Are you looking to add a unique touch to your indoor garden? While common houseplants are beautiful, they can sometimes lack that extra spark of interest. That’s where houseplants with red leaves or red leaf variegation come in. These stunning plants can be the perfect addition to your indoor garden, providing a pop of color and adding intrigue to your space.
When choosing a houseplant with red leaves, there are a few things to consider. Take a look around your home or office and think about the kind of plant you want. Are you looking for something low-maintenance or a taller plant to fill a space with high ceilings? Once you have an idea in mind, it’s time to explore the world of red leafed houseplants.
Aglaonema ‘Valentine’
Scientific Name: Aglaonema Commutatum
Plant Type: Perennial Herb
Geographic Origin: Asian Subtropics and Tropics
Plant Size: 36″
Water Needs: Moderate
Sun Exposure: Partial Shade
The Aglaonema ‘Valentine’ features ovate-shaped leaves with a captivating combination of pink and red in the middle, surrounded by green splotches and smooth green edges. Not only are these plants visually stunning, but they also made NASA’s list of air-purifying plants for their ability to cleanse the air of toxins like benzene and formaldehyde. Place them in a bright room without direct sunlight, and make sure to keep the soil moist.
‘Black Star’ Nerve Plant
Scientific Name: Fittonia albivenis ‘Black Star’
Plant Type: Perennial Herb
Geographic Origin: Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru
Plant Size: 12-36″
Water Needs: Moderate to Heavy
Sun Exposure: Partial/Full Shade
The ‘Black Star’ Nerve Plant is a true showstopper with its dark blackish-green leaves adorned with reddish veins. This Fittonia cultivar can grow taller than many other houseplants and thrives in high humidity, making it an excellent choice for adding interest to a shady corner. Water regularly to prevent withering and use loamy soil with good drainage.
Blushing Bromeliad
Scientific Name: Neoregelia Carolinae
Plant Type: Perennial Herb
Geographic Origin: Brazil
Plant Size: 12″-18″
Water Needs: Moderate to Heavy
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
The Blushing Bromeliad is a unique houseplant that offers vibrant red leaves in the center, making it a standout in any room. These plants thrive in bright light but don’t require direct sunlight. Keep the central vase filled with water and make sure the soil remains damp. Use well-draining soil and adjust the mixture with peat, bark, sand, or perlite to create the perfect environment for this stunning plant.
These are just a few examples of the incredible variety of houseplants with red and variegated red leaves. Whether you choose an Aglaonema ‘Valentine’, a ‘Black Star’ Nerve Plant, or a Blushing Bromeliad, these plants are sure to bring a touch of color and interest to your indoor garden. So go ahead and explore the world of red leafed houseplants—your indoor garden will thank you!
To find these unique houseplants and more, visit Ames Farm Center.
