Are you looking to add a burst of color to your indoor plant collection? Well, look no further! Red indoor plants can be the perfect addition to your home decor. Not only do they bring a vibrant pop of color, but they also add a touch of elegance to your interiors. Let’s explore some stunning houseplants with red leaves that are sure to elevate the look of your home.
Key Takeaways
Types of Red Indoor Plants
1. Red Aglaonema
Botanical Name: Aglaonema spp
Height and Spread: 3-4 feet / 1-2 feet
The red aglaonema is a beautiful and easy-to-grow houseplant. Its striking green-red foliage makes it a standout choice for living rooms, coffee tables, and bedrooms. Remember to provide indirect light and water regularly without making the soil too soggy for optimal growth.
2. Poinsettia
Botanical Name: Euphorbia pulcherrima
Height and Spread: 1-2 feet / 1-2 feet
Poinsettias are a Christmas favorite and can make a bold statement in your home. The bold texture of their foliage is simply irresistible. To ensure their best growth, place them in bright light and maintain a temperature range between 65-75 F (18-24 C).
3. Coleus
Botanical Name: Solenostemon
Height and Spread: 1-3 feet / 1-2 feet
If you’re looking to bring a splash of color to your home, consider coleus plants. With their shades of red, magenta, and pink, they can truly brighten up any space. These plants thrive in full sun to partial shade and prefer well-drained and moist soil.
4. Angel Wings
Botanical Name: Caladium ‘Red Flash’
Height and Spread: 2-3 feet / 1-2 feet
The angel wings caladium variety features large heart-shaped leaves with vibrant shades of olive green, red veins, and pink spots. For optimal growth, keep them in part to full shade with moist, well-drained soil. Avoid letting the plant dry out completely.
5. Pencil Cactus
Botanical Name: Euphorbia tirucalli
Height and Spread: 4-5 feet / 1-2 feet
While the pencil cactus may have green foliage, it can change to a striking shade of red if you keep it in a small pot with plenty of sunlight. This plant produces red pigment on its foliage to protect itself from sunburn. Keep in mind that the sap of the pencil cactus is toxic!
6. Flamingo Lily
Botanical Name: Anthurium andraeanum
Height and Spread: 1-2 feet / 1 feet
The flamingo lily, also known as anthurium, adds a vibrant touch to any room with its bright-colored waxy red bracts. Not only does it look stunning, but it also has air-purifying qualities, making it a great addition to your home. Remember to protect it from harsh sun and direct sunlight.
7. Red-Edge Dracaena
Botanical Name: Dracaena Marginata ‘Red-Edge’
Height and Spread: 4-5 feet / 2-3 feet
The red-edge dracaena features beautiful green leaves with a striking shade of red on the edges. When grown in direct sun, the red color takes over the leaves completely. This bold plant is also on NASA’s list of top air-cleaning indoor plants. It can tolerate both full sun and shade.
8. Ti Plant
Botanical Name: Cordyline fruticosa
Height and Spread: 3-5 feet / 2-3 feet
The ti plant offers dark red-burgundy leaves variegated with red-pink shades. Its stunning appearance makes it a perfect choice for indoor decor. Keep in mind that it has moderate water requirements and should be kept away from direct sunlight.
9. Croton
Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum
Height and Spread: 3-5 feet / 2-3 feet
Crotons are famous for their vibrant foliage that adds a bold touch to any interior. Varieties like Mammy and Bush on Fire Croton offer a rich display of red hues. These plants thrive in indirect sunlight and prefer moist soil.
10. Red Veined Nerve Plant
Botanical Name: Fittonia verschaffeltii
Height and Spread: 4-7 inches / 14-20 inches
With its dark green leaves adorned with pronounced red veins, the red veined nerve plant is truly a spectacular houseplant. It prefers slightly acidic soil and should be placed away from direct light.
11. Red Star Dracaena
Botanical Name: Cordyline australis ‘Red Star’
Height and Spread: 4-6 feet / 2-3 feet
The red star dracaena features sword-like dark red leaves that add a touch of drama to any space. It grows at a moderate pace, making it suitable as an indoor plant. Place it near a south-facing window for optimal growth.
12. Polka Dot Plant
Botanical Name: Hypoestes phyllostachya
Height and Spread: 1 feet / 1 feet
If you’re looking for a houseplant that doesn’t require much sunlight, the polka dot plant is the perfect choice. It thrives in shady spots and adds a splash of color to your interiors with its red-blotted leaves. Place it in sunlight occasionally for a richer shade of red.
13. Rex Begonia
Botanical Name: Rex Begonia ‘Red Kiss’
Height and Spread: 1 feet / 1 feet
The red kiss rex begonia boasts magnificent deep red leaves with artistic black outlines, adding a touch of sophistication to any room. Ensure well-draining soil and partial sunlight to maintain its vibrant color.
14. Heuchera
Botanical Name: Heuchera ‘Forever Red’
Height and Spread: 7-8 inches / 10-12 inches
With its burgundy-red ruffled cut leaves, the ‘forever red’ heuchera lives up to its name. The creamy-white flowers that bloom from pink buds provide striking contrast against the foliage. Place it near an east-facing window and keep the soil moist for optimal growth.
15. Japanese Barberry
Botanical Name: Berberis thunbergii ‘Red Chief’
Height and Spread: 3-4 feet / 2-3 feet
While mostly grown as an outdoor plant, the Japanese barberry can be a successful houseplant if positioned in a well-lit spot. Its tolerance to shade makes it a versatile choice for indoor cultivation. Enhance its deep red color by placing it near a south-facing window.
Now that you know about these stunning red indoor plants, it’s time to add some color and excitement to your home decor. Experiment with different varieties and create a vibrant and inviting space to enjoy with family and friends. For more information and a wide selection of indoor plants, visit Ames Farm Center. Happy gardening!
