Houseplants of any size are definitely a decorating must-have in my book. Not only do they help circulate and clean the air, but it’s always nice to have something alive in your home. There are tons of options for small space-friendly houseplants, but it seems like size is always an issue. We have quite a few large indoor plants in our tiny bungalow, which means I’m often asked for tips on incorporating them into homes. I know it can feel daunting to bring a giant tree into your space, but these styling hacks will help you hoard plants with confidence!
image source: photography & styling by Jojotastic.
Styling Tips for Large Indoor Plants in a Small Space
Put them in a bathroom.
When I lived in a loft, the bathroom was the BEST place for tons and tons of indoor plants, especially big ones! They seemed to love the humidity. Plus, houseplants clean the air, so having a few in the bathroom is a great idea. Just imagine taking a relaxing soak in the tub and your view being an indoor jungle!
Use them to conceal switches, thermostats, outlets, etc.
If you’ve following the blog for a while, you may have noticed that my dracaena tree moves around (as evidenced in the 2 photos of it in this post!). That’s because I love to use it to cover up anything that isn’t photogenic or stylish like a light switch or outlets. Currently I’m using it to hide our thermostat!
Fill in awkward corners.
I feel like smaller homes have a tendency to have weird, awkward corners and nooks… but that’s just an opportunity to add more plants! A large houseplant can help anchor the room, create a focal point, and add texture. Don’t be afraid to splurge on a statement-making garden pot and fill it with a leafy, tall beauty. Then stick it in that awkward corner. Voila! Instantly, your space feels balanced and way less weird.
Think of them as art.
Having too many accents in a small space can feel overwhelming. A gallery wall and a grouping of large plants? Mayyybe too much. Instead, shift your mindset and view your houseplants as art instead!
Put them by a mirror.
To maximize your tall houseplant’s impact, try positioning it near a mirror. This will help the plant to look even bigger and more lush! This is an especially good hack if you’re on a budget.
Use them to add privacy or create separate in a room.
A grouping of large plants can easily help lend a touch of privacy, especially if you live in a loft or studio apartment. Group 3 or 4 large, potted houseplants together instead of using a room divider or screen. It’s like a living plant wall! I also have used large plants as a visual separation between spaces when I lived in a loft. My majesty palm helped divide the space between my living and dining areas.
My Favorite Large Indoor Plants (That Are Easy To Care For!)
Trust me, I know it is soooo tempting to get a fiddle leaf fig, but please don’t! They are notoriously hard to keep alive and honestly… I just don’t have the patience or skills. Instead, I recommend these large indoor plants as alternatives to a fiddle leaf that are much easier to keep alive:
- ficus tree
- tall cacti (warning: these can be pricy!)
- New Zealand laurel
- olive trees
- lemon trees (these can be finicky, too, but I’ve kept mine alive, so I assume everyone else can, too)
- birds of paradise
- majesty palms
- snake plant
- rubber tree
- split leaf philodendron
Which large indoor plant is your favorite and where does it live in your home?
