only one
shoot, reduce it by a third to prompt more
to form. Replace the top layer of compost
annually in spring, rather than repotting.
139
HEART-LEAF
Philodendron scandens AGM
TEMPERATURE 16-24ºC (60-75ºF)

CARE Easy
HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 1.5 x 1.5m
(5 x 5ft)
SWISS CHEESE PLANT This impressive climber will cover a

Monstera deliciosa AGM wall with its large, heart-shaped leaves,
which can grow up to 20cm (10in) in
TEMPERATURE 18-27ºC (65-80ºF) length, transforming a living room into
a lush jungle in no time. It is easy to care
for, grows well in low light, and can be
HUMIDITY Moderate trained up a mossy pole to keep it
CARE Easy compact in a small space.
HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 8 x 2.5m
(26 x 8ft)
from spring to autumn; reduce in
winter, watering only when the top of
This classic climbing plant
first became popular in RED PASSION FLOWER the compost feels dry. Mist the leaves
the 1970s. Admired for its Passiflora racemosa AGM every few days in spring and summer.
glossy, heart-shaped, lobed FEEDING Apply a balanced liquid
and perforated leaves, which TEMPERATURE 12–24°C (54–75°F) fertilizer once a month from spring
give rise to its name, this
LIGHT Filtered sun to early autumn.
easy-care plant is often
sold with the stems tied HUMIDITY Moderate
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in a large
to a mossy pole. CARE Challenging 20–30cm (8–12in) pot in a 2:1 mix of
HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 3 x 1m (10 x 3ft) soil-based compost and sand or perlite.
WATERING Water Young plants can be grown in a hanging
when the top of The most widely available passion basket, with the stems trailing down. As
flower is the blue form (Passiflora
the compost feels they grow larger, attach the stems to a
caerulea), which is hardy and easier
dry; reduce watering slightly in winter. to grow outside in mild regions, while mossy pole, trellis, or horizontal wires
Mist every few days or set on a tray of this more unusual red type is tender. Its fixed to a wall. Stand in filtered sun or
damp pebbles. showy, bowl-shaped, summer flowers light shade; it tolerates darker shade
lend a tropical note to a conservatory but may not grow as
or bright room with a skylight. It also vigorously. Wipe leaves
liquid fertilizer every month from spring
produces pale green edible fruits. regularly to remove
to autumn.
dust. Prune in late
PLANTING AND CARE Grow in a winter and repot in
20–30cm (8–12in) pot in 3:1 mix of spring, or replace
from spring to autumn. In winter, water
soil-based compost and sand. Set in the top layer of
only when the top of the compost feels
filtered sun or light shade; shaded foliage compost annually.
dry. Mist plants every day in summer
will not produce holes. Prune in spring,
or set on tray of damp pebbles.
and wipe the leaves regularly to remove
dust. Repot every 2–3 years, or replace the FEEDING Apply a balanced liquid
top layer of compost annually in spring. fertilizer every 2 weeks from mid-spring
to late summer.
compost. Stand in bright filtered sun, and
prune in early spring. Repot young plants
in spring; when mature, just replace the
top layer of compost annually.
140
CAPE IVY
Senecio macroglossus ‘Variegatus’ AGM

HUMIDITY Low
MIND-YOUR-OWN-
CARE Easy
BUSINESS
Soleirolia soleirolii
(5 x 5ft)
WARNING! All parts are toxic TEMPERATURE -5–24°C (23–75°F)
Masquerading as a regular ivy, this HUMIDITY Moderate
beautiful house plant has a little more CARE Easy
class, with its glossy, fleshy, green and HEIGHT & SPREAD 5 x 90cm (2 x 36in)
yellow leaves and dark twining stems.
Use it to trail from a basket or grow it Also known as baby’s tears, this pretty
on a hoop or up a tripod or trellis. plant forms a mound of tiny leaves on
wiry stems, which look like a mop of
WATERING Allow the top of the curly hair trailing daintily from its pot.
compost to dry out between waterings It suits contemporary displays, flowing
PLANT PROFILES
from spring to late summer; reduce from the top of three identical tall pots.
watering in autumn and winter so it is Take care when planting it up with
just moist. partners; it is fast-growing and can
take over if not trimmed regularly. Tiny
FEEDING Apply a half-strength balanced pink-white flowers appear in summer.
liquid fertilizer from spring to autumn. STRING OF PEARLS
Senecio rowleyanus
PLANTING AND CARE Plant Cape ivy WATERING Keep the compost moist
in a 15cm (6in) pot in cactus compost from spring to autumn, and slightly drier
or a 3:1 mix of soil-based compost and TEMPERATURE 10–25°C (50–77°F) in winter. If left to dry out, the leaves will
sharp sand. Stand in direct sun, moving LIGHT Sun/Filtered sun in summer shrivel and die. Mist every few days.
to bright filtered light in midsummer. HUMIDITY Low
Trim the shoot tips in spring if they get CARE Easy liquid fertilizer every month from spring
too long, and tie the stems to their HEIGHT & SPREAD 5 x 90cm (2 x 36in) to autumn.
support regularly. Repot every 2–3 years WARNING! All parts are toxic
or when the plant becomes root-bound. PLANTING AND CARE Plant this trailer
The slender stems of little pea-like in a 10–20cm (4–8in) pot in a 3:1 mix of
leaves flow from this trailing plant’s pot soil-based compost and grit. Display in
like strings of green pearls, making an filtered sun or light shade, out of direct
intriguing feature. It is a good choice sun. Trim the stem tips to maintain bushy
for beginners, since the fleshy “beads” growth. Repot every 1–2 years.
retain moisture and will sail through
periods of neglect. Small white tubular
flowers may also appear in spring.

to autumn; in winter, keep just moist so
the beads do not shrivel up.
liquid fertilizer from spring to autumn.
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in either
cactus compost or a 3:1 mix of soil-based
compost and sharp sand, in a 10–15cm
(4–6in) pot. Set in filtered light in summer,
and a cooler but bright spot in winter.
Trim in spring and repot every 2–3 years.
141
STEPHANOTIS
Stephanotis floribunda AGM
TEMPERATURE 10–23°C (50–73°F) WATERING Keep the compost moist from

LIGHT Filtered sun spring to autumn; allow the top to dry out
HUMIDITY Moderate between waterings in winter. Stand on a
CARE Fairly easy tray of damp pebbles and mist the leaves
HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 3 x 3m every day or two in summer.
(10 x 10ft) FEEDING Apply a high-potash liquid
This climber’s long, twining stems of
to autumn.
glossy green leaves and fragrant, long-
lasting waxy white flowers combine to PLANTING AND CARE Grow in a pot
create a spectacular visual and sensory that fits the root ball in soil-based
effect in summer. Given a large pot and compost. Set in bright filtered light, out
good care, it can be grown along wires of direct sun. Keep plants cool in summer
to cover a wall, or train it over a large – around 21–23ºC (70–73ºF) is ideal – and
hoop or on a trellis and prune the stems
a little cooler still (but not cold) in winter.
regularly to keep it more compact.
Trim back lightly in spring, and replace
large, overgrown plants. Repot every
2–3 years or renew the top layer of
SILVER-INCH PLANT
Tradescantia zebrina AGM
compost each spring.

LIGHT Filtered sun
CARE Easy
(6 x 24in)
The gently trailing stems of the silver-

inch plant make a striking feature in a
hanging basket or pot on a shelf in a
bright room. The fleshy silver and green
striped leaves are purple when young,
and the undersides remain purple
as they mature, creating a colourful
three-toned effect. Small pinkish-purple
flowers appear throughout the year.

water when the top of the compost is
almost dry; in winter, reduce so that the
compost is just moist. Mist the leaves
every few days in spring and summer.
fertilizer once a month from spring
to early autumn.
PLANTING AND CARE Grow in a 3:1
mix of soil-based compost and sharp
sand or perlite and a 15–20cm (6–8in)
pot. In summer, stand in bright filtered
light, out of direct sun. Trim the stem tips
in spring to maintain bushy growth. Repot
every 2–3 years or when root-bound.
142
CALIFORNIA
PITCHER PLANT
Darlingtonia californica AGM
TEMPERATURE -5–26°C (23–78°F)

LIGHT Sun
HUMIDITY Moderate
CARE Challenging
(14 x 8in)
Also known as the cobra lily, the

pitchers of this unusual plant are
CARNIVOROUS
hooded and feature fang-like
structures that resemble a snake’s
head. Purple-veined flowers appear
PLANT PROFILES
in spring, followed by red-veined
PLANTS
pitchers that emit a honey scent to
attract their prey. This plant is quite
demanding, so ensure you can offer
the exacting conditions it needs.
WATERING Water your plant daily with

rainwater or distilled water, or set in a
shallow water-filled tray.
CARNIVOROUS PLANTS
These fascinating plants make intriguing FEEDING Do not feed this pitcher plant.
house plants. They have developed a PLANTING AND CARE Plant in an equal
mix of sphagnum moss,
range of colourful pitchers or sticky leaves
perlite, and horticultural
and stems to trap and consume insects sand (potting compost
will kill this plant). Set in
and other small creatures, which provide sun during the summer.
When dormant in winter,
them with essential nutrients. Most need place the plant outside
boggy soil to thrive, and some require in a sheltered area
or in a cold, bright,
more specialist care, so check that you unheated room.
You may see
can provide the conditions they need. tiny insects if
you look into the
pitchers. These little
creatures live inside
the plant and eat
other prey that fall
in; the pitcher then
digests their faeces.
143
CAPE SUNDEW
Drosera capensis

HUMIDITY Moderate
CARE Easy
The easiest sundew to grow, this

plant’s long slim leaves are covered
with colourful tentacles that produce
a sticky mucilage that looks like drops
of water (hence the name). The leaves
ensnare insects and then curl around
their trapped prey, which is then slowly
absorbed by the plant. In late spring
or early summer, pink flowers appear
VENUS FLY TRAP that last just one day, opening in the
Dionaea muscipula
morning then closing in the afternoon.
TEMPERATURE 9–27°C (48–80°F) WATERING Set the pot in a deep tray

LIGHT Sun of rainwater or distilled water. In its
HUMIDITY Moderate natural habitat, the plant is dormant in MONKEY CUPS
CARE Fairly easy winter and requires less water, but in Nepenthes hybrids
HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 10 x 20cm a warm home, leave it in its water tray to
(4 x 8in) continue growing throughout the year.
FEEDING Do not feed Cape sundews. LIGHT Filtered sun
This plant’s snapping jaw-like leaves
trap flying insects that come within PLANTING AND CARE Plant in a tall
reach, but it will soon die if coaxed to 10–15cm (4–6in) pot in an equal mix of CARE Fairly easy
perform this trick too often. It has two sphagnum moss and perlite; potting HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 30 x 45cm
types of leaf: the spring foliage is broader compost will kill the plant. Set in a bright (12 x 18in)
and produces traps close to the centre spot and open windows regularly to allow
of the plant, while the summer leaves insects in. These will be attracted to the The dark red pitchers that dangle from
are longer and develop red-tinged traps slender stems of this unusual tropical
plant, which needs just 2–3 per month
further away. White tubular flowers plant look otherworldly, emerging from
to survive. Remove dead leaves and
appear in spring. the tips of spear-shaped green leaves.
repot annually in fresh growing medium. The pitchers’ colour and nectar attracts
Remove flowers to prevent self-seeding. insects, which drown when they fall in.
WATERING Place the pot in a deep tray
of rainwater or distilled water from spring
WATERING Never stand in a tray of water
to late summer; from autumn to late
but keep the compost moist. Water from
winter, when dormant, remove it from the
above with rainwater or distilled water. Mist
tray but keep the growing medium moist.
daily or set on a tray of damp pebbles.
FEEDING Do not feed Venus fly traps.
FEEDING Apply a pre-mixed foliar feed
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in a spray and mist the leaves every 2 weeks.
10–15cm (4–6in) pot, in a 50:50 mix of You can give it an occasional fresh fly
sphagnum moss and perlite; potting or insect, although this is rarely needed.
compost will kill the plant. Place in a
sunny spot and open windows regularly
or hanging basket using nepenthes
to allow insects in. Remove the flowers,
compost (chopped pine bark, sphagnum
which can weaken the plant. In winter,
moss, and perlite) from a specialist
when dormant, move it away from
supplier; potting compost will kill the
radiators and heaters. Repot every
plant. Set in a bright spot out of direct
year in late winter or early spring.
sun with good ventilation. Repot every
2–3 years when root-bound.
144
NORTH AMERICAN
PITCHER PLANTS
Sarracenia species and hybrids
TEMPERATURE -5–25°C (23–77°F) WATERING In summer, stand the plant

LIGHT Sun pot in a tray of rainwater or distilled water
HUMIDITY Moderate about 1–2cm (¼–½in) deep. In winter,
CARE Fairly easy remove the plant from the tray and keep
HEIGHT & SPREAD: Up to 30 x 15cm the compost just moist.
(12 x 6in) FEEDING Do not use a fertilizer on this
plant; stand it outside or on a windowsill
These colourful carnivorous plants in summer, which will provide it with
come in a range of sizes, and produce plenty of insect prey.
pitchers in shades of burgundy, red,
pink, and green, often with decorative PLANTING AND CARE Plant in a small
vein patterns. The nectar around the to medium-sized 10–15cm (4–6in) plastic
BUTTERWORT pitcher mouth lures insects, which then pot in a specialist compost mix from a
Pinguicula – Mexican hybrids fall in. While some Sarracenia will grow carnivorous plant supplier (or a 2:1:1 mix
happily outside in boggy soil, those of fine fir bark, coarse lime-free grit, and
from warmer climes make fascinating
PLANT PROFILES
perlite). Do not use potting compost,

TEMPERATURE 18–29°C (65–85°F) house plants for a cool, bright room or which will kill the plant. In late autumn,
LIGHT Filtered sun an unheated conservatory (they need
it will become dormant and should be
HUMIDITY Moderate cool winters). Pendulous red or green
moved to a cool, bright room at 10°C
CARE Easy flowers appear in summer.
(50°F) or colder until early spring. Repot
HEIGHT & SPREAD 15 x 10cm (6 x 4in) every 2–3 years when dormant in autumn,
but do not plant in a large container, as
The delicate small red, pink, or blue it needs to be quite root-bound to thrive.
flowers that appear on this plant in
summer belie its grisly secret. They
CARNIVOROUS PLANTS
are held on slim stems above a rosette

of lime green or bronze foliage, which
is covered with a sticky mucilage that
traps insects, such as fungus gnats.
An enzyme in the leaves then digests
the prey.
WATERING Keep moist by watering

from above with rainwater or distilled
water. When the plant is dormant,
usually in winter, reduce watering,
allowing the top of the compost to
dry out between waterings.
FEEDING No fertilizer is required, as
most homes harbour a few insects;
butterworts need just 2–3 insects per
month to thrive.
PLANTING AND CARE Grow in a Sarracenia mitchelliana
small 10–15cm (4–6in) pot in specialist ‘Bella’ AGM
carnivorous plant compost or a 3:1:1
mix of silica sand, sphagnum moss, One of the many beautiful
and perlite (never use potting compost). hybrids, ‘Bella’ has bright
Set in bright filtered light, out of direct pink, red, and white vein
summer sun. Plants can become patterns on the pitchers
dormant at any time of the year when and lids, and bears bright
they grow small fleshy leaves. Repot red flowers in spring.
when dormant.
145
Sarracenia psittacina Sarracenia purpurea
Known as the parrot pitcher plant, this The purple pitcher plant has short, fat
type will catch crawling insects with pitchers in a deep burgundy colour,
its rosette of decoratively veined red, with dark red or pink flowers in spring.
white, or green horizontal traps. The It is quite hardy and can also be grown
dark spring flowers can vary in colour. outside in the garden or on a patio.
Sarracenia flava
The elegant yellow pitcher plant

has tall, slender yellow–green
pitchers with upright lids, and
nodding yellow flowers in spring.
Sarracenia ‘Judith Hindle’ AGM
The profusion of slim pitchers with frilly

lids set this pretty hybrid apart. Young
pitchers emerge green and mature to
dark red, with marbled veining. Dark
red flowers appear in spring.
146
FOLIAGE
PLANT PROFILES
PLANTS CHINESE EVERGREEN

Aglaonema commutatum

LIGHT Light shade/Shade
FOLIAGE PLANTS
These leafy plants can be used as focal HUMIDITY Moderate

CARE Easy
points or grouped together to create HEIGHT & SPREAD up to 45cm x 45cm
a calming green oasis. Choose a selection (18in x 18in)
WARNING! All parts are poisonous
of plain-leaved types to create a simple
This elegant plant has spear-shaped
backdrop for more intricately patterned leaves, with silver, cream, or pink
patterning. All varieties are easy to care
foliage plants or add bright blooms to for, given warmth and sufficient moisture.
create a colourful display. Many foliage Remove the small flowers to divert the
plant’s energy into growing leaves.
plants are easy to care for, with a few
WATERING Keep the compost moist,
exceptions, and most are happy in rooms but do not leave the pot in standing
that receive little direct sunlight. water, which may cause it to rot. In winter,
allow the top of the compost to dry out
between waterings. Mist twice a week.
to autumn.
compost mixed with a handful or two
of perlite. Set in light shade, or slightly
darker shade, and keep out of draughts.
Repot every 3 years in spring.
147
AMAZONIAN CAST IRON PLANT

ELEPHANT’S EAR Aspidistra elatior AGM
Alocasia × amazonica AGM
TEMPERATURE 18–25°C (65–77°F) LIGHT Light shade/Shade
LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade HUMIDITY Low
HUMIDITY High CARE Easy
CARE Challenging HEIGHT & SPREAD 60 x 60cm
HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 1.2 x 1m (24 x 24in)
(4 x 3ft)
WARNING! All parts are poisonous Ideal for beginners, the cast iron plant
is almost foolproof, and can be tucked
This showstopper has large, dramatic into shady areas where few others will
foliage that sets it apart from the crowd. thrive. While the plain green type is
The arrow-shaped dark green leaves are not very exciting, plants with cream
purple beneath and feature distinctive splashes, stripes or spots, inject
silver vein patterns and wavy edges. more drama into a display.
Remove the small flowers to allow the
plant to focus its energy on the foliage. WATERING Water when the top of
the compost is dry; reduce watering
WATERING Use rainwater or distilled in winter. Never allow the compost
water to keep the compost moist from
ZEBRA PLANT to become waterlogged or soggy.
Aphelandra squarrosa
spring to autumn; in winter, allow the top
to dry out between waterings. Mist the
leaves every day and set on a tray of damp TEMPERATURE 13–25°C (55–77°F)
fertilizer once a month.
pebbles, or install a room humidifier. LIGHT Filtered sun
HUMIDITY Moderate to high PLANTING AND CARE Plant in a 50:50
FEEDING Feed every 2–3 weeks from
CARE Challenging mix of soil-based and multipurpose
spring to early autumn with a balanced
HEIGHT & SPREAD 60 x 60cm composts and a 12.5–20cm (5–8in) pot.
liquid fertilizer.
(24 x 24in) Set in a lightly shaded area, well away
PLANTING AND CARE Grow in an from direct sun. Repot every 2–3 years
equal mix of composted bark, soil-based With dazzling striped green and in a container just one size larger than
compost and sand in a 25–30cm (8–10in) cream foliage, this plant is ideal for the original.
pot. Set in a bright area, out of direct sun a bathroom with high humidity. The
and draughts. Repot every 2–3 years. colourful autumn flowers are composed
of yellow bracts (modified petal-like
leaves) around small orange blooms.
WATERING Using rainwater or

distilled water, keep the compost
moist; dryness may cause leaf
drop. In winter, water when the top
of the compost is almost dry. Mist
daily and set on a tray of damp
pebbles, or install a humidifier.
FEEDING Apply a balanced
liquid fertilizer once every
2 weeks during spring and summer.
compost. Set in a bright spot, out of
direct sun. Remove faded flower stems,
and then prune to leave two sets of
leaves at the bottom of the stems to keep
plants compact. Repot annually in spring.
148
PAINTED LEAF BEGONIAS

Begonia species
TEMPERATURE 15–22°C (58–72°F) WATERING Keep the compost moist,

LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade but not wet, from spring to autumn;
HUMIDITY Moderate allow the top of the compost to dry out
CARE Fairly easy between waterings in winter. Stand on
HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 90 x 45cm a tray of damp pebbles, but do not mist
(36 x 18in) the leaves.
WARNING! The roots are toxic FEEDING Feed every 2 weeks from
late spring to early autumn with a high
Forget the flowery bedding plants nitrogen fertilizer. For begonias with
you see in summer; these demure larger flowers, switch to a high potash
beauties offer a completely different feed when the buds appear, and use
look. Celebrated for their decorative
this until the blooms fade.
patterned foliage and small elegant
flowers, there are hundreds of PLANTING AND CARE Choose a pot
colours and forms to choose from. that accommodates the plant’s root ball
Most are derived from the Begonia easily. Plant in a 50:50 mix of soil-based
rex species, which are also known as and multipurpose composts. Set in filtered Begonia ‘Rumba’
PLANT PROFILES
angel wing begonias because of the sun or light shade and keep away from
shape of their leaves. Taller cane
radiators and heaters in winter. Repot One of the many red-leaved Rex
types, such as the polka dot begonia,
when root-bound in spring. begonias, this elegant beauty has
add structure to an indoor display,
and have slightly large flowers. Plants rich, pink-red foliage with near-black
grow from tubers but most are for markings, and red undersides. Stand
sale as young plants. it in filtered sun for the best colours.
FOLIAGE PLANTS
Begonia ‘Escargot’ Begonia maculata Begonia soli-mutata
One of the Rex begonias, this popular Known as the polka dot begonia, this Few plants can beat this unusual
variety has green and silver leaves that large cane type is a real show-off, with begonia for leaf texture. While the dark
form a swirling pattern, like a snail’s its large green and white spotty leaves burgundy and bright green markings on
shell. The textured foliage is also and cascading trusses of small cream the heart-shaped foliage catch the eye,
covered with delicate pink hairs. flowers, which appear in summer. Its a closer inspection reveals the rough,
long stems will need staking. sandpaper-like surface.
149
CROTON
Codiaeum variegatum
TEMPERATURE 15–25°C (60–76°F) WATERING Keep the compost moist

LIGHT Filtered sun with tepid water from spring to autumn;
HUMIDITY High allow the top to dry out betwee waterings
CARE Challenging in winter. Set it on a tray of damp pebbles,
HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 1.5 x 0.75m but do not mist the leaves.
(5ft x 2ft 6in) FEEDING Apply a balanced liquid
WARNING! All parts are toxic fertilizer every 2 weeks from spring
to autumn.
The bright red, yellow, and green
spear-shaped or lobed leaves of PLANTING AND CARE Plant in soil-based
this potentially large shrub look best compost in a pot that will accommodate
when set centre stage against a neutral the root ball. Repot every 2–3 years. Set in
backdrop. Not the easiest plant to grow, bright filtered light, away from draughts
it demands high humidity and constant and heaters, and in constant warmth –
warmth – a bathroom would make an never below 15°C (60°F). Wearing gloves,
ideal home. trim to keep it to size.
NEVER-NEVER
PLANT
Ctenanthe burle-marxii

LIGHT Filtered sun
HUMIDITY Moderate
CARE Easy
(24 x 18in)
The never-never plant’s profusion of

striped dark and pale green leaves are
given an extra lift with a splash of red
on the undersides, lending a three-tone
effect. This undemanding, compact
plant adds a glamorous note to a
bright room.

from spring to autumn, but allow the
top of the compost to dry out between
waterings in winter. If the leaves roll up,
add more water. Mist occasionally or
stand on a tray of damp pebbles.
12.5–15cm (5–6in) pot in an equal mix
of soil-based and multipurpose composts.
Repot every 2–3 years when the plant
becomes root-bound.
150
DUMB CANE MADAGASCAR

Dieffenbachia seguine DRAGON TREE
Dracaena marginata
LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade TEMPERATURE 15–24°C (60–75°F)
HUMIDITY Moderate LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade
CARE Fairly easy HUMIDITY Low to moderate
HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to CARE Easy
1.5 x 1m (5 x 3ft) HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 1.5 x 0.9m
WARNING! All parts are toxic (5 x 3ft)
WARNING! All parts are toxic for pets
The huge, patterned leaves of the
dumb cane create an impressive The sprays of spiky leaves held on
feature in a large room or hallway woody stems lend this popular plant
in need of an eye-catching statement an attractive, palm-like appearance.
plant. The green, oval-shaped foliage Tall and stately, with green, pink, and
features a splash or spots of cream cream striped foliage, it is one of the
in the centre. best plants for removing toxins from
the air. It is also very easy to grow.
DRAGON PLANT
PLANT PROFILES
Dracaena fragrans
from spring to autumn, and just moist WATERING Keep the compost moist
in winter. Stand on a tray of damp from spring to autumn, and just moist
pebbles or mist occasionally. TEMPERATURE 15–24°C (60–75°F) in the winter.
FEEDING Apply a balanced liquid FEEDING Apply a half-strength balanced
fertilizer every month from spring liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks from spring
to autumn. CARE Easy to autumn.
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in soil- (4 x 3ft) PLANTING AND CARE Plant in soil-based
based compost in a pot that fits the WARNING! All parts are toxic for pets compost in a pot that will fit the root ball.
FOLIAGE PLANTS
root ball. Stand in filtered sun or light Prune the stems to limit the plant’s size.
shade; it will survive in gloomier spots A great choice for beginners looking Repot every 3 years or when root-bound.
but may not grow much. Wear gloves for a stalwart with foliage interest, the
when pruning as the sap is toxic. Repot dragon plant produces fountains of
when root-bound every 2–3 years. strappy, variegated leaves, which form
a rosette atop tall, cane-like stems on
mature plants. Choose from green
leaves with a yellow central stripe, or
foliage with green and yellow striped
edges and a dark green centre.

from spring to autumn, and just moist
in the winter. Mist occasionally or set
on a tray of damp pebbles.
2 weeks from spring to autumn.
compost in a pot large enough to hold
the root ball. Plants thrive best in filtered
sun or light shade, but also grow well
in lower light conditions. Cut the top of
the canes when they reach a desirable
height. Repot every 2–3 years.
151
WEEPING FIG
Ficus benjamina
TEMPERATURE 16–24°C (65–75°F) WATERING Use tepid rainwater or

LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade distilled water and allow the top of
HUMIDITY Moderate the compost to dry out between each
CARE Challenging watering. Keep just moist in winter.
HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 3.5 x 1.2m Mist the leaves in summer.
(10 x 4ft) FEEDING Apply a half-strength balanced
WARNING! All parts are poisonous liquid fertilizer once a month from spring
to autumn.
Tall and elegant, this plant should be
given space to show off its arching PLANTING AND CARE Plant in soil-based
compost in a pot that fits the root ball. Do
JAPANESE ARALIA stems of small green or variegated,
not move or repot plants, as this can lead
Fatsia japonica cream leaves. Not the easiest of plants,
it has a tendency to drop its leaves, to leaf drop. In spring, replace the top
but makes a striking focal point if layer of compost.
TEMPERATURE 10–25°C (60–76°F) you can provide the exact conditions
LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade it demands.
CARE Easy
HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 2 x 2m
(6 x 6ft)
The Japanese aralia is perfect

for a room in light shade, since
its large, glossy, hand-shaped
leaves thrive in low-light
conditions. Choose from
dark green or variegated
leaves – the latter will need
a little more light to retain
their colours. Spherical
cream flowers may appear
in autumn. This relatively
undemanding plant is a great
choice for beginners.
WATERING Keep the compost

moist from spring to autumn,
and just moist in the winter.
balanced liquid fertilizer
every 2 weeks from spring
to late summer.
large enough to accommodate the root
ball with an equal mix of soil-based and
ericaceous composts. Set in filtered sun
or light shade; move the plant to a cool
room in winter. Trim back to keep the
plant in check. Repot every 2–3 years.
152
INDIA RUBBER PLANT FIDDLE-LEAF FIG

Ficus elastica Ficus lyrata AGM

LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade LIGHT Filtered sun
HUMIDITY Low to moderate HUMIDITY Low to moderate
HEIGHT & SPREAD 1.8 x 1.2m (6 x 4ft) HEIGHT & SPREAD 1.8 x 1.2m (6 x 4ft)
WARNING! The sap is an irritant WARNING! The sap is an irritant
Popular for its broad, glossy, dark green leaves and The large, slightly lobed leaves of this tall, stately plant
easy-going nature, the India rubber plant brings a are shaped like a violin or fiddle, hence the name. They
tree-like shape to a group of smaller plants and tolerates also have distinctive pale veins and the stems sprout
low-light conditions. Rubber plants with variegated leaves from a sturdy, tree-like trunk. The plant is also available
will need more light, but all types are drought-tolerant. in the more compact ‘Bambino’ form.
WATERING Allow the top of the compost to dry out WATERING Allow the top of the compost to dry out
between waterings, and keep it just moist in winter. Mist between waterings from spring to autumn, and keep just
the leaves every few days in summer. moist in winter. Ensure you do not overwater the plant,
as the roots will rot in soggy conditions.
PLANT PROFILES
FEEDING Apply a half-strength balanced liquid fertilizer

every 2 weeks from spring to autumn. FEEDING Apply a half-strength balanced liquid fertilizer
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in soil-based compost with
some perlite for added drainage in a pot large enough PLANTING AND CARE Plant in a 3:1 mix of soil-based
to accommodate the root ball. Set in filtered sun or light compost and perlite in a pot that fits the root ball. Place in
shade, away from draughts. Prune to keep the plant size indirect light, away from direct sun and draughts. In winter,
in check. Repot every 2–3 years when root-bound. move it away from heaters. Repot every 2–3 years when
root-bound.
FOLIAGE PLANTS
153
ETERNAL FLAME
Goeppertia crocata AGM
(syn. Calathea crocata)

LIGHT Filtered sun
CARE Fairly easy
(24 x 24in)
The torch-like orange summer flowers

give this plant its name, but it can also
be grown for its colourful foliage, which
makes a feature in its own right. The
broad, oval-shaped, slightly wrinkled
leaves are green with a metallic
MOSAIC PLANT sheen on the upper sides and dark
Fittonia albivenis Verschaffeltii Group AGM burgundy beneath.

all year round, but guard against
LIGHT Filtered sun
waterlogging. Mist daily with tepid water,
RATTLESNAKE PLANT
HUMIDITY High Goeppertia lancifolia
and place on a tray of damp pebbles. (syn. Calathea lancifolia)
CARE Fairly easy
HEIGHT & SPREAD 15 x 20cm (6 x 8in) FEEDING From spring to early autumn,
apply a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly. TEMPERATURE 15–24°C (60–75°F)
The beautiful patterns on the foliage of PLANTING AND CARE Plant in soil-based LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade
the mosaic plant make a striking feature. HUMIDITY Moderate
compost in a medium-sized 12.5–15cm
It is small enough for any room, but
(5–6in) pot. Stand in a bright area out of CARE Fairly easy
demands high humidity so it is best
kept in a bathroom, kitchen, or terrarium. direct sunlight, and in a room with high HEIGHT & SPREAD 75 x 45cm
The dark or pale green leaves have humidity, such as a bathroom. Make (30 x 18in)
bright pink veins and make a good sure that winter temperatures do not
match for the aluminium plant (Pilea dip below 16°C (61°F). Repot every This plant’s star attraction is its dazzling,
cadierei), which is also small and 2–3 years or when root-bound. wavy-edge foliage, with its lime and dark
requires similar conditions. green snake-like markings on the upper
surfaces, and burgundy shading beneath.
WATERING Keep the compost moist A native of Brazil, it loves warm, humid
year-round but avoid waterlogging – conditions, so a bathroom or kitchen
would make an ideal home.
yellow leaves can indicate overwatering.
Mist the plant daily and place on a tray
of damp pebbles, or install a humidifier. WATERING Keep the compost moist with
rainwater or distilled water from spring to
autumn; allow the top of the compost to
balanced liquid fertilizer once a
dry out between waterings in winter. Mist
month from spring to autumn.
daily with tepid water and set on a tray
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in soil-based of damp pebbles, or install a humidifier.
compost in a small 7.5–10cm (3–4in) pot.
The mosaic plant thrives in bright filtered
liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks from spring
light, away from direct sun. Remove the
to autumn.
summer flowers to allow the plant to
focus on its leaves. It needs warmth and PLANTING AND CARE Use a 2:1 mix of
moisture year-round, and high levels of soil-based compost and perlite and plant
humidity to keep its leaves healthy. Repot in a 12.5–15cm (5–6in) pot. Stand in filtered
every 2–3 years when root-bound. light or a little shade, out of direct sun and
draughts. Keep warm all year round. Repot
every 2–3 years when root-bound.
154
VELVET PLANT
Gynura aurantiaca

LIGHT Filtered sun
HUMIDITY Moderate
CARE Fairly easy
The soft, velvety leaves of this compact

plant are simply irresistible and call
out to be touched. Fine purple hairs
cover the lobed, metallic-green foliage,
giving it a downy, two-tone appearance, POLKA DOT PLANT
while the leafy stems will trail elegantly Hypoestes phyllostachya AGM
over the sides of a pot.
PLANT PROFILES

PEACOCK PLANT WATERING Keep the compost moist
LIGHT Filtered sun
Goeppertia makoyana from spring to autumn, and only just
(syn. Calathea makoyana) AGM HUMIDITY Moderate
moist in winter. Avoid watering the
foliage, which should be kept dry. Set CARE Fairly easy
on a tray of damp pebbles but do not HEIGHT & SPREAD 25 x 25cm
mist, as this causes spots on the leaves. (10 x 10in)
HUMIDITY High FEEDING Apply a half-strength balanced Compact and colourful, this plant’s
CARE Challenging liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks from spring green, heart-shaped leaves are
FOLIAGE PLANTS
HEIGHT & SPREAD 60 x 60cm to autumn. speckled with pink, red, or cream
(24 x 24in) spots, although on many varieties they
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in an equal look more like splashes than the round
mix of multipurpose and soil-based polka dots suggested by the name. Try
The silver leaves of this crowd-pleaser
are impossible to overlook, with dark composts in a wide 15–20cm (6–8in) a few varieties in different colours in a
green brushstrokes on the upper pot. Set in filtered light, out of direct sun. terrarium or bottle garden. Small
surface and burgundy markings Pinch out the stem tips to create a bushier magenta flowers appear in summer.
beneath. While not the easiest to care plant, and the yellow flowers, which have
for, the plant’s striking appearance a rather unpleasant smell. Repot every
makes it well worth the effort. 2–3 years or when root-bound.
to autumn, and keep just moist in winter.
WATERING Use rainwater or distilled Stand on a tray of damp pebbles, or mist
water to keep the compost moist from the leaves every few days.
spring to autumn, and just moist in the
winter. Mist daily with tepid water and
place on a tray of damp pebbles, or
to autumn.
install a humidifier.
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in soil-
based compost in a 12.5–15cm
(5–6in) pot. Stand in bright,
2 weeks from spring to autumn.
filtered light, ideally in an area
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in a with high humidity, such as a bathroom
2:1 mix of soil-based compost and or kitchen. Pinch out the stem tips to
perlite in a 12.5–15cm (5–6in) pot. create a bushier plant. Repot every
Set in filtered light or some shade, 2–3 years or when the plant becomes
out of direct sun and draughts. Keep root-bound.
warm all year round. Repot every
2–3 years when root-bound.
155
PRAYER PLANT
Maranta leuconeura var. kerchoveana AGM

LIGHT Filtered sun
HUMIDITY Moderate
CARE Fairly easy
(24 x 24in)
It is difficult to believe that the intricately

decorated foliage of this spectacular
plant has not been painted by human
hands. The oval-shaped leaves feature
pale and dark green feathered patterns
and red veins on the surface, while the
undersides are dark red. To add to
its charms, the foliage folds up as if in
prayer at night, and unfolds at dawn.

from spring to autumn, and slightly
drier in winter. Stand on a tray of damp
pebbles and mist the foliage regularly. MONEY TREE
Pachira aquatica
to autumn. TEMPERATURE 12–24°C (54–75°F)
LIGHT Filtered sun
HUMIDITY Moderate
compost in a shallow 12.5–15cm (5–6in)
pot. Set in filtered light, out of direct sun CARE Fairly easy
and draughts. Repot every 2–3 years. HEIGHT & SPREAD 1.8 x 1.2m
(6 x 4ft)
Folklore says that growing this palm-like

plant will bring good fortune, and it
certainly delivers on looks, if not money.
The slim stems are often plaited, and
the large glossy foliage is divided into
leaflets that splay out from a central
point like giant green flower petals.
WATERING Water from spring to autumn

when the top of the compost is dry; keep
just moist in winter. Mist every few days
or set on a tray of damp pebbles.
to autumn.
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in
soil-based compost with some perlite
in a 20–25cm (8–10in) pot. Stand in
filtered light, out of direct sun. To keep
the plant compact, pinch out the stem
tips. Replace the top layer of compost
annually rather than repotting.
156
RADIATOR PLANT
Peperomia caperata

LIGHT Light shade
CARE Fairly easy
(10 x 10in)
Also known as the

emerald ripple plant,
this peperomia’s heart-
shaped red or green foliage
has an intricately corrugated texture
that produces a beautiful two-tone
effect when it catches the light. The
long, thin, cream summer flowers look
like candlewicks shooting out from
WATERMELON the foliage.
PEPPER XANADU
PLANT PROFILES
Peperomia argyreia WATERING Allow the top of the compost PHILODENDRON

to dry out between waterings from spring Philodendron xanadu
TEMPERATURE 15–24°C (60–75°F) to autumn. Keep the compost almost
LIGHT Light shade dry over winter. Set on a tray of damp
HUMIDITY Moderate pebbles, but do not mist the foliage.
LIGHT Light shade/Shade
CARE Fairly easy FEEDING Apply a half-strength balanced HUMIDITY Moderate
HEIGHT & SPREAD 20 x 20cm liquid fertilizer once a month from spring CARE Easy
(8 x 8in) to autumn. HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 1 x 1.2m
FOLIAGE PLANTS
PLANTING AND CARE Grow in soil- (3 x 4ft)

Held on slim red stalks, the striped
based compost mixed with a handful WARNING! All parts are poisonous
silver and dark green foliage of this
elegant plant looks like the skin of a of perlite in a small 10cm (4in) pot.
Set in a lightly shaded area with high The bold, lobed foliage of this leafy
watermelon, and it makes a beautiful
humidity, such as a bathroom or philodendron will add a touch of class
focal point in the centre of a table.
to a shady corner or hallway where
Despite its glamorous looks, it is quite kitchen. Repot every 2–3 years when
a bulky plant is needed. Its fountain
easy to care for and remains compact. root-bound.
of glossy, dark green leaves, which
can grow up to 45cm (18in) in length,
WATERING Allow the top of the forms a compact dome.
from spring to autumn, and keep it
almost dry over winter. Set on a tray
from spring to autumn; allow the top
of damp pebbles, or mist the leaves
every few days.
Mist the leaves every few days or set
FEEDING Apply a half-strength on a tray of damp pebbles.
based potting compost in a 10–12.5cm
compost in a large pot that will fit the root
(4–5in) pot. Set in light shade in summer,
ball. Keep away from direct sun. Wipe the
and a bright area in winter when light
surface of the leaves with a damp cloth
levels are lower, but out of direct sun.
every few weeks to remove dust and keep
Replenish the top of the compost
the plant looking its best. Repot every
annually. Repot every 3 years, as it
2–3 years or when root-bound.
prefers to be root-bound.
157
ALUMINIUM PLANT BRAZILIAN COLEUS

Pilea cadierei AGM Plectranthus oertendahlii AGM

LIGHT Light shade LIGHT Light shade/Shade
HUMIDITY Moderate HUMIDITY Low
(12 x 10in) (8 x 24in)
Grown for its handsome, rough,
The lacy, aluminium-silver markings silver-veined foliage and spires
on the foliage of this pretty little plant of small white spring flowers, the lax
give it its name, while an easy-going stems of this easy-care plant make it a
nature make it a good choice for good choice for a tall pot. It thrives in
beginners. Use it to add sparkle to a light shade, but will also grow happily in
leafy collection in a lightly shaded room. gloomier positions, adding colour and
texture to rooms without any direct sun.
from spring to autumn; allow the top WATERING Allow the top of the compost
of the compost to dry out between
MISSIONARY PLANT to dry out between waterings from spring
Pilea peperomioides AGM
waterings in winter. Mist regularly. to autumn. In winter, keep the compost
just moist.
fertilizer every 2 weeks from spring FEEDING Apply a half-strength balanced
to autumn. liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks from spring
HUMIDITY Moderate
to autumn.
PLANTING AND CARE Use a 2:1 mix CARE Fairly easy
of soil-based compost and perlite and HEIGHT & SPREAD 30 x 30cm PLANTING AND CARE Use a 2:1 mix
plant in a 12.5–15cm (5–6in) pot. Stand (12 x 12in) of soil-based compost and perlite and
in little shade, out of direct sunlight and WARNING! All parts are toxic plant in a 12.5–15cm (5–6in) pot. Set
keep the plant warm year-round. Pinch in light shade, out of direct sun. Repot
out the flower buds on the stem tips to Balanced on the stems like spinning every 2–3 years when root-bound.
keep the plant bushy. Repot every year plates, the round leaves of this unusual
or two when root-bound. plant create an intriguing display,
elevating it to the top of many
plant collectors’ wish lists. The
loose dome of leaves looks great
on a windowsill or table in a lightly
shaded spot.

to autumn; keep it just moist in winter.
Mist the foliage regularly.
to autumn.
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in a 2:1 mix
of soil-based compost and perlite in a
12.5–15cm (5–6in) pot. Stand in light
shade, out of direct sun and away from
draughts. Keep the plant warm all year
round, and repot every 1–2 years in
spring when it is root-bound.
158
AFRICAN SPEAR
Sansevieria cylindrica
TEMPERATURE 15–24°C (60–75°F) WATERING Allow the top of the compost

LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade to dry out between waterings from spring
HUMIDITY Low to autumn; water once a month in winter.
CARE Easy FEEDING Apply a half-strength balanced
HEIGHT & SPREAD 75 x 30cm liquid fertilizer once a month from spring
(30 x 12in) to autumn.
PLANTING AND CARE Use a cactus
Like its cousin the snake plant, the compost and plant in a pot that will only
African spear will also help to purify just fit the roots; it likes to be cramped.
the air, and it is equally easy to care for. Set out of direct sun; it tolerates some
Its tall, slim, cylindrical leaves look like shade, but the spears may stretch to the
javelins, and the grey-green banding light. Repot only when tightly root-bound.
on the leaves adds to the decorative
effect. Position the plant where the
CHINA DOLL brittle foliage will not get broken off.
PLANT
Radermachera sinica AGM
PLANT PROFILES

LIGHT Filtered sun
CARE Fairly easy
(4 x 6ft)
FOLIAGE PLANTS
This handsome plant will fill an empty

corner in a bright room with its elegant
leafy stems. The glossy foliage is rich
green in colour and divided up into
small leaflets, which lend this tree-like
plant a light, airy look.
WATERING From spring to early

autumn, water when the top of the
compost feels dry. Reduce watering
in winter so the compost is just moist.
Mist occasionally.
balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks
based compost in a pot that will
accommodate the root ball. Stand in
bright filtered light, out of direct sun.
Prune in spring to keep it to size, and
pinch out stem tips. Repot this fast-
growing plant every 2 years.
159
DWARF
UMBRELLA TREE
Schefflera arboricola AGM

CARE Easy
HEIGHT & SPREAD 2.4 x 1.2m
(8 x 4ft)
This impressive plant is loved for its

hand-shaped green or variegated leaves
and its ability to grow in centrally heated
homes in sun or shade. Plants are often
sold with their stems tied to a mossy pole.

COLEUS
VARIEGATED to autumn; water once a month in winter.
Solenostemon scutellarioides hybrids
SNAKE PLANT
Sansevieria trifasciata var. laurentii AGM FEEDING Apply a half-strength balanced
liquid fertilizer every month from spring
LIGHT Filtered sun
to autumn.
TEMPERATURE 15–24°C (60–75°F) HUMIDITY Moderate
LIGHT Light shade PLANTING AND CARE Plant in a heavy CARE Fairly easy
HUMIDITY Low pot that will fit the root ball, in 2:1 mix HEIGHT & SPREAD 60 x 30cm
CARE Easy of soil-based compost and sand. Keep (24 x 12in)
HEIGHT & SPREAD 75 x 30cm out of direct sun in a warm room. Prune WARNING! All parts toxic to pets
in spring, and repot every 2 years.
(30 x 12in)
WARNING! All parts are toxic With a huge choice of leaf shapes and
colours – from lime green and lipstick
One of the best plants for purifying the pink to brooding burgundy, burnt orange,
air, the snake plant – or mother-in-law’s and everything in between – there is a
tongue as it is also known – produces coleus to suit any design scheme. The
a tight cluster of green and silver fancy foliage makes a great partner for
sword-like foliage with a yellow trim. plain-leaved plants, or use some of the
Thriving on neglect (overwatering will muted colours as foils for flowers.
rot it), this plant is almost bullet-proof.
WATERING Allow the top of the compost from spring to autumn; allow the top
to dry out between waterings from spring of the compost to dry out between
to autumn; water once a month in winter. waterings in winter.
FEEDING Apply a half-strength balanced FEEDING Apply a balanced liquid
liquid fertilizer once a month from spring fertilizer every 2 weeks from spring
to autumn. to autumn.
PLANTING AND CARE Use a cactus PLANTING AND CARE Grow in an equal
compost and plant in a pot that will just mix of multipurpose and soil-based
accommodate the roots – it likes a snug composts in a 15cm (6in) pot. Pinch out
fit. Set in light shade, out of direct sun. the stem tips to keep it bushy. Set in
Repot only when tightly root-bound. a bright position, out of direct sunlight.
Prune the stems back by two-thirds in late
winter or early spring, or grow from seed
every spring (see pp208–09).
160
STROMANTHE BOAT LILY

Stromanthe sanguinea ‘Triostar’ Tradescantia spathacea

LIGHT Filtered sun LIGHT Filtered sun
HUMIDITY High HUMIDITY Moderate
(18 x 24in) (24 x 24in)
A jewel among foliage plants, few The boat lily’s green and purple
can compete with the stromanthe’s sword-shaped leaves make an
striking leaves, splashed with shades eye-catching bouquet. Small, white
of pink, red, green, and cream. It flowers appear throughout the year,
needs space to show off its spreading, nestled between the leaves, but the star
spear-shaped foliage, and is best attraction is the foliage. This compact
displayed in a plain container that plant will thrive in the humidity in a
complements, but does not compete small bathroom or kitchen.
with, its dazzling hues. GOOSEFOOT PLANT
Syngonium podophyllum AGM
PLANT PROFILES
WATERING Keep the compost moist to dry out between waterings from spring
from spring to summer, and water less TEMPERATURE 15–29 ºC (60–85ºF) to autumn; keep it just moist in winter.
frequently in winter. Mist daily, and set LIGHT Filtered sun/Light shade Mist every day or two, or set on a tray
on a tray of damp pebbles, or install HUMIDITY Moderate of damp pebbles.
a room humidifier. CARE Fairly easy FEEDING Apply a balanced liquid
FEEDING Apply a half-strength HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 90 x 60cm fertilizer once a month from spring
balanced liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks (3 x 2ft) to autumn.
from spring to late autumn. WARNING! All parts are toxic
FOLIAGE PLANTS
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in an equal The arrow-shaped, cream, and green 2:1 mix of soil-based compost and
mix of multipurpose and soil-based variegated foliage of the goosefoot sand or perlite in a 15–20cm (6–8in) pot.
composts in a 12.5–15cm (5–6in) pot – plant will add a jungly note to a foliage Set in a bright spot, out of direct sun
shallow containers are ideal. Stand the display in a bright or lightly shaded it tolerates some shade, but may lose
plant in a bright spot, out of direct sun room. It is usually sold as a compact its purple tones. Repot every 2–3 years.
and draughts, ideally in a kitchen or foliage plant, but, if left to its own
bathroom. Repot every 2–3 years. devices, it will grow tall and may need
tying onto a support if it starts to climb.

to dry out between waterings from
spring to late autumn; reduce
watering slightly in winter. Mist leaves
regularly or set on a tray of damp pebbles.
liquid fertilizer every 2 weeks from
spring to autumn.
compost in a 15–20cm (6–8in) pot. It will
thrive in a bright spot out of direct sun,
ideally in a humid area, such as a kitchen
or bathroom. Prune every year in spring
to keep it compact and bushy, and when
it reaches an ideal size, do not repot, but
replace the top layer of the compost
annually in spring.
161
FERN ARUM
Zamioculcas zamiifolia

HUMIDITY Low
CARE Easy
(30 x 24in)
The long, leafy stems of the fern arum

form a large, vase-shaped plant that will
grow almost anywhere, as it tolerates
both sun and shade, and low levels of
humidity. Perfect for beginners, the
glossy foliage makes a good foil for more
SPINELESS YUCCA glamorous leaves and flowers.
Yucca elephantipes AGM
from spring to autumn; water once a
month in winter.
HUMIDITY Low
CARE Easy FEEDING Apply a
HEIGHT & SPREAD 1.5 x 0.75m half-strength balanced
(5 x 2ft 6in) liquid fertilizer once a month
WARNING! All parts toxic to pets from spring to autumn.
One of the few plants that will 2:1 mix of soil-based compost and sand
bask happily in full summer sun, in a pot that fits the root ball. Light shade
this yucca’s spiky, sword-like
or filtered sun is ideal, but it will also grow
foliage grows froma palm-like
in gloomier spots. Trim in spring to create
trunk, forming a dramatic sculptural
shape that makes a bold statement a good shape. Repot every 2–3 years.
in a sunny room.

from spring to autumn; water once a
month in winter.
balanced liquid fertilizer once
a month from spring to autumn.
PLANTING AND CARE
Plant in a 2:1 mix of
soil-based and sand
in a pot that fits the
root ball. If it grows too big,
cut the trunk to size in spring;
new foliage will soon appear.
Repot every 2–3 years.
162
CACTI
PLANT PROFILES
OLD MAN CACTUS

Cephalocereus senilis
From the spiky and wonderfully weird, TEMPERATURE 10–32°C (50–90°F)

to elegant trailers with smooth stems, cacti LIGHT Sun/Filtered sun in summer
HUMIDITY Low
are technically succulents, but are usually
CACTI
CARE Easy
considered to belong in their own distinct
Covered in fine white hairs that resemble
category. Many are perfect for a sunny an old man’s beard, this cactus’ weird
appearance is guaranteed to create
windowsill display or simple hanging basket, a talking point. The tall, unbranched
columnar stems grow in clusters, and
and their ability to store water in their leaves the silvery hairs are most prevalent on
young plants. The cactus’ red, yellow,
and stems, allowing them to survive extended or white flowers rarely appear.
periods of drought, makes them ideal for
WATERING Allow the top 1–2cm (1⁄2–3⁄4in)
beginners. Not all are desert dwellers, and of compost to dry out completely between
waterings. In winter, reduce watering to
a few, including the Christmas cactus (see once or twice during the season.
p165), live naturally on trees in tropical forests FEEDING Apply a fertilizer for cacti once
and require shadier conditions and humidity. a month in spring and summer.
PLANTING AND CARE Wearing protective
gloves, plant in a small 10cm (4in) pot
in cactus compost (or in an equal mix of
soil-based compost, sand, and perlite).
Set in sun, but move to a cool but bright
room (unheated if possible) in winter. Repot
young plants annually in spring, and mature
cacti every 2 years.
163
PERUVIAN FISHBONE CACTUS

APPLE CACTUS Epiphyllum anguliger
Cereus forbesii
HUMIDITY Moderate
CARE Fairly easy
HUMIDITY Low
CARE Easy
(24 x 24in)
(36 x 6in) The mound of wavy-edged leaves,
which dangle from the plant like fat fish
This plant’s classic cactus bones, have pushed this unusual plant
shape and form makes it a to the top of many a cactus-lover’s wish
great addition to a collection, list. The fragrant, pale yellow flowers
creating height and structure at add to its charms in autumn.
the back of a display. The grey-green
stems are covered with brown spines,
and in summer they bear large, scented WATERING Water regularly from spring
white or pink flowers up to 15cm (6in) to early autumn, allowing the top of the
in diameter, which open at night and compost dry out between waterings.
close at dawn. Keep plants just moist in winter. Mist daily
ORCHID CACTUS or stand on a tray of damp pebbles.
Disocactus flagelliformis AGM
WATERING Water when the top 1cm FEEDING In summer, when the flower
(1⁄2in) of compost is dry. Water once or buds form, apply a high potash fertilizer
twice in winter when the plant is dormant. TEMPERATURE 4–24°C (40–75°F) every 2 weeks until the blooms open.
LIGHT Filtered sun
FEEDING Apply a cactus fertilizer once PLANTING AND CARE Plant this cactus
HUMIDITY Moderate
a month in summer. in a 10–15cm (4–6in) pot or basket in
CARE Fairly easy
epiphytic cactus compost (or a mix
PLANTING AND CARE Wearing HEIGHT & SPREAD 60 x 60cm (24 x 24in)
of 4:1 mix of soil-based compost and
protective gloves, plant in a heavy With its flat, thin, scallop-edged stems, sharp sand). Keep the plant at 16–25°C
15–20cm (6–8in) pot to prevent the plant this tropical cactus is ideal for a hanging (61–77°F) from spring to autumn.
toppling over, in cactus compost (or an basket in a bright room. In spring, the In winter, move to a cool, shady
equal mix of soil-based sand, compost, plant’s large, red, funnel-shaped flowers
place at 11–14°C (52–57°F);
and perlite). Set in the sun, but move to a are the real stars of the show.
this will encourage flowering.
cool, bright room in winter. Repot young
Repot young plants annually
plants annually, and then every 2 years. WATERING Water regularly from spring
in spring; just replenish the
to early autumn, allowing the top of the
compost of mature plants.
compost dry out between waterings.
Keep plants just moist in winter. Mist
occasionally with distilled or rainwater
during hot summers.
FEEDING Apply a half-strength, high
potash fertilizer once every two weeks
from spring to summer.
10cm (4in) pot or basket in epiphytic
cactus compost (or a mix of 4:1 mix of
soil-based compost and sharp sand).
Ideally, keep this cactus in filtered sun
and between 16–24ºC (60–75ºF) in the
day and 4–12ºC (40–55ºF) at night from
spring to autumn. In winter, move it to a
shady cool room, bringing it back into a
lighter position in spring. Plants flower
best when root-bound, so do not repot.
164
PINCUSHION
CACTUS
Mammillaria species
TEMPERATURE 7–30°C (45–86°F) WATERING Allow the top 2cm (3⁄4in) of

LIGHT Sun/Filtered sun in summer compost to dry out between waterings
HUMIDITY Low from spring to autumn. Water just once or
CARE Easy twice in winter when the plant is dormant.
HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 15 x 30cm FEEDING Apply with a cactus fertilizer
(6 x 8in) for most species every 3–4 weeks from mid-spring to
late summer.
These diminutive cacti are popular
house plants, with most fitting neatly PLANTING AND CARE Wearing protective
on a sunny windowsill and flowering gloves, plant in a small 7.5–10cm (3–4in) pot
regularly in summer. They are round in cactus compost (or a mix of 3:1:1 mix of
or form short columns, and have tiny soil-based compost, sand, and perlite). Set
spines along ridges or on top of the on a sunny windowsill, but move the cactus
little bumps that cover the surface of away from the window in midsummer. In
most of these cacti. Pink, purple, orange, winter, set it a cool, bright, unheated room
DEVIL’S TONGUE or cream flowers form a ring at the top with low humidity. Repot young plants
PLANT PROFILES
Ferocactus latispinus AGM of the plant in summer.

annually, and mature plants every 2 years.

HUMIDITY Low
CARE Easy
(10 x 10in)
CACTI
This spiky barrel-shaped cactus has

great stage presence. The plump
round stem is covered with thick, red,
hooked spines, which give the plant its
name, and needle-like cream spines
that combine to form a ball of colourful
spikes. Purple or yellow flowers appear
in late summer on mature plants.
WATERING Allow the top 2cm (3⁄4in) of

from spring to autumn. Water just once
or twice in winter. Mammillaria polythele f. nuda
FEEDING Apply a cactus fertilizer every
3–4 weeks from spring to late summer. Small and columnar, this little cactus
PLANTING AND CARE Wearing has the typical knobbly appearance of
protective gloves, plant in a pot large most pincushion cacti. Its pink flowers
appear over a long period from spring
enough to stabilize the cactus. Plant
to summer.
in cactus compost (or a mix of 3:1:1
mix of soil-based compost, sand, and
perlite). Set on a sunny windowsill, Mammillaria saboae subsp. haudeana
moving the plant away from the window
a little in midsummer. In winter, move
to a cool, bright, unheated room. Repot This unusual variety produces small
young plants annually, and mature round stems from a larger central
ribbed stem. The pink flowers appear
plants every 2 years.
in summer like shooting stars.
165
GOLDEN BALL
CACTUS
Parodia leninghausii AGM
TEMPERATURE 10–30°C
(50–86°F)
in summer
HUMIDITY Low
CARE Easy
HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 45 x
15cm (18 x 6in)
This plant creates a mini

desert scene with its clusters
of compact prickly stems.
Its common name can be
confusing because mature
plants have a columnar rather
than ball shape, and it may also be
BUNNY EARS labelled as Notocactus rather than
CACTUS Parodia. Bright yellow flowers appear
Opuntia microdasys AGM on a woolly crown in summer on
mature plants.
CHRISTMAS CACTUS
TEMPERATURE 10–30°C WATERING Water from spring to autumn Schlumbergera × bridgesii
(50–86°F) only when the top 2cm (3⁄4in) of compost
LIGHT Sun/Filtered sun has dried out. Water just once or twice in
in summer TEMPERATURE 12–27°C (54–80°F)
winter when the plant is dormant.
HUMIDITY Low LIGHT Filtered sun
FEEDING Apply a cactus fertilizer every HUMIDITY Moderate
CARE Easy
6–8 weeks from spring to late summer. CARE Fairly easy
(12 x 18in) PLANTING AND CARE Wearing HEIGHT & SPREAD 45 x 45cm
protective gloves, plant in a 7.5–15cm (18 x 18in)
This pretty cactus produces oval-shaped, (3–6in) pot, depending on the size of the
flattened green stems dotted with clusters cactus. Add a layer of grit to the pot and Prized for its bright pink flowers, which
of tiny bristle-like spines (“glochids”) open up at Christmas time, this tropical
top up with cactus compost (or a mix of
that grow in pairs to resemble rabbits’ cactus also produces flat, segmented
3:1:1 mix of soil-based compost, sand,
ears. In summer, yellow bowl-shaped trailing stems all year round.
and perlite). Place in sun but keep out of
flowers appear. direct sun in summer. Move to a bright
WATERING Keep the compost moist, but
but cool room in winter. Repot young
not wet. Reduce watering for a few weeks
WATERING Water weekly from spring plants annually, and then every 2 years.
after flowering in late winter when the
to early autumn, allowing the compost to
plant rests, and again from mid-autumn
dry out between waterings. Water once
until buds develop in early winter. Mist
or twice in winter when dormant.
daily with distilled or rainwater, or place
FEEDING Apply a cactus fertilizer every on a saucer of damp pebbles.
6–8 weeks from spring to early autumn.
PLANTING AND CARE Wearing gloves, monthly from mid-spring to early autumn.
plant in a pot that will not restrict the
cactus’ roots, and use a cactus compost
pot in cactus compost (or a 3:1:1 mix of
(or a mix of 3:1:1 mix of soil-based
soil-based compost, leafmould, and grit).
compost, sand, and perlite). Stand in
After flowering, move to a cool room;
a bright spot away from direct sun in
then increase the temperature, and water
summer, and in a cool room in winter.
and feed it during the growing seasons.
Repot young plants annually, and
Repot in early spring.
mature plants every 2 years.
166
SUCCULENTS
PLANT PROFILES
PINWHEEL
Aeonium haworthii AGM
These drought-lovers are grown mainly for TEMPERATURE 10–24°C (50–75°F)

their striking foliage, which comes in all LIGHT Sun/Filtered sun
HUMIDITY Low
shapes and sizes, from tall and spiky to small,
SUCCULENTS
CARE Easy
round, and velvety. The flowers, if they appear, HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 60 x 45cm
(24 x 18in)
are often a surprise, their bright colours
This sculptural succulent adds height
providing a vivid contrast to the fleshy leaves. and character to a mixed display on
a windowsill. The branched stems are
Succulents are easy to grow, and because topped with rosettes of grey-green
fleshy leaves, and in late spring, small
their foliage acts as the perfect water-storage pale yellow or pink-tinged flowers rise
unit, they can suffer long periods of neglect. up above the foliage. Look out for
variegated types, too, which feature
Just give them a sunny position and water yellow and pink-edged leaves.
them very occasionally to keep them happy.

WATERING Water from autumn to spring
when the top of the compost feels dry;
keep the soil almost dry in summer, when
the plant may go dormant in hot periods.
liquid fertilizer once a month from winter
to late spring.
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in a 15cm
(6in) pot in cactus compost. Display in
bright, filtered light, out of direct sun in
summer. After flowering, the leafy rosette
will die, but new stems will grow to replace
it. Repot every 2–3 years in spring.
167
BLACK AEONIUM
Aeonium ‘Zwartkop’ AGM

QUEEN VICTORIA
LIGHT Sun/Filtered sun CENTURY PLANT
Agave victoriae-reginae AGM
HUMIDITY Low
CARE Easy
HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 60 x 60cm TEMPERATURE -5–30°C (23–86°F)
(2 x 2ft) LIGHT Sun/Filtered sun
HUMIDITY Low
One of the most sought-after aeoniums, CARE Easy
this statuesque variety features rosettes HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 60 x 60cm
of dark purple, almost black, leaves
(2 x 2ft)
on tall, branching stems. In early spring,
mature plants bear small, starry, yellow WARNING! The sap is toxic
flowers. Grow it as a house plant all year
The thick, triangular leaves of this agave
round, or on a patio outside in summer. AMERICAN ALOE have white edges and black tips, which
Agave americana AGM you only notice on close inspection,
WATERING Water from autumn to spring so display where these details can be
when the top of the compost feels dry; admired. An easy-care succulent, its
keep the soil almost dry in summer when textural dome of leaves makes a great
it may go dormant in hot weather. partner for echeverias, aeoniums and
HUMIDITY Low houseleeks (Sempervivum).
FEEDING Apply a half-strength balanced CARE Easy
liquid fertilizer once a month from winter HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 90 x 90cm WATERING Water from autumn to spring
to late spring. (3 x 3ft) when the top of the compost feels dry;
PLANTING AND CARE Grow in cactus WARNING! The sap is toxic in winter, allow the compost to dry out,
compost in a 15cm (6in) pot. Set in bright watering just once or twice.
light, out of direct summer sun. The leafy In arid areas, this spiky plant grows
into a huge, impressive plant, gracing FEEDING Apply a half-strength balanced
rosette will die after flowering, but new
parks and landscapes with its spiny liquid fertilizer 2–3 times during the
plants will grow to replace the old one.
blue leaves, each sporting a white stripe growing period from spring to autumn.
Repot every 2–3 years in spring.
down the centre. Grown indoors in a
pot, it will remain more compact, but PLANTING AND CARE Plant in cactus
can still form a large plant, so give its compost in a pot that just fits the root ball.
spreading leaves space to shine. Stand in full sun or bright filtered light on
a deep windowsill. Repot every 2–3 years
or when root-bound.
WATERING Water from autumn to spring
when the top of the compost feels dry;
keep almost dry through winter.
liquid every 2 weeks from early spring to
early autumn.
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in cactus
compost in a pot that will just fit the root
ball. Stand in full sun or bright filtered
light. Repot every 1–2 years, wearing
gloves to protect your hands. To keep
it compact, remove the plant from its
pot and trim the roots, then repot it with
replenished compost in the either the
same sized pot or one a size larger.
168
JADE PLANT
Crassula ovata AGM

HUMIDITY Low
CARE Easy
HEIGHT & SPREAD 90 x 90cm (3 x 3ft)
WARNING! The sap is toxic
Sometimes known as a money tree, due

its association with wealth and prosperity
in some Asian cultures, this plant
is also renowned for being almost
indestructible, soldiering on through
extended periods of neglect. Mature
plants look like beautiful bonsai trees,
with their thick, branched stems and
PLANT PROFILES
fleshy, oval-shaped, red-edged leaves.

between waterings. In winter, water just
enough to prevent the leaves shrivelling.
liquid fertilizer 2–3 times during the
growing period from spring to autumn.
SUCCULENTS
PLANTING AND CARE Wearing gloves,

plant in a 15–20cm (6–8in) pot in a 3:1
mix of soil-based compost and sharp
sand. Repot every 2–3 years in spring.
BARBADOS ALOE
Aloe vera AGM
TEMPERATURE 10–27°C (50–80°F) WATERING From spring to autumn,

LIGHT Sun/Filtered sun allow the top of the compost to dry
HUMIDITY Low out between waterings. In winter,
CARE Easy keep the compost almost dry.
HEIGHT & SPREAD 60 x 60cm (2 x 2ft) FEEDING Apply a half-strength
balanced liquid fertilizer 2–3 times
Some people grow this architectural
during the growing period from
aloe for its handsome, spiky green
leaves, but its benefits go far beyond spring to autumn.
aesthetic appeal. One of the best PLANTING AND CARE Plant in cactus
plants for purifying the air, the sap compost in a pot that just fits the root ball.
from aloe leaves can also be used Stand in bright filtered light, out of direct
to soothe burns, including sunburn. sun in summer. Repot every 2–3 years
in spring, and pot up baby offsets that
appear next to the parent plant.
169
ECHEVERIA
Echeveria species
TEMPERATURE 10–30°C (50–86°F) WATERING From spring to autumn,

LIGHT Sun/Filtered sun allow the top of the compost to dry
HUMIDITY Low out between waterings; do not water
CARE Easy in winter when dormant.
HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 10 x 30cm FEEDING Apply a half-strength balanced
(4 x 12in) liquid fertilizer 2–3 times during the
Like tiny water lilies, these beautiful
little succulents form tight rosettes of PLANTING AND CARE Grow echeverias
spoon-shaped, blue-green, red, purple, in a 10–20cm (4–8in) pot in a 3:1 mix
or variegated leaves. Line up a few with of soil-based compost and sharp sand.
different colours and forms (there are Stand in bright filtered light, out of direct
hundreds to choose from) on a sunny sun in summer, and in a cool, sunny area Echeveria agavoides ‘Taurus’
windowsill, or include them as part of in winter when dormant. Repot every
a group of contrasting succulents. If 2–3 years in spring or when root-bound.
grown in sufficient light, mature plants Baby plantlets often appear beside the Also sold as ‘Red Taurus’, this beautiful
produce tall pink or yellow stems that
parent plant, and can be left as they are form produces a dark, burgundy-red
rise up from the centre of the rosette,
to increase the size of the group, or potted leaf rosette and in summer, red and
topped with lantern-shaped flowers.
on separately in a container of their own. yellow flowers appear on tall stems.
Echeveria secunda var. glauca
Echeveria elegans AGM This handsome species has pale blue-

grey leaves, flatter than most echeverias,
which form a beautiful textural rosette.
One of the most popular echeverias, this elegant species has
Long yellow stems of dainty red and
blue-green leaves with burgundy edges, and, in summer, it
yellow flowers appear in summer.
produces long pink stems topped with pink and yellow flowers.
170
TENDER EUPHORBIA
Euphorbia species

HUMIDITY Low
CARE Easy
(3 x 2ft)
WARNING! The sap is toxic
To define the group of plants known

as euphorbias is impossible, as it
includes a vast number of disparate
species of various sizes and shapes.
Those grown as house plants include
the stocky African milk tree and many
cactus-like plants, including the weird,
leafless pencil cactus. These plants thrive
CHIHUAHUA FLOWER
Graptopetalum bellum AGM
in sun and tolerate periods of drought.
PLANT PROFILES
WATERING Water from spring to TEMPERATURE 10–27°C (50–80°F)

autumn, allowing the top of the Euphorbia tirucalli LIGHT Sun/Filtered sun
compost to dry out between waterings; HUMIDITY Low
in winter, keep the compost almost dry. The pencil cactus looks like a deciduous CARE Easy
shrub in winter. Its small foliage soon HEIGHT & SPREAD 15 x 10cm (6 x 4in)
drops off to reveal a gaunt silhouette
balanced liquid fertilizer once a
of smooth, tactile stems. This little plant’s tight rosette of white-
month from spring to autumn.
rimmed, grey leaves might not look
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in a pot like much to write home about, but
SUCCULENTS
that fits the root ball in cactus compost that all changes when its showy flowers
(or a 2:1 mix of soil-based compost and make their appearance. The starry pink
horticultural grit). Set in full sun. Wear blooms, which are said to resemble little
gloves when handling plants – the sap dogs’ faces, shoot out from the centre of
is a skin irritant. Repot every 2–3 years. the rosette on long, branched stems like
tiny fireworks. Group a few together
on a sunny shelf to intensify the effect.
WATERING Water from spring to autumn,

allowing the top of the compost to dry
out between waterings; in winter, water
just enough to prevent the compost from
completely drying out.
liquid fertilizer 2–3 times during the
10–12.5cm (4–5in) pot in cactus compost
(or a 2:1 mix of soil-based compost and
horticultural grit). Stand in full sun, or
bright filtered light close to a window.
Euphorbia enopla Euphorbia trigona This plant grows slowly and will only need
repotting every 3 years when root-bound.
Disguised as a cactus, the pincushion The African milk tree’s impressive,
euphorbia plant produces ribbed spiny, dark green stems mimic those
grey-green branched stems up to 30cm of a cactus. The finger-like leaves which
(12in) in height, covered in red spines. sprout from them add to its appeal.
171
FLOWER DUST PLANT

Kalanchoe pumila AGM
HAWORTHIA
Haworthia attenuata ’Striata’ TEMPERATURE 10–27°C (50–80°F)
TEMPERATURE 12–26°C (54–79°F) HUMIDITY Low
LIGHT Sun/Filtered sun CARE Easy
HUMIDITY Low HEIGHT & SPREAD 45 x 45cm
CARE Easy (18 x 18in)
HEIGHT & SPREAD Up to 20 x 15cm WARNING! All parts toxic to pets
(8 x 6in)
There are many types of Kalanchoe,
but if you have space for only one, this
The spiky stems of this succulent make should be at the top of your list. The
a striking contrast with more rounded powdery-white leaves have serrated
succulents as part of a windowsill edges that look like they have been cut
display. Some sport white raised stripes with pinking shears, and in summer it
or spotty reddish bumps, which add to bursts into bloom, bearing clusters of
haworthia’s rich texture, while slender small, starry pink flowers on slim stems.
stems of long tubular white flowers may
appear on mature plants in the summer. FLAMING KATY WATERING From spring to summer,
Kalanchoe blossfeldiana AGM
water from the bottom when the top of
the compost feels dry; keep the compost
TEMPERATURE 12–26°C (54–80°F) almost dry through autumn and winter.
between waterings. In winter, water
sparingly, just preventing the compost FEEDING Apply a half-strength balanced
HUMIDITY Low
from completely drying out. liquid fertilizer every month from spring
CARE Easy to late summer.
FEEDING Apply a half-strength balanced HEIGHT & SPREAD 45 x 30cm
liquid fertilizer once a month from spring (18 x 12in) PLANTING AND CARE Plant in 10–20cm
to autumn. WARNING! All parts toxic to pets (4–8in) pot in cactus compost (or a 2:1
mix of soil-based potting compost and
PLANTING AND CARE Grow in a small
Flaming Katy’s heads of bright flowers horticultural grit). Stand in full sun, and in
7.5–10cm (3–4in) pot in cactus compost
appear in spring and summer, creating a room with good ventilation. Repot every
(or a 2:1 mix of soil-based potting
a show of colour against the round, 2–3 years in spring when root-bound.
compost and horticultural grit). Set
fleshy green leaves. The red, pink, or
in full sun or filtered light, on or close
white blooms often last up to 12 weeks,
to a windowsill. Repot every 2–3 years but plants are reluctant to reflower, so
in spring, but only when root-bound. you may need to replace them each year.
WATERING From spring to summer,

water from the bottom when the top
of the compost feels dry, ensuring no
water falls in between the leaves, as this
can cause rot. Keep the compost almost
dry through autumn and winter.
to summer.
10–15cm (4–6in) pot in cactus compost
compost and horticultural grit). Cut
the flower stems down after blooming.
Repot every year in a container one
size larger, or buy new plants annually.
172
PANDA PLANT
Kalanchoe tomentosa AGM
TEMPERATURE 15–23ºC (60–75ºF) MOONSTONES

LIGHT Sun/Filtered sun Pachyphytum oviferum AGM
HUMIDITY Low
CARE Easy TEMPERATURE 10–27°C (50–80°F)
HEIGHT & SPREAD up to 60 x 60cm LIGHT Sun
(2 x 2ft) HUMIDITY Low
WARNING! All parts toxic to pets CARE Easy
The grey, velvety leaves, with brown
spots along the edges, give this (4 x 12in)
curious succulent a tactile quality WARNING! All parts toxic to pets
and its name. Grown for its foliage,
it can form quite a large plant with a These tiny succulents look like a handful
tree-like silhouette, but it is unlikely LIVING STONE of beach pebbles planted in a pot, and
to flower indoors. Lithops species are guaranteed to create a talking point,
despite their diminutive size. The plump
round leaves are pale blue-green to
WATERING From spring to summer, blue-purple, and in winter, the plant
PLANT PROFILES

water from the bottom when the top looks even more bizarre, when stems
LIGHT Sun
of the compost feels dry, ensuring up to 30cm (12in) long appear, topped
HUMIDITY Low
the leaves do not get wet. Keep the with dangling orange-red flowers.
compost almost dry through autumn CARE Easy
and winter. HEIGHT & SPREAD 1.5 x 0.75m
(5ft x 2ft 6in) WATERING Allow the soil to dry out
FEEDING Apply a half-strength before watering, and avoid getting water
balanced liquid fertilizer every month The leafless stems of these South African on the leaves. In winter, give a little more
from spring to late summer. natives look little flat-topped stones. water as this is when the plant grows.
Choose from plain grey-green types,
SUCCULENTS
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in cactus FEEDING Apply a quarter-strength

or those with spotted and patterned
compost (or a 2:1 mix of soil-based foliage. In autumn, a white, daisy-like balanced liquid fertilizer once in winter,
potting compost and horticultural grit) flower may grow from the crease in the although it will not suffer if not fed at all.
in a 10–20cm (4–8in) pot. Stand in full top of the stem. Fun for children, these PLANTING AND CARE Grow in a small
sun in a room with good ventilation. plants require little attention and are 7.5–10cm (3–4in) pot in cactus compost
Repot every 3 years in spring when very easy to grow. (or a 2:1 mix of soil-based potting
root-bound.
compost and horticultural grit). Set in
WATERING From winter to late summer, full sun, especially in winter when it is
water only when the leaves start to shrivel; in growth. Only repot when the plant
in autumn, water slightly more, so that the is root-bound, after it has flowered.
leaves remain firm.
FEEDING Apply a quarter-strength
balanced liquid fertilizer once
in autumn.
small 7.5–10cm (3–4in) pot in cactus
compost (or a 2:1 mix of soil-based
potting compost and horticultural grit).
Set in full sun, especially in winter, when
it will continue to grow. These plants
can stay in the same pot for many
years and prefer their own small,
individual containers. Repot in late
winter, just before you resume watering
it more frequently.
173
HOUSELEEK
Sempervivum species AGM
TEMPERATURE -14–27°C WATERING Allow the top of the compost

(50–80°F) to dry out between waterings from spring
LIGHT Sun/Filtered sun to autumn; water once a month in winter.
HUMIDITY Low FEEDING Apply a half-strength balanced
CARE Easy liquid fertilizer once a month from spring
HEIGHT & SPREAD up to to autumn.
20 x 30cm (8 x 12in)
PLANTING AND CARE Plant in a 2:1
The spiralling leaves of this tiny mix of soil-based compost and sand in
succulent come in a huge range of a 7.5–10cm (3–4in) pot. Stand in full sun.
colours, including all shades of green, The leaf rosette dies after flowering but
red, burgundy, and grey. Many sport new baby plants appear to replace the
tempting variegations, and some are old ones. Repot every 2–3 years when
covered in fine hairs. Starry flowers root-bound.
appear on stout stems in summer.
DONKEY’S TAIL
Sedum morganianum AGM

HUMIDITY Low
CARE Easy
This Mexican native has great appeal,

its rope-like stems of tiny round leaves
creating an amazing textural effect. It
makes a great focal point on a shelf or
windowsill, but handle the plant with
care, as the leaves are brittle and break
off easily. The small flowers, which form
at the tips of the stems, rarely appear
on plants grown indoors.

to autumn; water once a month in winter.
to autumn.
PLANTING AND CARE Grow in a small
7.5–10cm (3–4in) pot in cactus compost
compost and horticultural grit). Stand
in a bright spot, but out of strong midday
sun in summer. Repot every 2–3 years
in spring, only when root-bound.
174

LIGHT Filtered sun
HUMIDITY High
CARE Easy
The foliage of these pocket-sized

plants ranges from silvery and spiky,
to curled and spidery. Most flower
annually and the blooms are often
surprisingly large and colourful.
Plants die after flowering but, like
all bromeliads, baby plants form to
replace the old ones (see pp206–07).
WATERING Place in a tray of tepid

rainwater or distilled water once a week
for 30 minutes to an hour, then leave to
drain (see p185). Avoid wetting the
AIR PLANTS
flowers by propping up the air plants.
FEEDING Mist with a specialist Tillandsia
PLANT PROFILES
fertilizer once a month.

PLANTING AND CARE Display plants
in glass jars or shells, or on driftwood,
bark, or a decorative tray. Do not use
glue. Keep in a humid area out of direct
These tiny treasures can literally be grown sun and away from radiators and heaters.
in thin air, requiring no soil or compost

to put on a performance. Plants come
AIR PLANTS
in a wide range of shapes and sizes, some

resembling little sea urchins, while others
look more like conventional bromeliads (see
pp102–105), the family to which air plants
belong. When mature, these beauties will
burst into bloom, brightening up your home
with exotic, colourful flowers. Few plants are
easier to care for, so if you are a beginner,
they will not disappoint.
Tillandsia aeranthos
This air plant flowers reliably every year,

with pink and purple blooms appearing
between a spray of stiff green leaves.
175
AIR PLANTS
Tillandsia species and hybrids
Tillandsia argentea AGM Tillandsia cyanea Tillandsia tenuifolia
The thin, spiky foliage of this tiny species One of the most popular air plants, This air plant soon forms a clump of
radiates out from the centre, resembling the pink quill, as it is commonly known, spiky green foliage, and it will also
a sea urchin. Mature plants also bear a has dark green strappy leaves and tolerate a little neglect, quickly reviving
long, slim, red flowerhead, which holds an oval-shaped flowerhead, made after watering. The pink flower spikes
tiny purple blooms that are guaranteed up of pink bracts (petal-like modified resemble shooting stars and terminate
to turn heads. leaves) and small, violet-blue flowers. in a cluster of tubular violet blooms.
Tillandsia bulbosa Tillandsia juncea Tillandsia xerographica
Like a spider with curled legs, the long Small and compact, the silver grassy The silver foliage of this must-have
thin foliage of this unusual air plant foliage of this elegant air plant is prone plant sprawls and curls to form a dense
grows from a bulb-like centre, from to drying out, so water it regularly every clump. As it requires less water than
which tubular pink and purple flowers week. The blooms look like rows of tiny most, mist regularly rather than soaking.
emerge in early spring. The foliage also violet and pink lipsticks when they The long-lasting spike of violet blooms
turns red when the buds form. emerge from the narrow flower spike. only appears on mature plants.
CARE AND
CULTIVATION
178
BUYING A NEW
HOUSE PLANT
It’s fun visiting the plant shop or nursery to pick out your favourite
plants, but before you hand over your money, take a look at these
tips to make sure you buy strong, healthy ones that will thrive when
you bring them home. Check out the tool kit, too (see right), and
pick up anything you will need to care for your new purchases.
CARE AND CULTIVATION
IN THE SHOP GIVE YOUR PLANTS

TAKING YOUR
Take a shopping list of the plants A HEALTH CHECK PLANT HOME
you like with you and try to stick to Inspect any potential plant Depending on where you live,
it when you get to the nursery or purchase carefully using this you may need to protect tender
garden centre. If, when you arrive, checklist, and reject any that plants from the cold in winter by
you fall in love with a plant that is not show signs of pests or diseases
wrapping them in cellophane. Do
on your list, check the plant label (see pp214–19).
not expose them to temperatures
carefully or ask the nursery staff first
1 Check for signs of wilting, which
below freezing point, even for just
before buying to make sure you can
may be a sign of root pests. a short time, as this could prove
give it the conditions it needs. If
BUYING A NEW HOUSE PLANT
fatal for tender types. If the odd leaf

you are sure you will be able to look
2 Look out for dark spots or streaks or flower stem is damaged during
after it well, give your chosen plant
on the leaves, stems, or flowers that the journey home, cut it off down
a thorough health check (see right),
could indicate disease or a virus. to healthy growth or the base of the
and look under the container to see
plant to prevent diseases entering
whether it has drainage holes. If not, 3 Inspect the undersides of through the wounds.
repot it when you get home, as a leaves and stems for pests or
lack of drainage frequently leads to pest damage.
waterlogging and fungal diseases. AT HOME
4 Check the compost for pests.
Unwrap the plant, repot it if
necessary (see left), then place it,
5 Tip the plant out of its pot
(if you can) and check that it is
still in its plastic pot, in a waterproof
not root-bound. container, known in the trade as a
“sleeve”, or on a saucer. Give the
plant a good drink (see pp184–87)
and leave it to drain. Finally, check
the plant’s other care requirements
(see the Plant Profiles chapter,
pp100–75) and place it in a suitable
spot that provides the optimum light
and temperature for it to thrive.
Check for drainage holes

Make sure the plant’s pot has
adequate drainage to prevent
it from rotting. If it does not,
repot it when you get home.
179
HOUSE PLANT TOOL KIT

With the tools and materials below, you will
Small watering
be fully equipped to care for the vast majority
can with rose
of house plants. attachment for
watering from
above
Decorative
waterproof pots
and drip trays
for drainage
Dibber
for making
holes in
compost
for seeds
Small and
trowel seedlings
for tiny
pots
Pebbles
Slim-
headed
Mister
trowel
spray
for
larger
plants
Small
sharp
knife
Secateurs Small
for pruning hand fork
Brush for
Soft cloth to
removing
wipe leaves
compost
from cacti
and delicate
plants
180
GET THE
LIGHT RIGHT
Providing your plant with
the amount of light it needs
is essential for its long-term Shade
health. Sun supplies plants

with energy – too little may
Light shade is the level
inhibit their ability to flower,
of light further back from

a window in a room that
while too much can scorch receives sun for half the
the leaves or lead to wilting, day. It can also be in front
Window with direct sun for half the day
of a window that receives

so assess the light levels in Polka-dot no direct sunlight or in the
plant
corners of a sunnier room.
your home to find the ideal Woodland plants and
Filtered sun describes the many with large green
positions for your plants. light close to a window that leaves thrive in lightly
receives sun for half the shaded areas.
day. It may also be the level
of light in a sunnier room
behind a net/sheer curtain
GET THE LIGHT RIGHT
at the window. It is the

correct level for plants that
CHOOSING THE need a bright position, but
PERFECT SPOT not in the full blare of strong
sun all day.
Whether you live in a bright house
with windows on all sides, or in a
small flat that receives little or no
direct sunlight, there is a range
of plants to suit your situation.
Use this floorplan to help you
identify what light levels you Parlour
have in your living space, so palm
Shade
that you can choose the best
plants to match those conditions.
Remember to take into account
neighbouring buildings or tall
trees that may cast additional Find your light levels ▲
shade throughout the day, and This floorplan shows a home with
bear in mind that light levels may windows on three sides of the
fluctuate over the course of the building, each letting in different
year, depending on the season. levels of light, as described in the
Plant Profiles chapter (pp100–75).
Note that one room may receive up Front door with
to three different levels of sunlight. small window
181
Window with TIPS FOR INCREASING

no direct sunlight LIGHT LEVELS
1 Clean leaves regularly to increase
the amount of light that reaches
your plant. Use a soft, damp cloth
to remove dust every week, taking
Shade Shade care not to damage the foliage.
2 Turn your plants by 90 degrees
every few days so that each side
receives sufficient sun and grows
evenly, no matter what light levels
Light shade your living space receives. This
will prevent the plant becoming
Radiator misshapen over time (see p213).
plant
3 Take note of light variations
between seasons. In countries
with marked seasons, sunlight is
Shade can be found at the back and stronger in summer and weaker
to the sides of a room where the windows in winter, when the days are also
receive no direct sun or limited hours shorter. In these areas, plants that
of sunlight. The choice of plants that like filtered sun may need to be set
thrive in shade is very restricted, but closer to a sunny window in winter.
there are few that will cope, including Chinese If this is the case, take care not to
a Chinese evergreen, devil’s ivy, and evergreen leave them trapped behind curtains
some ferns. on a cold windowsill at night, as the
extreme drop in temperature could
cause them harm.
4 Boost low light levels in your
living space using artificial lights
(also known as “grow lights”),
which imitate the sun’s rays. There
is a range of easy-to-install units
Filtered sun suitable for the home gardener;
but always ask the supplier’s advice
Filtered before buying, as some may emit
sun Boat lily too much or too little light for the
plants you wish to grow.
Sun, the brightest light type, can North American

be found in front of a window pitcher plant
that gets over 12 hours of direct
sunlight each day. Not many KEY
plants can cope with this
intense light, especially in Sun
summer, although some like
Light a position here in winter when Light Filtered sun
shade the light is weaker. shade
Light shade
Shade
Window with direct sunlight

for most of the day
182
CHECK THE
TEMPERATURE “ Keep tropical
plants away from
While most house plants will grow quite happily
in our warm homes, they may suffer in extremely
heat sources and
hot or cold spots. Check your plants’ preferred draughty areas.”
temperatures (see pp100–75) and use the advice
below to find the perfect spot to display them.
PROVIDE OPTIMUM
TEMPERATURES
Draughty hallways will suit
While many house plants will cope a few woodland plants, such
with a relatively wide temperature as the button fern, and tough
range, always check your plant’s types like devil’s ivy and the
specific needs in the Plant Profile umbrella plant. Other plants,
chapter (see pp100–75). As many including most tropical varieties,
house plants come from tropical should be kept elsewhere, in
areas, few will be able to deal with areas where temperatures
CHECK THE TEMPERATURE
long periods of very low temperatures. are consistently warmer.

Equally, extended hot spells could cause
some plants to dehydrate quickly and
wilt. If you have a plant that you cannot
identify, the safest range is between Hot, dry areas near
12–24°C (54–75°F), which suits the radiators, open fires, or
majority of house plants. heaters, are not suitable for
Button any house plants, so keep
fern them at a safe distance.
Away from the window, temperatures

will be more even throughout the day,
Find the right temperature ▶ which will suit plants that also prefer
Use this illustration to identify different lower light conditions.
sources of heat and draughts and find Bamboo palm
the best locations to display your plants.
183
NORMAL TEMPERATURE VARIATIONS

All plants are adapted to deal with plants, such as cymbidium orchids (see
some fluctuations in temperature, right), will only form flowers when there is
but these should not fall below or a drop of more than 10°C (18°F) at night
exceed its minimum or maximum (see p197).
temperature requirements for
Seasonal temperature variations can be
long periods (see Plant Profiles,
felt by most plants, even inside our
pp100–75), as this could harm
heated homes, and in winter, this
the plant (see pp213).
often leads to a reduction in
growth. Some plants have adapted to
Day-to-night temperature drops of
cold climates by becoming dormant in
about 5–10°C (9–18°F) are normal for
winter; these will need to be moved to Cymbidium
most plants, as that is what they would
an unheated area at this time of year. orchid
experience in nature. However, some
Heat rises, meaning

that rooms will be
warmer closer to the
ceiling. Water and mist
hanging plants more
frequently than others
in the same room.
Lipstick
plant
Rex begonias
The ideal spot for most

house plants is an area a Windowsills can fluctuate a lot
short distance from sunny in temparature, even those beside
windows and away from double-glazed windows. They
heaters and radiators. Angel’s can become extremely warm
wings in summer and chilly during the
winter. On hot days, open windows
or turn on the air conditioning to
keep the room cool, and do not
trap plants between the window
and curtains at night in winter.
184
HOW TO WATER YOUR THE GOLDEN RULES

OF WATERING
HOUSE PLANTS 1 Keep plants in pots with drainage

holes to prevent waterlogging.
2 Water most plants every 2–4 days
(or as required) in spring and
Watering most house plants can be pretty summer to keep the compost
moist (not waterlogged).
straightforward provided that you understand their 3 Water desert cacti and succulents
individual needs. By following a few simple rules, less frequently (only when the top
of the compost feels dry).
you can make sure that they receive just the right
4 Reduce frequency of watering
amount of moisture to keep them thriving. in winter when plant growth is
slower and temperatures are lower.
5 Tip out excess water from pot

sleeves and saucers to prevent
WHEN TO WATER overly soggy compost.
Most house plants prefer moist compost in spring and summer 6 Avoid getting water on the leaves
when they are in growth, but take care not to water too much; and stems of plants with soft, furry
soggy, waterlogged compost causes disease and can be foliage, or succulents and cacti.
fatal, while a little drought is easily remedied. To prevent wet 7 Check the Plant Profile chaper
compost, keep your plants in pots with drainage holes at the (see pp100–75) to see if your plant
bottom, so that any excess water can drain out, and tip away prefers rainwater or distilled water.
any surplus that is sitting in the plant’s decorative pot (“sleeve”)
or saucer about an hour after watering.
HOW TO WATER YOUR HOUSE PLANTS
HOW TO WATER
To keep your plants in peak
condition, check the specific
advice for each one in the Plant
Profile chapter (see pp100–75)
and use the watering method
(or methods) appropriate to
your plant, as outlined in the
five options on the right.
Watering from above Watering from below

Pour water from above if your plant Set your plant in a pot with drainage
is happy for its foliage to be doused; holes in a tray of water about 2cm
most tropical plants and ferns are (3⁄4in) deep. Leave for 20 minutes, then
in this category. Make sure that the remove and drain. Use this method
compost is also soaked or you risk for plants that do not like wet leaves
watering the leaves without any or stems, such as African violets, or
moisture reaching the roots. if foliage is covering the compost.
185
“ Take care not to overwater STOP THE ROT
your plants; soggy compost

will harm them far more
quickly than drought.”
MOISTURE LEVELS EXPLAINED

Almost dry compost should feel Moist compost should feel damp to
dry 2cm (¾in) beneath the surface, touch, but not look wet and glistening.
but may be slightly damp lower Make sure the plant pot has drainage
down. Most succulents and cacti holes and tip out any excess water
require their compost to be this dry about an hour after watering.
between waterings.
Wet compost should be entirely Drought-loving cacti and succulents
A dry top layer of compost should soaked and have a glistening surface. like their leaves and stems to remain
feel dry to the touch on the surface. Carnivorous plants are among the dry at all times, so add a layer of
Many plants should feel dry before few that require this. Plant in a pot grit (known as a “mulch”) on top
water is reapplied; others may only with drainage holes and stand in a of the compost if repotting. Mulch
need this level of moisture in winter tray of water. helps water to quickly drain away,
when growth is slow. preventing them from rotting.
Misting leaves and aerial roots Watering bromeliads Soaking air plants
Some plants absorb moisture The leaves and bracts (petal-like Air plants are best soaked in a tray
through their leaves and aerial modified leaves) of most bromeliads of rainwater or distilled water for
roots. Examples include orchids, form a cup-like reservoir in the centre an hour once a week. After soaking,
Swiss cheese plants and areca of the plant. Fill this up with rainwater leave to drain, and make sure they
palms. Mist the leaves and roots or distilled water, replenishing it dry fully within 4 hours to prevent
regularly, but also water the every few weeks. Also water the them rotting. Alternatively, mist
compost to keep them healthy. compost so that it is moist. them 2–3 times a week.
186
WATERING WHEN Water bottle method

Cut the bottom off a plastic
YOU GO AWAY water bottle, and make a tiny
hole in the cap with a tip of
Most plants will survive a long hot skewer. Screw the cap
weekend without any water, and onto the bottle and push
many cacti and succulents will be it into the compost. Fill
fine for a couple of weeks if you the bottle with water; this
bring them into a cool, bright room will then drip slowly into
the compost. Make sure the
and give them a drink immediately
plant pot has drainage holes
on your return. For all other plants,
so that the compost does
you will need to take action. If you not become too wet.
do not have a green-fingered
neighbour or friend who can
water while you are away, try these
simple tricks to keep your plants
in good health.
The wick system

Stand a bowl of water on
an upturned pot so that it
is higher than the surface of
the compost. Weigh down
a strip of capillary matting
(available from garden
centres) in the bowl, then
push the other end into
the compost. The matting
will slowly water the plant.
HOW TO WATER YOUR HOUSE PLANTS
This technique is the best

option for watering single
plants, or large ones that
cannot be moved.
“ Use these Easy sink method

Fill the kitchen sink with
water and place either
clever tricks to capillary matting or an
old towel on the draining
keep your plants board, with one end in the
water. Remove your plants
hydrated while
from their sleeves and set
them on the wet matting or
towel, so that moisture can
you’re away be drawn up through the
drainage holes to the roots.
from home.”
187
RAISING HUMIDITY Tray of damp pebbles

An easy way to raise
LEVELS humidity levels is to set your
plant on a tray filled with
The dry atmosphere in our homes stone or hydroleca ceramic
can cause some plants’ foliage to pebbles. Pour in water
dry out and turn brown, inhibiting so that it just covers the
growth. The many house plants that pebbles and set your plant
hail from the tropics are especially pot on top. As the water
gradually evaporates, it
vulnerable, as they are adapted to
creates a humid atmosphere
thrive in humid air. Try to replicate
around the plant.
this atmosphere in your home using
one or two of the methods here.
Misting plants
Increase the humidity
around your plant by
misting the leaves and
aerial roots every day or
HUMIDITY LEVELS two, reducing the frequency
EXPLAINED to once a week in winter
High humidity means that the air for most plants. Check
is saturated with moisture. Tropical the advice for your chosen
plants thrive in this atmosphere, but plants in the Plant Profiles
they may be difficult to care for in chapter (see pp100–75)
homes with central heating (which as some prefer to be
can dry out the air). If you want to misted with rainwater
keep these demanding plants, place or distilled water.
them in a humid kitchen or bathroom,
or invest in a room humidifier.
Moderate humidity is required
by many house plants, including
orchids, ferns, some palms, and
a large number of foliage plants. Grouping plants
Misting them regularly, setting All plants release water
them on a tray of damp pebbles, through a process known
and grouping a few together will as “transpiration”, just like
help to raise the humidity to the we do when we breathe out.
correct level. You can create a tropical
microclimate by grouping
Low humidity is where the
a few plants together, where
atmosphere holds little moisture.
each of them will benefit
Plants from arid regions (such as
from the moisture released
cacti, succulents, and those from
by their neighbours.
Mediterranean areas) are adapted
to these conditions. Most rooms in
centrally heated homes have low
levels of air moisture, although
drought-lovers will not cope well
in humid kitchens or bathrooms.
188
“ Fertilizer
FEEDING provides the
YOUR PLANTS nutrients plants
Put your house plants on a diet of essential nutrients would draw from
and they will reward you with healthy flowers and
the soil if planted
foliage. Like us, however, they can suffer if you feed
them too much or too little. Knowing what to feed your outdoors.”
plants, and how often, will help them stay on track.
FOOD ESSENTIALS PLANT NUTRIENTS EXPLAINED

While most plants growing in the ground can The main plant nutrients are nitrogen (N), phosphorus
get all the nutrients they need from the soil, plants (P), and potassium (K), also known as potash (see below).
in pots rely entirely on you for their food supply. Balanced fertilizers contain all three nutrients, together
Many composts contain fertilizers, but after your with a range of trace elements that plants needs in smaller
plant has used these up, you will have to step in quantities. The nutrient content of a fertilizer is often shown
and start feeding them. The type of fertilizer and on the packaging as a ratio of N:P:K; a balanced fertilizer, for
dosage depends on the plant, so check its specific instance, would be 20:20:20. Most plants only need to be fed
when they are actively growing, usually between spring and
needs in the Plant Profile chapter (pp100–75).
autumn, and they require few or no extra nutrients in winter.
FEEDING YOUR PLANTS
Plants also take up fertilizer through their roots in a solution,

so dry compost will not only dehydrate them but also limit
their ability to absorb fertilizer.
Nitrogen (N) is known as the leaf-maker,

because it promotes strong, healthy foliage.
This in turn encourages good overall growth,
since the foliage feeds the whole plant. It is
particularly important for leafy house plants.
Phosphorus (P) is the root-maker, and

it is required by all plants to grow and
develop. The roots transport food and
water to the plant, thus enabling strong
and healthy growth.
Potassium (potash) (K) is essential for

Well-nourished plants the development of flowers and fruits.
A well-fed plant will display vigorous Fertilizers with a high potash content are
growth and none of the tell-tale signs often given to plants a few months before
of over- or under-feeding, such as they are due bloom to encourage lots of
yellowing or pale leaves. buds to form.
189
CHOOSING A FERTILIZER
Different plants have different dietary needs, so make sure you
are giving the correct fertilizer at the right dosage. Remember that
overfeeding plants can be as bad, or worse, than underfeeding
them (see p213).
Balanced liquid fertilizer

The majority of house
plants need a balanced
liquid fertilizer, which
you can buy as either
a powder or liquid that
you then dilute, or as a
ready-mixed solution.
This type of fertilizer
is applied at regular
intervals throughout the
growing season, usually
High-potash fertilizer
This fertilizer is rich This bottle
in flower-promoting drip-feeds the
orchid with
potassium (see opposite). a specially
It is usually sold as a formulated
liquid that you dilute fertilizer
before use. Tomato
fertilizers have a high
potash content, and can
be used on flowering
plants as well as those
that produce fruits, such
as the Jerusalem cherry.
Slow-release
granular fertilizer
Large or woody plants,
such as trees, shrubs,
and perennial climbers,
may benefit from an
all-purpose granular
fertilizer. Apply undiluted Specialist house plant fertilizer
as granules or in tablet Manufacturers have developed fertilizers
form (shown left) to the that have been carefully formulated for plants
compost once a year, with specific needs, such as orchids, cacti,
usually in early spring. and carnivorous plants. They are usually sold
Watering breaks down in simple-to-use solutions; some, for instance,
the granules, which then come in small bottles that can be inserted
release their nutrients. into the compost, where they drip-feed
nutrients to the plant over time (see above).
190
CHOOSING COMPOST
FOR YOUR PLANTS
Use this guide to choose the best type of compost for your plant,
and any additional materials you may need when potting it up.
Always use fresh compost when repotting (see pp192–93); do not
reuse old compost from other plants, as this will lack nutrients and
could also harbour hidden diseases or pests.
WHAT IS COMPOST?
“Compost” (or, more accurately, “growing media”)
is the term commonly used to describe the soil-like
material that potted plants are grown in. There are
many different types, made up of a combination of
soil (or “loam”), decomposed organic matter (similar
to the compost you may make at home in a compost
bin), aggregates such as sand and grit, and fertilizers.
Some also contain peat, but because its extraction
threatens the sustainability of natural peat bogs,
CHOOSING COMPOST FOR YOUR PLANTS
many people prefer to use peat-free alternatives.

Multipurpose compost
Also known as all-purpose compost, this lightweight type is
available with or without peat. Made from natural materials,
such as coir, bark, and composted wood fibre, most also
contain enough fertilizer to feed plants for a few weeks.
BEST FOR Annual flowering house plants
Soil- or loam-based compost House plant compost

Also known as John Innes compost, this type contains Formulated to meet the needs of most house plants, this
sterilized soil, together with some of the natural materials offers a quick and easy solution if you do not know the
in multipurpose composts and a range of essential plant needs of your plant. Similar to multipurpose compost, most
nutrients. It is generally used for plants that will live in types contain peat and a range of essential plant nutrients.
their pots for more than one year. BEST FOR Most house plants, except for those with special
BEST FOR Trees, shrubs, and perennial climbers needs, such as orchids and cacti (see opposite)
191
OTHER MATERIALS YOU MAY NEED

The following materials are often mixed with
compost to lighten or aerate it, or to help increase
drainage. Check the potting advice for your particular
plant in the Plant Profiles chapter (pp100–75) to see
if it needs them, and the correct quantities to use.
Seed and cutting compost

As the name suggests, this is the best choice for sowing
seeds and taking cuttings. It is free-draining to prevent
rotting and its fine texture means that even tiny seeds
are in contact with the compost, aiding germination.
BEST FOR Sowing seeds; taking cuttings; potting up
young seedlings
Vermiculite and perlite are Gravel and grit can both

minerals that have been prevent soggy compost.
heated to produce spongy Gravel, if added to the
grains. Both increase bottom of a pot, creates
drainage while retaining a reservoir that water can
and holding water well, drain into, while smaller grit
then releasing it slowly back particles are often mixed
into the compost. They are with composts to increase
often mixed with compost, drainage, providing ideal
or used to cover seeds to conditions for succulents
Specialist composts keep them moist. and other drought-lovers.
Formulated for specific plant groups, such as orchids,
cacti, or carnivorous plants, this range of composts
takes the guesswork out of making your own mixes
for plants that demand very particular conditions.
BEST FOR Orchids, cacti and succulents, carnivorous plants
Horticultural sand is often Sphagnum moss can

used in combination with be placed on the surface
compost to create the of compost to help create
free-draining conditions the moist conditions
succulents and other enjoyed by some plants,
Ericaceous compost drought-loving plants such as ferns. It is also
Similar to multipurpose, this compost is designed need. Always use washed, included in the growing
for plants that require acidic soil conditions, such as sterilized, fine-grade sand; medium for carnivorous
azaleas and blue hydrangeas. After planting, remember builders’ sand contains plants and a few other
to use a fertilizer for acid-loving plants when those in too much lime for most species that like wet
the compost have been used up. house plants. or boggy conditions.
BEST FOR Azaleas, blue hydrangeas, and some ferns
192
POTS AND
REPOTTING
Choosing the right pot will help you to keep your
house plants healthy. A good container should offer
plenty of drainage, and will need to be replaced
every few years as the plant grows, to avoid its roots
becoming congested and “root-bound”.
HOW TO TELL A PLANT

HOW TO REPOT
NEEDS REPOTTING A PLANT
Check the following factors,
which can mean your plant When repotting a plant, opt for a 1 Most plants are repotted every
2–3 years, or annually when they
are young. If you suspect yours is
needs repotting: pot one size larger than the container
in which it is currently housed, with root-bound, check to see if the roots
1 Waterlogged compost may drainage holes at the bottom to are growing through the drainage
indicate that the plant’s pot has allow excess water to filter out. You holes of its pot.
no drainage, in which case it needs can use either a decorative pot with
a new one with drainage holes. drainage holes and a waterproof
POTS AND REPOTTING
2 Roots are growing through saucer, as we have done here, or a

the drainage holes at the bottom plain plastic pot, which can then be
of the container, suggesting the hidden inside a prettier waterproof
plant is root-bound (also known container, known as a “sleeve”.
as pot-bound).
3 The roots are tightly encircling
the sides of the root ball when you WHAT YOU WILL NEED
tip it out. Note: some plants prefer
their roots to be confined, so check PLANT
the repotting advice for yours in the
• Root-bound plant
Plant Profile chapter (see pp100–75)
4 The leaves are pale or yellow, OTHER MATERIALS
which may be a sign that the roots • Pot one size larger than the original
are congested and unable to take with drainage holes in the bottom
up nutrients efficiently. • Compost to suit the plant
5 The plant is wilting, which may (see Plant Profiles, pp100–175)
also be a sign of congested roots. • Decorative waterproof container
(optional)
2
TOOLS Choose a new pot that is wide
• Watering can (fitted with a and deep enough to fit the root
rose attachment if necessary) ball, with some space around the
edges and at the top to allow for
watering. Water the plant well about
half an hour before repotting it.
193
“ A root-bound
plant will have
tightly packed roots
that are growing
through its pot’s
drainage holes.”
3 Add a layer of compost to the bottom of the new pot. Remove
the plant from its original container. Gently tease out the roots
that are tightly packed around the edges or at the bottom, and set
the plant on the compost, checking that the top is sitting 1cm (1⁄2in)
below the rim. This allows space for water to collect at the top
before filtering into the compost.
CARING FOR LARGE PLANTS

If you have a large tree or shrub that you want to keep at the same
size, try tipping it out of its container and lightly trimming off the
roots around the sides, then return it to the same pot with fresh
compost. Larger plants can also be kept in the same pot year after
year if given a top dressing of fresh compost and fertilizer each
spring – follow the steps to keep yours in good health.
4 Fill in around the roots with more compost,

pressing it down gently to remove any air
gaps. Do not bury the stems (or aerial roots, if
1 Remove the top layer of
compost, ensuring you do
not damage the roots. Apply a
2 Add fresh compost to the
same level as it was originally,
patting it down to remove any
it has any); it should be at the same depth as it slow-release granular fertilizer at air gaps. Water well to settle the
was in its original pot. Water gently, taking care the recommended rate (see p189). new compost around the roots.
to keep the leaves dry.
194
KEEPING YOUR PLANTS

IN SHAPE
If your plant has lost its shape, is threatening to outgrow its
space, or has areas of dead or diseased growth, it needs a
trim. Regular pruning can also encourage more flowers to
form and make plants bushier, so follow these simple pruning
techniques to keep your plants neat and in good health.
WHY PRUNE?
WHAT TO PRUNE
1 Dead, broken or cracked stems
2 Diseased stems or any that

are discoloured or marked
3 Stems that are rubbing against

one another
KEEPING YOUR PLANTS IN SHAPE
4 Brown or discoloured leaves
Keep a large plant compact Remove dead or diseased parts 5 Overly long stems that create
Removing or reducing long stems Cut out areas of the plant that look a lopsided shape
will help keep a plant’s size in check, dead or diseased, and disinfect tools
but pruning too frequently can after use. Also remove stems that 6 Tips of stems, to encourage
actually stimulate growth, so cut are rubbing against each other, bushy growth
it back just once or twice a year. which may cause abrasions.
7 Leading stem(s) at the top
of the plant, to prevent it from
growing too tall
8 Old flowering stems,

to encourage reflowering
9 Stems of plain-coloured leaves

on variegated plants
Make a plant bushier Encourage more flowers

Removing the tips of a stem releases Deadhead your plants by taking out
a chemical that stimulates the growth the old flowering stems after the
of more side-shoots lower down, blooms have faded. This diverts the
and bushier growth. Use secateurs plant’s energy from making seeds
or your fingers to nip out the tips. into producing more flowers.
195
BEFORE
HOW TO PRUNE
While you can cut back unhealthy
growth at any time of year, most WHAT YOU WILL NEED
plants are best pruned during early
spring, before they start a period PLANTS
of rapid growth; check the Plant • Misshapen or large plant that
Profiles chapter to confirm your has outgrown its space
plant's pruning needs (pp100–75).
Always check the plant before you TOOLS
begin so that you know which stems • Sharp, clean secateurs
you will need to remove. • Household disinfectant
AFTER
1 When pruning, use sharp secateurs

to cut just above a leaf stem, node
(bump on the stem where new growth
2 Remove any dead, damaged, or
diseased stems, cutting them back
to healthy growth. Also cut out stems
will develop), or side-stem, where that are rubbing against one another.
it meets the main stem. To take out On variegated plants, remove any
a whole stem, remove it at the base. stems of plain, solid-coloured leaves.
3 Once unhealthy growth is removed,

reassess the plant's shape and cut
away stems that are creating an awkward
4 If your plant is as tall as you want it
to be, take out the leading stem to
prevent further growth. When you have
or lopsided shape. If there are gaps in finished pruning your plant, clean your
the outline, prune the stem tips around tools with household disinfectant, rinse
them to encourage bushier growth. them under the tap, and dry well.
196
HOW TO MAKE AN
ORCHID REFLOWER
Orchids are usually bought while flowering, and can bloom for many weeks
if well cared for. When their flowers do eventually fade and die, encourage
them to bloom again after a period of rest by following these simple steps.
BLOOMING HEALTH
The care needed to encourage an orchid

to reflower will also keep your plant healthy,
as you are offering the optimum conditions
for it to thrive. A healthy orchid can live for
decades, and bloom every 8 to 12 months.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
PLANT TOOLS
• Mature orchid with • Secateurs
fading flowers • Soft cloth
HOW TO MAKE AN ORCHID REFLOWER
• Watering can
OTHER MATERIALS
• Mister spray or tray
• Pot one size larger than
of damp pebbles
the original with
drainage holes in the • Suitable fertilizer
bottom (optional)
• Compost to suit the
plant (see Plant Profiles,
pp110–15)
1 Cut back the flowering stems to just

above the second pale horizontal
band. This allows the plant to put all
its energy into making new leaves,
rather than seed, which will supply
energy for the next set of flowers.
2 Ensure the plant receives plenty

of light, as too little sun will inhibit
flower formation. Bring it closer to a
window during winter, when the light
is weaker, and dust the leaves every
week or two to maximize the amount
of light they can absorb. Remember
to move the plant back out of direct
midday sun during summer.
3 Repot the plant if it
is tightly root-bound
(see pp192–93). Use a
pot just one size larger
than the original, as
most orchids prefer
slightly cramped roots.
4 Keep your plant

hydrated as necessary,
watering less frequently
during winter. Mist the
leaves and aerial roots
every day or two with
rainwater or distilled
water, or set on a tray of
damp pebbles (see p187).
5 Feed the plant using

a specialist orchid or
balanced liquid fertilizer,
KNOW YOUR ORCHID'S NEEDS
Each type of orchid requires slightly different
applying the correct conditions to thrive and reflower, so check yours
dosage for your plant in the Orchids section of the Plant Profile chapter
(see pp188–89). During (see pp110–15) and tailor your care accordingly.
winter, either feed the
plant less or do not feed 1 Take seasonal variations into consideration.
it at all, depending on Some orchids from cool, humid forests like
its particular needs. lower temperatures, while others, such as moth
orchids, flower well in warmer conditions.
6 Check your plant's

temperature needs,
including if it requires
2 Look out for orchids that need a marked
difference between day and night temperatures
to form flowers; Cattleya, Cymbidium, Dendrobium
a marked drop at night.
nobile, and Vanda all fall into this category.
After 9–12 months
(depending on the type 3 Check if your plant needs a high-potash fertilizer
of orchid; see pp110–15), instead of a specialist orchid fertilizer to flower.
move it to a cooler room
to encourage buds to 4 Be patient. While moth orchids could reflower
form, then bring it back after a dormancy of just 8 months, most orchids
into the warmth to bloom. will only bloom once a year.
198
HOW TO GROW
BULBS INDOORS
Plant bulbs in autumn for beautiful floral house plant displays
in winter and early spring. In cooler countries, tender bulbs,
such as amaryllis, should be grown indoors, while hardy outdoor
types can be “forced” to flower earlier inside by growing them
in a cool spot, then moving them to a warmer room to bloom.
GROWING
TENDER BULBS
Amaryllis bulbs (available from late
autumn to midwinter) are tender
and will die in frosty conditions
outside, but they can be planted
indoors where, with a little care, they
will grow into beautiful house plants.
HOW TO GROW BULBS INDOORS
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
PLANTS
• Amaryllis bulb 1 Soak the bulb for a few hours. Set
the bulb on a layer of bulb fibre,
then fill in around it with more fibre,
2 Water well and leave to drain.
Stand the pot in a bright, warm
place. Water sparingly until shoots
OTHER MATERIALS leaving up to two-thirds of the bulb appear; then keep the compost
• Pot with drainage holes, slightly showing above the surface. consistently moist.
wider and about one and a half
times as deep as the bulb
• Bulb fibre (specially formulated
compost for growing bulbs) or
3 Turn the pot every day so that
stems grow evenly. Move to a
cooler room where flower buds will
multipurpose compost appear 6–8 weeks after planting, and
stake the tall stems, if necessary. After
TOOLS blooming, feed the plant weekly
• Watering can with a balanced liquid fertilizer until
the leaves die down. Keep in a cool,
bright position, and do not feed
or water when dormant, from late
summer to mid-autumn.
199
GROWING
HARDY BULBS
Outdoor bulbs are often “forced”
to bloom earlier indoors than they
would normally develop outside
in the cold. Suitable bulbs include
scented hyacinths (shown here) and
grape hyacinths; daffodils and lilies
of the valley require slightly different
forcing methods (see below). Some
bulbs, including hyacinths and
paperwhite daffodils, will be labelled
“prepared”. These have been chilled
to imitate a winter season, which they
1 2
need to go through before flowering, Place a layer of bulb fibre in a pot. Fill in around the bulbs with fibre so
and will bloom in winter, rather than Water the fibre and leave to drain. the tips are just above the surface.
spring. Other bulbs do not require this Wearing gloves (the bulbs can cause Leave a 1cm (1⁄2in) gap between the
treatment to flower earlier indoors, skin irritation), space the bulbs evenly fibre and top of the pot. Place the pot
but may not bloom until late winter. on the fibre, making sure the pointed in a black plastic bag and set in a cool
ends face up. dark place.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
PLANTS 3 Check every week and water lightly

if the bulb fibre is dry. When shoots
are 5cm (2in) tall (usually 6–10 weeks
• Prepared hyacinth bulbs or
unprepared grape hyacinth bulbs later), remove the bag and bring the
pot indoors into a cool room out of
OTHER MATERIALS direct sun. Stand in a slightly warmer
• Wide pot with drainage holes spot to flower.
• Bulb fibre
TOOLS
• Gloves
• Black plastic bag
• Watering can with a rose attachment
FORCING DAFFODILS AND LILIES OF THE VALLEY

To force daffodil bulbs, Grow lilies of the valley from
follow Steps 1 and 2 above, rhizomes, known as “pips”,
but cover the bulbs with a which are sold in winter with
thin layer of compost. Set the roots already growing.
in a cool room below 10°C Soak the pips for 2 hours,
(50°F) for 6–12 weeks in then plant in soil-based
a bright spot out of direct compost in tall, deep pots
sun, then in a warmer area with drainage holes, so the
to flower. The best scented top of the pips are just below
daffodils for forcing are the surface. Water and leave
tender paperwhites, which in a cool room in light shade,
flower within 12 weeks. out from direct sun. Flowers
will appear 3–5 weeks later.
200
PROPAGATE FROM
STEM CUTTINGS
HOW TO One of the easiest ways to make new plants,
this method is suitable for most soft-stemmed
PROPAGATE house plants. Take your cuttings in spring or early

summer, when the plant is growing quickly, and
use young, pliable stems, rather than older,
PLANTS woodier growth, which may take longer to root.

Many plants, including this silver inch plant, will
produce rooted cuttings in 6–8 weeks.
Filling your home with the plants you love WHAT YOU WILL NEED
can be expensive, but many are easy to

PLANT TOOLS
propagate, giving you lots of new plants • Mature plant with • Secateurs or
from your original purchase. Use the guide healthy young stems sharp clean knife
• Dibber
below to decide which method suits your OTHER MATERIALS
• Small watering
plants best; many can be propagated from • Hormone rooting can fitted with a
powder (optional) rose attachment
cuttings, while others are better grown from • Small plastic pots or • Plastic bag and
seed tray
divisions, offsets, or seed. rubber band
• Cuttings compost or clear seed
• Multipurpose compost tray or pot lid
HOW TO PROPAGATE PLANTS
WHICH PROPAGATION METHOD

SHOULD I USE?
The stem cutting method suits most soft-stemmed plants;
woodier stems can also be used, but may take longer to
root. (pp200–01)
The leaf cutting method is most effective for begonias,

Cape primroses, snake plants, and succulents. (pp202–03)
The water method will work for most house plants, although
woodier-stemmed plants may take longer to root. (p204)
The division method can be used on plants with fibrous

root systems that throw up new shoots next to the parent
plant. (p205)
The offset method suits plants which produce “baby”

offsets, such as bromeliads and spider plants. (pp206–07)
The seed method is most often used to grow annual

plants; perennials can be sown too, but may take longer
to mature. (pp208–09)
1 In spring or early summer, select a

non-flowering stem from a healthy plant.
Using sharp secateurs, cut off a 10–15cm (4–6in)
section from the tip, just below a leaf joint.
2 Remove the lower 2–3 leaves (or sets of leaves, if
they are opposite each other). Take a few cuttings
using this method, making sure you leave plenty of
stems on the parent plant.
3 Dip the end

of each cutting
into hormone
rooting powder.
This is an optional
step, as most
stems will produce
roots without
it, but they may
take longer.
5 Insert up to 3 cuttings
per pot, or plant 6 in a
small seed tray. Settle the
compost around the stems
by watering lightly with a
watering can fitted with
a rose attachment.
6 Cover the pot with a

plastic bag secured
with a rubber band or a
tray lid. Keep the compost
moist, but not wet. Roots
will develop over about
6–8 weeks. When new
shoots appear, transplant
the cuttings into small pots
of multipurpose compost.
Set in a bright spot out
4 Fill a small plastic pot or seed tray with
cuttings compost. With a dibber, make
a hole in the compost. Place the cutting
of direct sun to grow on.
into the hole and firm around it gently.

202
PROPAGATE FROM
LEAF CUTTINGS
It may seem unlikely that a leaf can
produce roots, but many plants will
perform this trick. Begonias, like
the Rex begonia shown here, are the
most frequently used for leaf cuttings,
but you can also try Cape primroses, the
snake plant, and succulents, such as
Kalanchoe and Echeveria. These other
plants require slightly different

methods (see opposite).
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
PLANT
• Mature plant with large healthy leaves
OTHER MATERIALS
• Cuttings compost
• Perlite
TOOLS
• Sharp knife or secateurs
• Cutting board
• 12cm (5in) plastic pots
or small seed tray
• Clear polythene bags and
rubber bands 1 Select a healthy
mature plant with
plenty of large leaves.
• Small watering can with
Water it well about
a rose attachment
30 minutes before
• Small pots
taking your cuttings.
• Spoon
2 Select a large
leaf and, using a
sharp knife, remove
it at the base of the
leaf stem. Place on a
clean cutting board.
203
3 Cut out a small circular

section around the
stem and discard. Divide
4 Fill a small pot or seed tray with
cuttings compost and a handful
of perlite. Press down gently to
the leaf into sections about remove any air pockets. Carefully
2cm (¾in) long, each with push the leaf segments in, so they
veins running through are standing up with the veins in
them (veins may be more contact with the compost.
visible on the reverse).
LEAF CUTTING METHODS

FOR OTHER PLANTS
Cape primrose leaves should
be cut either side of the midrib
vein. Discard the midrib, and insert
each side of the leaf into cuttings
compost with the cut side down.
Then follow steps 4 and 5.
Snake plants can be propagated

by cutting a young, healthy leaf
horizontally into 5cm (2in) sections.
Take each of the sections and plant
the edge that was closest to the
base of the original leaf into cuttings
compost. Then follow steps 4 and 5.
6 Seal the pot with a plastic bag

secured with a rubber band and
leave in a warm area out of direct sun.
Succulent leaves should be kept
whole and set aside for 24–48 hours
until the cut ends dry out. Insert these
Cuttings take about 6–8 weeks to form
ends into pots filled with a 2:1 mix of
new leaves and roots. When 2–4 leaves
cactus compost and sand, then add
emerge, use a spoon to remove each
some grit on top. Do not cover the
5 Using a small can fitted with rose

attachment, water the cuttings to
help to settle the compost around
cutting, keeping the roots intact, and
transfer into small pots of multipurpose
compost. Water well, and set in a warm,
cuttings. When 2–4 new leaves have
emerged, plant them into small pots
of cactus compost, water lightly, and
them. Ensure excess water drains bright spot out of direct sun to grow on. place in a bright position to grow on.
away, or the cuttings could rot.
204
PROPAGATE WITH
WATER
Quick and easy to do, this is a great propagation
method for beginners. It is also fun for children,
as they can watch the roots developing on the
cut stems day by day. A large number of house
plants can be increased in this way, especially
those with soft, pliable stems, such as the African
violet (used here), devil’s ivy, and species of
Peperomia and Pilea.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
PLANT TOOLS
• Mature healthy plant • Scissors, sharp clean
1
knife, or secateurs Choose a healthy non-flowering stem and
OTHER MATERIALS • Glass or jar remove it at the base with a knife, scissors or
• Multipurpose • Small pots with secateurs. Cut the stem below a node (bump
compost drainage holes on the stem) if there is one.
2 Ensure the leaf has a clear

portion of stem at least
5cm (2in) long. If the stem has a
3 Place the cutting in a glass of water,
ensuring the leaf or leaves are not
submerged; rest them on the sides.
4 When a good root system has
developed in the water, transplant
each cutting into a small pot of
number of leaves growing from After a few weeks, roots will grow from multipurpose compost. Grow on in
it, remove the bottom sets to the base of the stem. a bright area out of direct sunlight.
leave the lower stem clear.
205
1 Water the plant

about an hour
before removing it
from its plastic pot.
PROPAGATE BY Using your fingers,
remove some of the
DIVIDING PLANTS compost from the
root ball, so you can
see more clearly
Some plant varieties produce a network of
where the stems are
fibrous roots that throw up new stems around
attached to the roots.
the sides of the plant. If you see you see new
shoots growing around the base of a mature
(“parent”) plant, use this simple method to divide
it up to make two or three new ones. Here, we
have divided a snake plant; other suitable
plants that are easy to divide include cast
iron plants, asparagus ferns, Boston ferns,
peace lilies, and most Goeppertia.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
PLANT TOOLS
• Mature healthy plant • Watering can
with shoots growing • Sharp, clean knife
around the sides • Plastic pots that match
the size of the root balls
OTHER MATERIALS
2 If possible, tease apart the new shoots

from the parent plant, ensuring that plenty
of roots remain attached to both sections.
3 If the root ball is

too congested,
use a sharp knife to
cut it into sections,
ensuring that the
stems all have some
roots (severing a
few roots is fine).
4 Fill new pots with

multipurpose compost.
Plant the divisions in the
pots, taking care not to
damage the roots. Set them
at the same level they were
growing at in their original
pot; do not bury the stems.
Water, and set in a warm,
bright spot out of direct sun.
206
1 Check that the

offsets around the
base of the plant are
between one-third
PROPAGATE FROM and one-half of the
size of the parent
OFFSETS before removing
them. These will root
more successfully
Offsets are young plantlets (known
than younger offsets.
as “pups”) that grow from the parent
plant. Some plants produce offsets that
replace the parent when it dies after
flowering; this is the case for all
bromeliads (shown here), as well as
some cacti and succulents. Mature
spider plants, meanwhile, regularly
produce offsets from long cascading

stems, which can be potted up to create
new plants (see opposite).
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
PLANT
• Mature, flowering bromeliad with
offsets growing around the base
OTHER MATERIALS
• Hormone rooting powder

• Cactus compost (or a 2:1 mix
of soil-based compost and sand)
• Perlite
TOOLS
• Sharp clean knife
2
• Soft clean brush Carefully remove the plant from
• 10cm (4in) plastic pots its pot. With a sharp knife, cut
• Short stick for staking off the offset close to the parent.
• Small watering can with Try not to damage the parent plant;
a rose attachment it can be repotted if it has not died
back, as it may yet go on to produce
more offsets.
3 If there is a papery leaf

covering the end of the
offset, pull this back to reveal
the base and dust with hormone
rooting powder. Do not worry if
the base does not yet have roots;
they are not essential for success
at this stage, as the powder will
encourage root growth.
207
POTTING UP “SPIDER” OFFSETS

Spider plants are easy to propagate from the
offsets (known as “spiders”, which give the plant
its name). These grow at the ends of long stems
that cascade down from the parent plant.
1 Wait until your plant has produced a few

small leafy offsets at the tips of the cascading
stems. Look for those that are healthy and have
a few sets of leaves.
4 Fill a 10cm (4in) plastic pot with cactus compost mixed

with a handful of perlite. Insert the base of the offset
into the compost, taking care not to bury too much of the
stem, which may rot. Water lightly to settle the compost
around the offset.
2 Select an offset with a tiny root growing
from the base. Fill a small plastic pot with
cuttings compost, and set the offset into the
5 If the offset is too

heavy to stand up
on its own, stake it with
compost; do not bury it too deeply.
a short stick. Set the

pot in a bright position
out of direct sun, and
keep the compost moist,
but not wet. Roots will
develop after a few weeks.
Repot when new shoots
appear, following the
advice for your bromeliad
in the Plant Profiles
chapter (see pp102–105).
Offsets take 2–3 years
3 Do not cut the offset from its parent yet.
Keep the compost moist, and wait for
new shoots to appear. This is a sign that the
to mature and flower. offset has made its own root system, and you
can then cut it free from the parent plant.
208
PROPAGATE FROM
SEED
Raising plants from seed is easier
than you may think, but be prepared
to pamper the seedlings for a couple
of months while they are developing
into mature plants, as any periods of
drought could kill them. Annual plants
(which grow, flower, and die in the same
year) are good choices for beginners,
1 Almost fill a seed tray with
2 Cover the seeds with vermiculite
and include the Persian violet, busy damp seed compost. Press or a very thin layer of sieved
lizzies, and coleus (shown here). the upturned lid of the seed tray seed compost. Label, pop on the
Buy fresh seeds every year for on top to create a flat surface lid, and set in a bright area out of
the best results. and to remove any air gaps. Sow direct sun; the seeds need light
seeds evenly on the surface. to germinate.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
PLANT
• Packet of house plant seeds
OTHER MATERIALS
• Seed and cutting compost

• Vermiculite
TOOLS
• Small seed tray with clear plastic lid
• Sieve, for compost (optional)
• Plant labels
• Small spoon
• Module seed tray
or small plastic pots
• Watering can fitted with
a rose attachment
• Larger pots
3 Keep the compost moist, but not wet. Remove

the lid as soon as the first leaves emerge, and
leave the seedlings to grow on until they have
formed 4–6 new leaves.
209
4 Fill a module seed tray or plastic pots with seed

compost. Make a hole in the compost with the
spoon, then use it to scoop out a seedling, keeping
5 Gently firm around the base of the seedling.
Repeat until the whole tray is filled with seedlings,
then water with a can fitted with a rose attachment.
its roots intact. Hold it by its leaves and plant it into Keep the compost moist but not wet; overwatering
one of the modules. may rot the seedlings.
6 Place the tray or pots of seedlings in a warm,

bright area out of direct sun to grow on. Turn
them every day or two so that the plants grow
7 When the seedlings are about 10–15cm (4–6in)
tall, transplant them into larger pots of multipurpose
compost. Nip out the stem tips to encourage bushier
evenly and do not stretch towards the light and growth (see p198). They will soon grow into mature
become tall and leggy. plants, ready to display.
210
WHAT’S WRONG
CAUSES AND SOLUTIONS
Once you’ve identified the
most likely cause of your plant’s
WITH MY PLANT? ailment, turn to the following

pages to find the solution:
Care-based problems are usually

If your plant is not looking its best, this simple checklist the most likely cause of poor house
plant health. (pp212–13)
may help you to determine the potential cause. Inspect
Diseases can also be a potential
the plant carefully for symptoms and try to identify the cause; familiarise yourself with the
likely source of the problem, then take appropriate action. warning signs and learn how to
treat them. (pp214–15)
Most issues can be fixed with just a few care adjustments,
Pests are another possibility, so
so always try the simplest remedies first.
watch out for them and remove

them if you spot any. (pp216–19)
PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE SOLUTION PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE SOLUTION

check if the feed at the exact
over- or compost is too underfeeding recommended
underwatering dry or saturated frequency and
(see p213) quantity (see p213)
WHAT’S WRONG WITH MY PLANT?
mist the plant check if the

dry air (if the or set on a tray over- or compost is too
plant prefers of damp pebbles underwatering dry or saturated
high humidity) (see p187) (see p213)
YELLOW
BROWN OR
LEAF TIPS REDDISH
move to a cooler LEAVES move to a warmer
high temperatures/ cold draughts
area, and increase area (see p213)
too much sun
watering (see p213)
do nothing; the
feed at the exact natural shedding leaves of all plants
recommended of leaves turn yellow and fall
overfeeding
frequency and from time to time
quantity (see p213)
Pest damage check leaves for move to a cooler

insect pests high temperatures area, and increase
(see pp216–19) watering (see p213)
physical damage
CURLED
HOLES IN move to a more LEAVES check leaves
LEAVES due to people or pest damage for insect pests
protected area
pets brushing past (see pp216–19)
211
check the compost check if the

dark brown spots: over- or compost is too
is not saturated
overwatering underwatering dry or saturated
(see p213)
(see p213)
water more
dry patches: frequently to keep repot the plant into
underwatering the compost moist a container one or
(see p213) root-bound two sizes larger so
SPOTS ON roots can absorb
LEAVES WILTED water more easily
pale spots: use rainwater LEAVES
misting with or distilled water AND
hard water to mist the plant STEMS move to a cooler
high temperatures/ area, and increase
too much sun watering (see p213)
check leaves for
disease or diseases and pests
pest damage (see pp214–19)
check the leaves and
pest damage roots for insect pests
(see pp216–19)
PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE SOLUTION
environmental wait a few days;
change due to the plant should
repotting or soon recover PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE SOLUTION
SUDDEN new position
LEAF FALL
FURRY identify the disease
inspect roots GROWTH fungal diseases (pp214–15) and
pest damage for insect pests ON LEAVES treat as suggested
(see pp216–19) AND STEMS
mist the plant move into an area

dry air (if the too little light
or set on a tray with more sun
plant prefers (see p212)
of damp pebbles
high humidity)
(see p187)
feed at the exact

check if the over- or recommended
under- or compost is too underfeeding frequency and
overwatering dry or saturated quantity (see p213)
(see p213) NO
FLOWER FLOWERS
BUDS FALL mist the plant if it
dry air or compost likes high humidity
check advice and and check if the
wrong temperature move if too hot or compost is too dry
too cold (see p213) (see p213)
check buds, stems repot to a smaller

and leaves for pot; some plants
Pest damage insect pests pot too big
only flower when
(see pp216–19) roots are restricted
212
DEALING WITH
CARE-BASED PROBLEMS
Most house plant health issues are simply the result of incorrect
care, and in most cases they are easily fixed. Once you have
identified the most likely cause of the problems (see pp214–15),
use this guide to find the best ways to bring it back to health.
CARE COMES FIRST

To keep your plant thriving, follow the care advice given
in the Plant Profile chapter (see pp100–75), and the tips
outlined here if it starts to show any signs of poor health. Plants standing in
If problems persist a few days after you have taken action insufficient light will
to rectifiy them, the cause may lie elsewhere. Return to become misshapen
pp210–11 to see if a disease or pest may be the cause, as the stems stretch
towards the sun
then follow the suggested solutions. Remember that
plants will be more resilient to attacks if they are given
DEALING WITH CARE-BASED PROBLEMS
the right care and conditions. INSUFFICIENT LIGHT

THE PROBLEM Standing your plant in
enough light is critical to its health; too
GOLDEN RULES FOR KEEPING little sun can lead to tall, spindly stems
YOUR PLANTS HEALTHY and lopsided growth, yellow or pale
leaves, and few or no flowers.
1 Check the light, temperature, 5 Feed a plant according
watering, and fertilizing needs to its requirements – both THE SOLUTION Check that your plant is given the light
of your plants in the Plant over- and underfeeding it needs in the Plant Profiles chapter (see pp100–75).
Profiles chapter (see pp100–75). can be harmful. Prevent the stems reaching for the sun and growing tall
2 Plant in pots with drainage 6 Remove fallen leaves or and weak (“etiolated”), or lopsided, by turning the pot
holes and water so that the flowers from the compost, every few days.
compost does not become which may rot and lead
waterlogged. to fungal disease.
3 Place your plant in the right 7 Check the plant every
amount of light for its needs. few days for signs of pests TOO MUCH LIGHT
or diseases.
4 Stand the plant in the right
THE PROBLEM Even some sun-loving plants cannot
temperature, away from 8 Cut out any diseased
heaters, and provide good plant parts and remove tolerate the intense light of midsummer sun. Symptoms
ventilation. any pests promptly. include brown leaf tips, brown upper leaf surfaces,
and wilting.
THE SOLUTION Move your plant from a sunny window
or room to an area in diffused light, or hang net curtains
over windows.
213
TOO COLD UNDERWATERING UNDERFEEDING

THE PROBLEM Cold draughts can cause THE PROBLEM Compost that is THE PROBLEM Tell-tale signs of an
the leaves to turn yellow or red and then too dry can lead to wilting, brown undernourished plant include pale
fall off. Occasionally, leaves can also look leaf tips, yellow or red leaves, curled leaves, yellow foliage, poor overall
deformed due to a drop in temperature leaves, and falling flower buds, or growth, and no or few flowers.
halting normal growth. no flowers.
THE SOLUTION Feed your plants
THE SOLUTION Keep plants away from SOLVE IT Plants will recover quickly according to their care instructions in
cold draughts, such as hallways, and after dry compost is watered, and the Plant Profile chapter (pp100–75).
remove them from cold windowsills, they should perk up after a day or two. Do not be tempted to overfeed,
especially at night, in winter. Watering from below may be the best though, even if you think your plant
method if compost is very dry (see p184), is malnourished, as this could lead to
but guard against overwatering. reverse osmosis (see below), which
will also harm the plant.
OVERWATERING
THE PROBLEM The symptoms of
underwatering (above) can also be
a sign of overwatering, as the roots
begin to rot due to the excess moisture,
preventing them from taking up water.
Overwatering can also cause fungal
diseases (see pp214–15) and spots
on the foliage, caused by a condition
called “oedema”, where water-soaked
Move plants from cold windowsills patches on the leaves rupture and Pale or yellow
during the winter months. turn corky. leaves are often
the first signs
THE SOLUTION Pour away excess of nutrient
water in the plant’s decorative deficiency
waterproof pot or saucer, and repot
TOO WARM if its root ball is in a container with
no drainage holes. Then leave the
THE PROBLEM High temperatures plant to dry out on a draining board OVERFEEDING
can make the compost dry out, or tray filled with dry gravel.
dehydrating your plant, and may also THE PROBLEM Overfeeding can
reduce the humidity levels in the air. Oedema is cause similar symptoms to underfeeding
Symptoms can include brown leaf tips, caused by (above), since an excess of fertilizer can
over-watering
curled leaves, wilting, falling flower draw nutrients out of a plant’s cells in
and results
buds, or no flowers. in corky a process known as “reverse osmosis”.
patches It can also cause brown leaf tips.
THE SOLUTION Keep plants away on leaves
from hot, direct sunlight in summer, THE SOLUTION Flush the compost
and open windows or turn on the air through with plenty of plain water;
conditioning to lower temperatures. use rainwater or distilled water if that
Also water more frequently when is what your plant prefers (see the
temperatures rise to keep the compost Plant Profile chapter on pp100–75).
moist (but not too wet – see right), and Make sure that the plant pot has
move plants away from heaters and drainage holes so excess water and
radiators in winter. nutrients can escape easily.
214
DEALING WITH
COMMON
DISEASES
Even with the best care, plants can still succumb to
disease. If this happens, isolate the plant to prevent FUNGAL LEAF SPOT
the problem from spreading, identify the ailment,
THE PROBLEM Dark spots with yellow

then take appropriate action as soon as possible. edges appear on the leaves, and the
foliage may then fall off.
THE SOLUTION Remove affected leaves
PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN CURE as soon as you see them, along with any
foliage that has fallen onto the compost.
Among the most common causes of plant diseases are overwatering, Provide more ventilation around the plant
underwatering and lack of ventilation, which allow rots and other fungi to prevent reinfection, and treat persistent
to develop, so follow the advice given on p213 to keep yours healthy. problems with a fungicide.
If your plant still succumbs to disease, ventilate the room if controlling
it with a spray fungicide, and disinfect pots to prevent reinfection.
DEALING WITH COMMON DISEASES
POWDERY MILDEW DOWNY MILDEW DAMPING OFF

THE PROBLEM This disease produces a THE PROBLEM This fungal disease THE PROBLEM This affects seedlings,
white, powdery fungus on leaves, stems causes green, yellow, purple or brown where the ventilation is poor, or seeds
and flowers, and is often caused by lack blotches on the leaves, and a mould-like have been sown too thickly. Seedlings
of water and poor ventilation. growth under the foliage. The leaves collapse and quickly die, and a white
can also turn yellow and fall. fungal growth appears on the
THE SOLUTION Check that your plant is
compost.
not stressed due to underwatering, which THE SOLUTION Remove affected
increases the risk of infection. Remove parts, and bag and bin severely infected THE SOLUTION As soon as the
affected parts as soon as you see them, plants. Avoid wetting the leaves which seedlings emerge, remove any lid
and make sure the air is well ventilated. can increase the likelihood of mildew or plastic covering, so that air can
Apply a fungicide in severe cases. developing. There is no chemical cure. circulate. There is no chemical cure.
215
STEM AND
CROWN ROT
THE PROBLEM This fungal disease

turns stems from brown to black
around the compost line and this
discolouration can then travel
up the plant to the leaves. The
plant will begin to
show signs of
wilting and then
start to decay.
GREY MOULD SOOTY MOULD THE SOLUTION
Once symptoms
THE PROBLEM The first sign of this THE PROBLEM A black or dark brown show, it may be too
fungal disease is usually a fuzzy grey- fungal growth appears mainly on the late to halt the dieback
brown mould on the plant’s stems and leaves. It is caused by fungus growing of the plant. To prevent
leaves, which soon leads to their decay. on the sugar-rich honeydew produced this rot, check that the
by sap-sucking pests, such as aphids. compost is not soggy;
THE SOLUTION Remove affected parts
plant in a pot with
as soon as you see them, and provide THE SOLUTION Remove the pests
drainage holes and always
more ventilation around the plant. (see pp216–219) if possible, and
tip excess water out of the
Control with a fungicide as soon as you wipe off the fungus with warm
outer pot or saucer. There
see the mould, or the plant may die. water. There is no chemical cure.
is no chemical cure.
ROOT ROT RUST VIRUS

THE PROBLEM Often unnoticed until THE PROBLEM The rust-coloured THE PROBLEM Pale green or yellow
the plant wilts and will not recover pustules caused by this fungal disease spots, streaks, mosaic patterns, or
after watering, this fungus is caused by appear mainly on the undersides of rings appear on the leaves, and overall
prolonged drought or overwatering. The leaves, which then turn yellow and die. growth may be stunted or distorted.
roots look dark brown or black, then rot. Rust mostly affects garden plants, but The flowers may also have white or
can infect pelargoniums grown indoors. pale streaks.
THE SOLUTION Bag up and bin affected
plants, as there are no chemical cures THE SOLUTION Avoid over-feeding, THE SOLUTION Bag up and bin infected
for this rot. Prevent it happening again which increases the risk of infection. plants promptly to prevent spread. Do
by ensuring your plants’ compost is not Remove affected leaves as soon as you not use a plant with a suspected virus for
too wet or dry. see them. There is no chemical cure. propagatation. There is no chemical cure.
216
DEALING WITH
COMMON PESTS
They may be small but, given the chance, many pests can quickly
ruin your precious house plants. By checking regularly for pests,
you can take action to remove them before they infest your plants,
which will make control more difficult.
KEEP UNWELCOME APHIDS

VISITORS AT BAY
THE PROBLEM Also known as
Plant pests can enter your home green- or blackfly), these common
on new house plants that you have sap-sucking insects can grow to
bought in, so when buying, always up to 7mm (1⁄4in) long. They cause
check for them on the leaves, stems, distorted or curled leaves, stunted
and flowers, and look for insects flower buds, and poor overall growth.
crawling on the compost. Open Aphids also excrete a sticky honeydew,
windows and doors also offer pests which can lead to the growth of sooty
DEALING WITH COMMON PESTS
a route inside, but by giving your moulds (see p215).

plants a health check every week,
you should be able to keep most THE SOLUTION Look for aphids on
under control by simply picking flower buds, stems (below) and under These tiny
them off. A few, such as spider mite, the leaves. To remove them, wear plastic flying insects
gloves and gently squeeze them, then cause silvery
are difficult to see with the naked discoloration
eye, so look out for the tell-tale wipe them off. For larger infestations, try
on leaves
symptoms and take the necessary a dilute soap-based solution or pesticide.
action to keep your plants pest-free. THRIPS
THE PROBLEM Also known as thunder

flies, these minute, winged, sap-sucking
insects are only 2mm (1⁄16in) long and
difficult to see unless they are flying
around. Their nymphs (juveniles) are
wingless. Damage results in dull green
leaves with a silvery discoloration and
tiny black dots on the upper surfaces.
They also cause distorted shoots and
flower buds, while the flowers may have
white markings and lose their colour,
or the buds may fail to open.
THE SOLUTION Use sticky traps to help
to ensnare these tiny insects. Pesticides
that control thrips are also available.
217
EARWIGS “ Check your

THE PROBLEM These nocturnal brown
insects are up to 15mm (1⁄2in) long, and
plants weekly
have distinctive pincers on their rear ends.
They eat flowers and leaves, reducing the
and, if possible,
latter to a skeleton of veins. While they
are not a common house plant pest, they FUNGUS GNATS pick off any
may attack some of the flowering types.
THE SOLUTION Inspect your plants at
THE PROBLEM Also known as sciarid insects you
find.”
flies, these greyish-brown insects grow
night, and remove any insects you find.
up to 4mm (1⁄4in). They are a nuisance,
Also check inside ornamental containers
but do not generally eat live plants;
or pots nearby, where they may be hiding
they simply fly around them and run
during the day.
over the compost in seedtrays. Their
larvae are white maggots with black MEALYBUGS
heads, slightly larger than the adults,
and feed on decaying leaves or roots,
THE PROBLEM These sap-sucking
Identify earwigs and occasionally seedlings, but rarely
pests look like tiny white woodlice,
by their long mature plants.
and cause distorted or stunted growth.
antennae and
pincers at THE SOLUTION Use sticky traps to You will first notice a fluffy white substance
the tail end ensnare the flies, and a drench of the in between the leaves and stems or
nematode Steinernema feltiae to control under the foliage – the bugs or their
the larvae. orange-pink eggs are hiding beneath
it. They also secrete honeydew, which
can lead to sooty mould (see p215),
STEM AND BULB
and a few species attack the roots.
EELWORMS
THE SOLUTION Often brought in
on new plants, check for bugs before
THE PROBLEM These microscopic,
buying. Remove affected parts or
worm-like nematodes are not visible
apply dilute solutions of soap-based
to the naked eye, yet they can cause
products or methylated spirits with a
severe damage, feeding on the plant’s
brush (test a small area first to check
fluids and leading to distorted leaves, Leafhoppers that it will not harm the plant). Or use
often with yellow blotches. The stem cause leaves
to become pheromone lures to trap the adult
tips and buds may also turn black and
lightly mottled males and disrupt breeding. Throw
die. Eelworms can infect bulbs, too,
out badly infested plants; pesticides
leading to similar symptoms in the
rarely work.
foliage, as well as yellowish swellings LEAFHOPPER A fluffy white
or specks on the undersides of leaves. substance hides
mealybugs and
THE SOLUTION Remove affected THE PROBLEM These small, pale green their eggs
plant parts as soon as you see them, insects are about 3mm (1⁄8in) long, and
and buy firm, healthy looking bulbs can jump from leaf to leaf, flying short
from reputable suppliers. There are distances when disturbed. The creamy
no chemical controls. white, wingless nymphs (juveniles) and
their white cast skins can be easier to
Eelworms spot than the adults. Both cause a pale
cannot be
mottling on leaf surfaces, but the damage
seen by the
naked eye; does not seriously affect the plant.
look for
distorted
THE SOLUTION Leave the pest
yellow leaves uncontrolled, as it rarely causes
instead serious symptoms.
218
ROOT APHIDS SPIDER MITE

THE PROBLEM These aphids look like THE PROBLEM Also known as red
greenflies, and feed on plants’ roots, spider mite, this tiny sap-sucking insect
sucking the sap from them, just like produces a mottled appearance on plant
those that live above the soil. However, leaves. The foliage also loses its colour
because they are hidden, you will notice and may then fall off; heavy infestations
the symptoms before the pests. Leaves can eventually kill the plant.
will become stunted, wilt, and turn yellow
THE SOLUTION Remove and bin affected
as the insects destroy the roots.
parts promptly; also bin severely infested
THE SOLUTION If watering does not plants to prevent the pest spreading.
revive a wilting plant, check for root Misting plants regularly can reduce
aphids in the soil. Try washing off the attacks, but may not eliminate the pest
compost and aphids outside, then completely. You can also use a pesticide.
repot in fresh compost, as there is
no chemical control. While spider

mites are too
small to see,
mottled leaves
signal their
presence
SCALE INSECTS
THE PROBLEM Scales or shell-like
bumps up to 1cm (1⁄2in) in length appear
DEALING WITH COMMON PESTS
on stems or beneath the leaves. You may

also spot the white, waxy eggs. These SLUGS AND SNAILS
sap-sucking insects cause distorted
and weak growth, and secrete sugary
THE PROBLEM You will probably be
honeydew, which can lead to the growth
familiar with these slimy molluscs, which
of sooty moulds (see p215).
eat holes in leaves and munch through
THE SOLUTION Remove affected parts, stems. While they mostly affect outdoor
or apply dilute solutions of soap-based plants, they can enter your home on
products or methylated spirits with a new plants or through open windows.
Root aphids suck
paint brush (test a small area first to
the moisture from THE SOLUTION You can normally see
roots, causing them check that it will not harm the plant).
these pests on house plants, or find
to wither and die Dispose of heavily infested plants.
them lurking in their ornamental pots.
Pick them off and dispose of them.
“ Some pests are too

small to see easily; check
the plant for symptoms
of infestation instead.”
219
WHITEFLY
“ Watch out for grubs and nymphs THE PROBLEM These white, winged,
sap-sucking insects are easy to see, even
– these can often be just as bad, though they are just under 2mm (1⁄16in)
in length. Clouds of flies rise up when
if not worse, as the adult pest.” disturbed, and you may also spot
the white, scale-like nymphs on the
undersides of leaves. Whitefly causes
distorted leaves and buds, and stunted
growth. Both adults and nymphs excrete
honeydew, which can lead to black sooty
mould (see p215).
CATERPILLARS THE SOLUTION Hang sticky sheets near
plants to trap the adults or spray the flies
THE PROBLEM Not many house plants with a dilute soap-based solution, which
are affected by these pests; the most prevents them from flying and disrupts
common indoors is the Tortrix moth breeding. Also try standing affected plants
caterpillar, which binds leaves together outside in summer where beneficial
with fine webbing (below), causing them insects will help to control them, or use
to dry up and turn brown, then a pesticide.
fall off. Other caterpillars eat holes
in the leaves, and you will see them
usually lurking under the foliage.
THE SOLUTION Pick off caterpillars,
or press the affected leaves together The root-eating
to kill the insects and pupae. For grubs (right)
heavier infestations, use a pesticide cause more
that controls caterpillars; ventilate the damage than
the adult
room when applying it. vine weevils
VINE WEEVILS
THE PROBLEM The adult black weevils
are about 9mm (1⁄2in) long and easy to
spot. They nibble leaves, making notches
along the margins, but do little serious
damage. The white, C-shaped, legless
grubs with brown heads (about the same
size as the adults) are the real problem
because they eat the roots, causing plants
to collapse and die.
THE SOLUTION Shake plants to dislodge
the adults or trap them with sticky barriers
around the outer pots. Try to catch the
slow-moving weevils before they lay
eggs in spring and summer. If you see
the grubs, try hosing the roots outside
to remove them, then repot in fresh
compost, or apply the nematode
Steinernema kraussei in autumn.
220
INDEX
A B cape primrose 125, 203 crown rot 215
Abutilon × hybridum 116 bamboo palm 133 cape sundew 143 Cryptanthus bivittatus AGM 104
Adiantum raddianum 126 Barbados aloe 168 capillary matting 186 C. zonatus 104
Aechmea chantinii 102 Beaucarnea recurvata AGM carnivorous plants 40, 142–45, Ctenanthe burle-marxii 149
A. fasciata AGM 103 130 185, 191 Curcuma alismatifolia 107
Aeonium haworthii 166 Begonia 148, 202–203 Caryota mitis 131 curled leaves 210
A. ‘Zwartkop’ AGM 167 benzene 46, 47 cast iron plant 147 Cycas revoluta 132
aerial roots, misting 185 Billbergia nutans 104 caterpillars 219 Cymbidium species and hybrid
Aeschynanthus pulcher 134 bird of paradise 124 Cephalocereus senilis 162 111
African daisy 119 bird’s nest fern 127 Cereus forbesii 163
African spear 158 black aeonium 167 Ceropegia linearis subsp. D
African violet 123 blackfly 216 woodii 135 daffodils 108, 199
Agave americana AGM 167 blushing bromeliad 105 Chamaedorea elegans 131 damping off 214
A. Victoria-reginae 167 boat lily 160 Chihuahua flower 170 Darlingtonia californica 142
Aglaonema commutatum 146 Boston fern 128 China doll plant 158 date palm, miniature 133
air plants 40, 174–75, 185 Bougainvillea × buttiana 135 Chinese evergreen 146 deadheading 194
air plant stand 56–59 Brassia species 111 Chlorophytum comosum 135 delta maidenhair fern 126
air purification, designing for Brazilian coleus 157 Christmas cactus 165 Dendrobium nobile hybrids
46–47 bromeliads 102–105, 185 Cissus rhombifolia AGM 136 112
Alocasia × amazonica AGM brown leaf tips 210 climbing plants 38, 42, 134–41 Desertscape 52–55
147 Brugmansia × candida 117 willow climbing frame devil’s ivy 136
Aloe aristata 168 bulb eelworms 217 68–71 devil’s tongue 164
INDEX
A. vera AGM 168 bulbous plants 106–109 Clivia miniata AGM 106 Dieffenbachia seguine 150
aluminium plant 157 bulbs, growing indoors Codiaeum variegatum 149 Dionaea muscipula 143
amaryllis 107, 198 198–99 coleus 159 diseases 178, 194, 210–19
Amazonian elephant’s ear 147 bunny ears cactus 165 colour 11, 22–25, 31, 38 Disocactus flagelliformis AGM
Amazonian zebra plant 102 busy lizzie 120 compost: choosing 190–91 163
American aloe 167 butterfly orchid 113 moisture levels 185 dividers, living space 92–95
Ananas comosus var. butterwort 144 waterlogged 192, 212 dividing plants, propagating
variegatus 103 button fern 129 containers 30–35, 192–93 by 200, 205
angel’s trumpet 117 buying house plants 178 contrast: of colour 23, 25 donkey’s tail 173
Anthurium andraeanum AGM and harmony 13 downy mildew 214
117 C of scale 15, 16 Dracaena fragrans 150
Aphelandra squarrosa 147 cacti 162–65, 191 of shape 19, 21 D. marginata 150
aphids 216, 218 Desertscape project 52–55 of texture 27, 28 dragon plant 150
areca palm 132 watering 184, 185, 186 Convallaria majalis AGM 107 drainage 178, 184, 192, 212
Asparagus densiflorus 127 California pitcher plant 142 Crassula ovata 168 Drosera capensis 143
Aspidistra elatior AGM 147 calla lily 109 Creeping fig 137 dry terrarium 84–87
Asplenium nidus AGM 127 cambria orchid 115 Cretan brake fern 129 dumb cane 150
cape ivy 140 crocodile fern 128 dwarf umbrella tree 159
cape jasmine 118 croton 149 Dypsis lutescens 132
221
E G Hoya species 137 lily of the valley 107, 199

earth star 104 Gardenia jasminoides AGM Humata tyermanii 128 lipstick plant 134
earwigs 217 118 humidity: designing for 40–41 Lithops species 172
Echeveria species 169 geranium 122 raising humidity levels 187 living space divider 92–95
eelworms, stem and bulb 217 Gerbera jamesonii 119 Hyacinthus 108, 199 living stone 172
Epiphyllum anguliger 163 Goeppertia crocata AGM syn. H. orientalis 108
Epipremnum aureum AGM 136 Calathea crocata 153 Hydrangea macrophylla 120 M
eternal flame 153 G. lancifolia syn. Calathea Hypoestes phyllostachya AGM macramé hanger 60–63
Euphorbia species 170 lancifolia 153 154 Madagascar dragon tree 150
Eustoma grandiflorum 118 G. makoyana syn. Calathea Mammillaria species 164
Exacum affine AGM 118 makoyana AGM 154 I Mandevilla × amoena ‘Alice du
golden ball cactus 165 Impatiens ‘New Guinea Group’ Pont’ AGM 138
F goosefoot plant 160 120 Maranta leuconeura var.
false shamrock 109 grape hyacinth 108 India rubber plant 152 kerchoveana 155
Fatsia japonica 151 grape ivy 136 Indian azalea 123 mealybugs 217
feeding 188–89, 212, 213 Graptopetalum bellum 170 Medinilla magnifica 121
fern arum 161 greenfly 216 J Microsorum musifolium
ferns 126–29 grey mould 215 Japanese aralia 151 ‘Crocodyllus’ 128
Ferocactus latispinus AGM 164 grit and gravel 185, 191 Jasminum polyanthum mildew 214
fertilizer 188, 189 grouping plants 187 Jerusalem cherry 124 Miltoniopsis hybrids 112
Ficus benjamina 151 Guzmania lingulata 105 Justicia brandegeeana AGM mind-your-own-business 140
F. elastica 152 Gynura aurantiaca 154 120 mindfulness, designing for 44
F. lyrata AGM 152 missionary plant 157
F. pumila 137 H K misting plants 185, 187
fiddle-leaf fig 152 hanging plants 36, 42, 183 Kalanchoe blossfeldiana AGM moisture levels 185
fishbone cactus 163 macramé hanger 60–63 171 money tree 155
fishtail palm 131 harmony: of colour 22, 24 K. pumila 171 monkey cups 143
Fittonia 153 and contrast 13 K. tomentosa 172 Monstera deliciosa 139
flaming Katy 171 of scale 14, 16 kentia palm 132 moonstones 172
flaming sword 105 of shape 18, 20–21 kokedama 40 mop-head hydrangea 120
florist’s cineraria 122 of texture 26, 28 kokedama fern 76–79 mosaic plant 153
flower bud fall 211 Haworthia attenuata ‘Striata’ moss picture frame 80–83
flower dust plant 171 171 L moth orchid 114
flowering maple 116 healthy plants: golden rules lace aloe 168 mould 215
flowering plants 116–25 for 212 Lantana camara 121 mulch 185
flowers: encouraging 194 health checks 178 large plants, caring for 193, 194 Muscari species 108
lack of 211 heart-leaf 139 leafhoppers 217
foliage plants 146–61 hearts on a string 135 leaves: cleaning 181 N
formaldehyde 46, 47 Hibiscus rosa-sinensis 119 pale leaves 192 Narcissus species 108
foxtail fern 127 Hippeastrum hybrids 107 propagating from leaf natal lily 106
friendship plant 104 holes in leaves 210 cuttings 200, 200–203 nature, as inspiration 12
fungal leaf spot 214 horticultural sand 191 signs of pests and diseases Nelly Isler 113
fungus gnats 217 houseleek 173 210–11 Neoregelia carolinae f. tricolor
furry growths 211 Howea forsteriana 132 light 36–39, 180–81, 212 105
222
Nepenthes hybrids 143 Pellaea rotundifolia AGM 129 Q shape 10, 18–21, 30, 194–95
Nephrolepis exaltata AGM Peperomia argyreia 156 Queen Victoria century plant shrimp plant 120
128 P. caperata 156 167 Siam tulip 107
never-never-plant 149 Pericallis Senetti Series 122 silver-inch plant 141
nitrogen (N) 188 perlite 191 R silver jade plant 168
nobile dendrobium 112 Persian violet 118 rabbit’s foot fern 128 silver vase plant 103
North American pitcher plants Peruvian apple cactus 163 Radermachera sinica AGM 158 size 10, 14–15
144–45 pests 178, 210–19 radiator plant 156 slipper orchid 114
nutrients 188 Phalaenopsis hybrids 114–15 rattlesnake plant 153 slugs and snails 218
Philodendron scandens 139 red passion flower snake plants 159, 203
O P. xanadu 156 reddish leaves 210 Solanum pseudocapsicum 124
offsets, propagating from 200, Phoenix roebelenii AGM 133 repotting 192–93 Soleirolia soleirolii 140
206–207 phosphorus (P) 188 Rhapis excelsa 133 Solenostemon scutellarioides
old man cactus 162 picture frame, moss 80–83 Rhododendron simsii 123 hybrids 159
Oncidium hybrids 113 Pilea cadierei AGM 157 root aphids 218 sooty mould 215
Oncidopsis Nelly Isler gx 113 P. peperomioides AGM 157 root-bound plants 178, 192 space, designing for 42–43
open bottle terrarium 64–67 pincushion cactus 164 root rot 215 Spathiphyllum wallisii 124
Opuntia microdasys AGM Pinguicula Mexican hybrids rose of China 119 sphagnum moss 191
165 144 rose grape 121 spider mites 218
orchid cactus 163 pinwheel 166 rot 185, 215 spider orchid 111
orchids 110–15, 191 pitcher plants: California rust 215 spider plant 135, 206, 207
how to make orchids pitcher plant 142 spineless yucca 161
reflower 196–97 North American pitcher S spots on leaves 211
wood-mounted orchid 88–91 plants 144–45 sago palm 132 staghorn ferm 129
Oxalis triangularis 109 Platycerium bifurcatum AGM Saintpaulia cultivars 123 stem cuttings, propagating
INDEX
129 Sansevieria cylindrica 158 from 200–201

P Plectranthus oertendahlii AGM S. trifasciata var. laurentii stem eelworms 217
Pachira aquatica 155 157 AGM 159 stem rot 215
Pachyphytum oviferum 172 polka dot plant 154 Sarracenia species and hybrids Stephanotis floribunda 141
painted leaf begonias 148 pollutants 46 142–43 Strelitzia reginae 124
palms 130–33 pomegranate 122–23 scale 10, 14–17, 30 Streptocarpus hybrids 125
panda plant 172 pony tail palm 130 scale insects 218 string of pearls 140
pansy orchid 112 potassium (potash) (K) 188, scarlet star 105 Stromanthe sanguinea
paper flower 135 189 Schefflera arboricola AGM 159 ‘Triostar’ 160
Paphiopedilum ‘Maudiae powdery mildew 214 Schlumbergera × bridgesii 165 succulents 166–73, 191
Femma’ 114 prairie gentian 118 Sedum morganianum 173 Desertscape 52–55
parlour palm 131 prayer plant 155 seeds, propagating from 200, propagating 203
Parodia leninghausii AGM 165 propagating plants 36, 208–209 succulent wreath 72–75
Passiflora racemosa AGM 139 200–209 Sempevivum species 173 watering 184, 185, 186
peace lily 124 propagation shelf 96–99 Senecio macroglossus sudden leaf fall 211
peacock plant 154 pruning 194–95 ‘Variegatus’ 140 sunlight 180, 181
peat 190 Pteris cretica AGM 129 S. rowleyanus 140 Swiss cheese plant 139
pebbles 38, 187 Punica granatum 122–23 senses, designing for the 44 Syngonium podophyllum
Pelargonium species 122 shade 180, 181 AGM 160
223
T X ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
tail flower 117 Xanadu philodendron 156 Fran Bailey would like to give a big thank you to Amy
temperature 182–83, 212, 213 Slack and Philippa Nash at DK for their encouragement
tender euphorbia 170 Y and support; to Nigel Wright and Rob Streeter whose
terrariums 32, 42 yellow leaves 210 vision and expertise really brought the projects to life; and
dry terrarium 84–87 yellow sage 121 to Katie Mitchell (@bymekatie) for her macramé expertise.
open bottle terrarium 64–67 Yucca elephantipes AGM 161
texture 11, 26–29, 31
Zia Allaway would like to thank the whole team at
thrips 216 Z DK for their dedication to the detail in producing this
thunder flies 216 Zamioculcas zamiifolia 161
book, with particular thanks to editor Amy Slack for
Tillandsia 174–75 Zantedeschia species 109
her support with the words and her infinite patience,
tool kit 179 zebra plant (bromeliad) 104
and to Christine Keilty, Mandy Earey, and Philippa
Tradescantia spathacea 160 zebra plant (foliage plant) 147
Nash for their beautiful designs. Thanks also to
T. zebrina 141
photographer Rob Streeter and stylists Nigel Wright
trailing plants 134–41
and Janice Browne of XAB Design for the stunning
images, and to Managing Editor, Stephanie Farrow
V for commissioning her and scrutinizing each page
vanda orchid 115
to ensure the quality was never compromised. And
variegated pineapple 103
thanks to Christopher Young of the Royal Horticultural
variegated snake plant 159
Society for his editorial input and fact checks. Last
velvet plant 154
but not least, a huge thank you to her husband Brian
Venus fly trap 143
North and son Callum Allaway North for their patience
vermiculite 191
and support while she was writing this book.
vine weevils 219
DK would like to thank Julie Aylett, Kathy Sanger,
viruses 178, 215
Sue Unwin, and Irene Morris at Aylett Nurseries
Vriesea splendens AGM 105
for their endless advice and assistance in sourcing
Vuylstekeara Cambria gx
plants; Jamie Song, John Bassam, and Jo for the
‘Plush’ 115
hire of their homes; Jan Browne at XAB Design for
behind-the-scenes help with co-ordinating photoshoots;
W Rosamund Cox and Emma Pinckard for editorial
water: propagating with
assistance; and Vanessa Bird for indexing.
96–99 200, 204
watering 184–87, 213 DK would also like to thank the following for their
waterlogging 192, 212 kind permission to reproduce their photographs:
watermelon pepper 156 (Key: a-above; b-below/bottom; c-centre; f-far;
weeping fig 151 l-left; r-right; t-top)
wellbeing, designing for 44–49
GAP Photos: 33tc, Martin Hughes-Jones 33tr, Dianna
whitefly 219
Jazwinski 45br, Lynn Keddie 21bl, Howard Rice 36br,
wick systems 186
Friedrich Strauss 17tr, 17bl, 29tl, 29ftl, 33bl, 37bl,
willow climbing frame 68–71
Visions 20br.
wilting 178, 192, 211
All other images © Dorling Kindersley
wood-mounted orchid 88–91
For further information see: www.dkimages.com
wreath, succulent 72–75
224
ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Fran Bailey grew up on a cut flower nursery near York,
where her Dutch father Jacob Verhoef encouraged
her love of all things horticultural. After studying
at the Welsh College Of Horticulture, she moved
to London to work as a freelance florist. In 2006 Editor Amy Slack
she opened her first flower shop, The Fresh Flower Designers Philippa Nash
Company, in South London. In 2013 she expanded with Mandy Earey, Lee-may Lim
into house plants with the opening of her shop Senior jacket creative Nicola Powling
Forest, which she runs with her daughters, and Pre-production manager Sunil Sharma
which is packed to the rafters with lush greenery. DTP designer Rajdeep Singh
Producer, pre-production Robert Dunn
Senior producer Stephanie McConnell
Zia Allaway is an author, journalist, and qualified
Managing editor Stephanie Farrow
horticulturist who has written and edited a range
Managing art editor Christine Keilty
of gardening books for the RHS and DK, including
Art director Maxine Pedliham
the RHS Encyclopedia of Plants and Flowers, RHS
Publisher Mary-Clare Jerram
How to Grow Plants in Pots, and Indoor Edible Garden.
Zia also writes a monthly column on garden design Photographer Rob Streeter
for Homes and Gardens magazine and is a contributor Photographic art director Nigel Wright
to the Garden Design Journal. She runs a consultancy
service from her home in Hertfordshire and offers ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY
practical workshops for beginners. House plant consultant Christopher Young
Editor Simon Maughan
Christopher Young is the horticultural team leader of Publisher Rae Spencer-Jones
the Glasshouse at RHS Wisley, the Royal Horticultural Head of editorial Chris Young
Society’s flagship garden in Surrey. He is a passionate First published in Great Britain in 2018 by
plantsman with a particular interest in exotics and Dorling Kindersley Limited
ferns, and is also a member of the RHS Tender 80 Strand, London, WC2R 0RL
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Ornamental Plant Committee.

Copyright © 2018 Dorling Kindersley Limited
A Penguin Random House Company
10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
001–308068–Mar/2018
All rights reserved.
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in or
charity dedicated to advancing horticulture and promoting introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any
good gardening. Its charitable work includes providing form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying,
expert advice and information, training the next generation recording, or otherwise), without the prior written
of gardeners, creating hands-on opportunities for children permission of the copyright owner.
to grow plants and conducting research into plants, pests
A CIP catalogue record for this book
and environmental issues affecting gardeners.
is available from the British Library.
For more information visit www.rhs.org.uk ISBN: 978-0-2413-1759-4
or call 020 3176 5800.
Printed and bound in China
A WORLD OF IDEAS:
SEE ALL THERE IS TO KNOW
www.dk.com

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ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY

8 DESIGNING WITH HOUSE PLANTS 50 HOUSE PLANT PROJECTS

Science has proved it: house plants make us happier and

With so many different varieties on offer, there is a plant – or

And, once you’ve designed your plant-filled home, how exactly

space? The answer is to establish a visual connection between your

SCALE pp14–17 SHAPE pp18–21

“ Think of your design

COLOUR pp22–25 TEXTURE pp26–29

your displays to be successful, follow these key principles.

size and proportion of objects. A plant

Harmony of scale Contrast of scale

“ How do your house

Golden barrel cacti

1 The uniform scale of these three

your plant display trailing plants is given cohesion by

contrast and movement? You can lead

While every plant has its own particular

Tall, architectural, Domed, Unstructured,

Tall, architectural Tall, architectural

they create a natural,

Use the shapes of your plants to construct

too: greens, the predominant colour of

The colour wheel Adjacent colours Opposing colours

yellow-greens blue-greens blue-purples

“ Nature offers a wonderful

“ Colour is a powerful tool

1 The vivid orange moth orchid picks

While it can be a subtle design feature,

Bunny ears cactus

than denser, solid-leaved builds a strong relationship that is reinforced by

plants, so use more in 2 The Myrtillocactus (left) and rattail cactus

the different textures

TEXTURE CONTRAST OF TEXTURE

“ Like the accessories that

1 This rustic white tray harmonizes with the dusty

Use your imagination

If you’re lucky enough to have lots of bright

1 Combine a mixture of sun-loving plants of

Don’t despair if your home does not

1 Large, glossy-leaved foliage and climbing

Most moisture-loving plants need regular

1 Contrast the bright foliage of a bathroom

Any living space, large or small, offers

1 If you want to hang non-trailing plants from

especially in the places where you spend the most

than visual beauty. Plants aren’t just

inside poorly ventilated buildings. This polluted air can, in high

THE BEST PLANTS FOR AIR PURIFICATION

For formaldehyde: For both formaldehyde For benzene:

Bring the outside in

WHAT YOU WILL NEED

preferably with drainage holes

1 Water the cacti and other plants thoroughly by placing

3 While still in their pots, arrange the plants on top of

5 Using a spoon, carefully fill in any gaps between the

WATERING Water your cacti when the compost is completely

MAINTENANCE AND CARE Gently brush off any compost

6 Decorate the surface of the compost with

AIR PLANT STAND

WHAT YOU WILL NEED

• Untreated, rugged piece of wood with

1 If using ocean driftwood, make sure it has been