Tall Indoor House Plants: Selection and Maintenance Guide

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Bright indoor setting with a fiddle leaf fig beside a sunlit window and other houseplants.
Credit: pexels.com, Bright indoor setting with a fiddle leaf fig beside a sunlit window and other houseplants.

Adding tall indoor house plants to your space can be a great way to purify the air and boost your mood. They can grow up to 8 feet tall, making a big impact in a room.

To choose the right plant for your space, consider the amount of light it will receive. If your home gets plenty of direct sunlight, you can opt for plants like the Dracaena or the Bamboo Palm, which can thrive in bright conditions.

Tall plants like the Philodendron or the Peace Lily are great for low-light spaces, as they can tolerate less sunlight and still purify the air.

Regular watering is key to keeping your tall indoor house plant healthy and thriving.

Choosing the Right Plant

Choosing the right plant for your space is key to enjoying the benefits of tall indoor house plants.

Consider the lighting conditions in your home, as this will greatly impact the health and growth of your plant.

A vibrant field of tall plants with green leaves in Pabna, Bangladesh, showcasing nature's abundance.
Credit: pexels.com, A vibrant field of tall plants with green leaves in Pabna, Bangladesh, showcasing nature's abundance.

If your space receives bright, direct sunlight, a plant like the Ficus (up to 10 feet tall) or the Dracaena (up to 10 feet tall) would thrive.

However, if your space is dimly lit, a plant like the Philodendron (up to 8 feet tall) or the Pothos (up to 8 feet tall) would be a better choice.

Think about the temperature in your home as well, as some plants prefer warmer temperatures while others prefer cooler temperatures.

For example, the Bamboo Palm (up to 12 feet tall) prefers warmer temperatures between 65-75°F, while the Rubber Plant (up to 8 feet tall) prefers cooler temperatures between 55-65°F.

Plant Care Basics

To keep your tall indoor plants thriving, it's essential to understand their basic needs. Choose a location with ample space for your plant to grow without being cramped or obstructed.

When shopping for large plants, don't repot immediately. Wait until springtime, about once every 2 years, and use a slightly larger pot. Well-draining and aerated soil is also crucial, so consider adding perlite, coco coir, sphagnum moss, or orchid bark to prevent sogginess.

Credit: youtube.com, 12 Best LARGE HOUSEPLANTS to Grow - Low Maintenance Indoor Plants

Watering can be tricky, but there are three surefire ways to know when it's time: check if your plant looks wilted, use the finger test to see how dry the soil is, or invest in a soil moisture meter. Be patient, as tall indoor plants often grow more slowly than they would outdoors.

To keep your big plant from getting too big, prune it regularly to maintain your desired size. Prune away the parts that go beyond your ideal size, and don't be afraid to do it often – it's a simple solution to prevent overgrowth.

Fiddle Leaf Fig

The Fiddle Leaf Fig is a popular choice for indoor plants, and for good reason - its large, glossy leaves can add a touch of drama to any room.

This plant requires consistent sunlight to thrive, so place it in a bright spot, ideally an east-facing window.

Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Check the top 4 inches of soil to see if it's dry before watering thoroughly.

Fiddle Leaf Figs also appreciate a humid environment, so consider using a humidifier or placing the pot on a tray of wet pebbles to keep the humidity up.

Regularly wiping down the leaves with a damp cloth will help keep dust away and promote healthy photosynthesis.

Tips for Caring

Growing plant in pot on wooden stand near table with basket in aged house with brick wall
Credit: pexels.com, Growing plant in pot on wooden stand near table with basket in aged house with brick wall

Large indoor plants can thrive with minimal effort, but they do require some specific care. They need ample space, so choose a location that provides enough room for the plant to grow without being cramped.

Repotting is essential for tall plants, but do it during springtime about once every 2 years, using a slightly larger pot. This will give the roots enough room to grow.

Well-draining and aerated soil is crucial for tall plants. You can achieve this by adding perlite, coco coir, sphagnum moss, or orchid bark to the soil.

To boost growth, feed your large indoor potted plants with a balanced liquid fertilizer about once a month. If your plant is a flowering plant, use fertilizers rich in phosphorus.

Regularly dust the leaves to enable the plant to photosynthesize efficiently. This is especially important for tall plants that can grow more slowly indoors than they would in their natural outdoor environments.

Take a look at this: Cutting Back Large House Plants

Credit: youtube.com, Houseplant 101 | Houseplant Care Basics

The best way to determine when to water your huge floor plant is to check its moisture levels. Here are three surefire ways to know it's time:

  • Your plant looks wilted.
  • The finger test: Poke your finger into the soil, and it feels dry. Some plants like an inch or 2 of dryness, while others want 4-5 dry inches.
  • Use a soil moisture meter, which gives numerical feedback instead of tactile feedback.

The fertilization schedule depends on the plant, but usually, plants want to be fertilized once a month during spring through summer. Maybe just once or twice during the fall and winter. Some plants are hungrier, and some plants are on a diet, so check with your specific tall indoor plant before fertilizing.

By following these care tips, you'll be well on your way to becoming a pro at caring for your large indoor plants.

Pruning, Cleaning & Issues

Pruning is a must for tall indoor plants to maintain their shape. Use sterilized shears to remove dead leaves.

Keep the soil under your plant clean to prevent the growth of pests and diseases. It's a good idea to check big plants for sale for insects and treat with insecticide if needed.

Leggy growth in big leaf plants is a sign that they don't receive sufficient sunlight. This can be easily fixed by moving the plant to a brighter location.

Should I Repot My Plant?

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Repotting your plant can be a bit of a mystery, but it's actually quite straightforward.

Most big plants like to be repotted every year or two. Give it a pot that is only 1 or 2 inches bigger, as most house plants' roots like it cozy.

If you notice the roots growing down and out of the drainage holes, or up and pushing the plant out of the planter, it's time to repot. This is a clear sign that the plant needs more room to grow.

If your plant is top-heavy and keeps falling over, that's also a sign it's time for a bigger pot.

You can also repot if you don't want the plant to grow any bigger, just to refresh the dirt every year or two.

See what others are reading: How to Pot Indoor House Plants

Pruning, Cleaning & Issues

Pruning is a must for huge indoor plants to maintain their shape. Use sterilized shears to remove dead leaves.

Big plants can be a haven for insects, so check them carefully before bringing them home. Treat any infestations with insecticide if needed.

Leggy growth in big leaf plants is a sign they don't receive enough sunlight. This can be a problem if you're placing them in low-light areas.

Environmental Conditions

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Large houseplants can thrive in a variety of environments, but they do require some specific conditions to flourish.

For watering, it's best to water your large houseplants deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. This will help prevent overwatering and root rot.

Some plants, like palms and tall succulents, need bright, direct light, while others, like snake plants, can tolerate low light. Rotating your plants periodically can help ensure they get even light exposure.

Most large indoor plants prefer temperatures between 65-75°F, so keep them away from drafts and extreme temperatures.

For another approach, see: How to Help House Plants Winter

Best Place for My Plant

Plants don't like sudden changes in temperature or humidity, so avoid placing them near vents that blow hot or cold air.

To keep your plant happy, consider the lighting situation. For bright indirect light, which is perfect for most houseplants, place your plant a couple feet away from a bright window.

If a window with direct sunlight is out of the question, try placing your plant in front of a window with a sheer curtain. This will filter the light and prevent scorching your plant.

Placing your plant near a window with a tree outside can also work, as the tree's leaves will filter the light and provide a more gentle glow.

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Environmental Conditions

Book that has been left open on white table near big green ficus plant
Credit: pexels.com, Book that has been left open on white table near big green ficus plant

Most large houseplants require less frequent watering due to their larger soil mass, so try deep watering instead of frequent shallow watering.

Watering thoroughly and allowing the soil to dry slightly before watering again is a good approach for large plants. This helps prevent overwatering, which can be detrimental to their health.

Some big houseplants need more light than others, so choose a plant that fits the lighting conditions of your room. If you have a dark room, consider a large low-light indoor plant like a snake plant.

Rotating your large potted plants occasionally can help ensure they receive even light exposure. This is especially important for plants that prefer bright, indirect light.

Tall indoor plants have varying humidity requirements, so research the specific needs of your plant. For example, succulents like snake plants can thrive in dry air, while plants like the Swiss Cheese Plant prefer humid environments with over 50% humidity.

Temperatures between 65-75°F are ideal for most large indoor plants. Be sure to check if your large potted outdoor plants are frost hardy and overwinter them indoors if necessary to protect them from harsh weather conditions.

Large House Plants

Credit: youtube.com, 33 Large Indoor Plants for Home | Indoor Large & Tall Houseplants | Low Light Large Indoor Plants

Large house plants can thrive in your home with minimal effort, despite their intimidating size. They're a great way to purify the air and add some drama to your decor.

You don't need to be a green thumb to care for large house plants, but you do need to pay attention to their watering needs. Watering by a schedule won't cut it, as it depends on many factors like humidity, temperature variations, climate, season, soil type, and more.

To determine when to water, you can use the "finger test" by poking your finger into the soil and checking its dryness level. Some plants prefer 1-2 inches of dryness, while others want 4-5 inches. You can also use a soil moisture meter for more precise results.

To keep your big plants from getting too big, prune them regularly. Yes, you read that right - pruning is the solution, not just cutting them back when they're overgrown. Prune more often, and your plant will learn to control its growth.

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Credit: youtube.com, Top 5 Large Floor Plants

Some popular large house plants include the Dracaena Arborea, which grows slowly but can reach 7 feet tall, and the Dracaena Anita, also known as the Medusa plant, which can grow up to 10 feet tall. Both plants are relatively low maintenance and can thrive in bright, indirect light with warm temperatures and high humidity.

Here are some general watering guidelines for large house plants:

Monstera Deliciosa

Monstera Deliciosa is a beloved plant for its dramatic, hole-punched leaves that can grow quite large, giving any room a tropical feel.

This plant thrives in a warm climate with high humidity and indirect light, making it perfect for indoor settings where it can receive the right amount of moisture and shade.

Kentia Palm

The Kentia Palm is a low-maintenance friend that can thrive in a variety of conditions. She can handle neglect, drought, drafts, low light, and more without getting fussy.

Kentia Palm typically grows about 7 or 8 inches a year, and she usually tops out around 9 or 10 feet when grown inside. She's very friendly and chill, and she's happy to adapt to your lifestyle.

Consider reading: Ponytail Palm House Plants

Credit: youtube.com, Kentia Palm - Top houseplants 🌴

She likes bright indirect light when she's young, but once she's 5 years old or so, she can handle direct light too. Kentia Palm prefers regular watering, but she won't mind if you forget sometimes - just make sure the top inch of the soil is dry before watering again.

Kentia Palm is a flexible plant that can tolerate temperatures from 25 degrees (for a short time) to 100 degrees (as long as she's in the shade). She's a great choice for busy people or those new to plant parenthood.

Additional reading: Palm House Plants

Calamondin Tree

The Calamondin tree is a great addition to any room, with its 7-foot tall stature and powerful orchard vibe. It's also a great conversation starter, especially when it's in bloom and the flowers smell incredible, similar to orange blossoms.

This tree is a hardy one, tolerating temperatures down to 20 degrees, and it self-pollinates, producing fruit year-round. It's a great option for those who want a fruit tree that can thrive in cooler temperatures.

If this caught your attention, see: Curtain Fig Tree

Credit: youtube.com, Popular Citrus Plants That Do Well Indoors!

One thing to keep in mind is that the Calamondin tree needs moist soil, but also good drainage, so make sure to water thoroughly when the first one or two inches of soil are dry. This will help prevent root rot and keep the tree healthy.

You can put the Calamondin tree in bright indirect light, and it will do just fine.

Bird of Paradise

The Bird of Paradise is a showstopper, with leaves that can grow even bigger than the Fiddle Leaf's. She's a bit of a diva, but don't worry, she's actually pretty easygoing.

Her flowers are a stunning bright orange and blue, resembling the head of a crowned crane. They stay bright and charming for up to two weeks.

This plant can reach a whopping 10 feet tall, even indoors. Just be prepared for her complicated lighting needs.

She likes bright indirect light, but if you want her to flower more, you'll need to give her a bit more light. Just be careful not to scorch her leaves with too much sun.

Adonidia Palm

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The Adonidia Palm is a great choice for indoor spaces with lower ceilings, as it grows relatively slowly and doesn't require frequent pruning.

It's a low-maintenance plant that drops its old fronds, leaving behind "leaf scars" as a reminder of its past.

One of the unique perks of the Adonidia Palm is its festive appearance during Christmastime, when it sports little white blossoms that fall off to reveal tiny red berries.

It's no wonder it's earned the nickname Christmas Palm!

To keep your Adonidia Palm happy, make sure it gets at least 4 hours of direct sun every day – any less and it might not produce as many fronds or leaves.

Watering is also crucial, so keep an eye on the top 3-4 inches of soil and water thoroughly when it starts to dry out.

The Adonidia Palm also appreciates a humid environment, so consider placing it in a spot with a bit of moisture in the air.

Song of India

Credit: youtube.com, SONG of INDIA plant | Propagation and Care

The Song of India is a stunning addition to any room, with its long, straight stalks and bright green leaves that can grow up to 7 feet tall.

She prefers bright indirect light, so place her near a sunny window or use a sheer curtain to filter the light.

Overwatering is a major no-no, as it can lead to root rot, a common issue with this plant.

With proper care, the Song of India is a low-maintenance beauty that will thrive in your average garden.

If you live in an area with fluoridated water, consider using purified water to prevent fluoride sensitivity.

She's a pretty forgiving plant, but don't be surprised if she gets a bit leggy or spindly if she doesn't get enough light.

Marginata

The Marginata is a striking plant with long, skinny leaves that have a red border, making it a colorful addition to any room. Its leaves grow in clumps at the top of the tall stalks, resembling little pom-poms or porcupines.

Credit: youtube.com, Dracaena Marginata (Madagascar Dragon Tree) Care Guide and Growing Tips

This plant is relatively low maintenance, tolerating drought and requiring minimal care. It prefers bright, indirect light, but can thrive in a variety of conditions.

With proper care, the Marginata can grow to be quite tall, making it a great choice for entryways or rooms with high ceilings. Simply water it when the first 3-4 inches of soil dry out, and it'll be happy as can be.

A different take: Weeping Fig Plant Care

Arborea

Arborea is a slow-growing Dracaena that can live up to 7 feet tall. She's a great option if you're looking for a statement piece.

Arborea is also known as the African Dragon Tree, the Tall Dragon Tree, or the Slender Dragon Tree, but don't worry if she gets confused - she's still the same plant.

She's medium thirsty, so make sure to water her when the soil is dry for two or three inches.

Cane

If you're looking for a statement piece for your home, consider a Dracaena Cane. These plants can grow quite tall, with some varieties reaching 8 or 10 feet in ideal conditions.

Credit: youtube.com, Dieffenbachia Plant Care Guide | Dumb Cane Care

Dracaena Cane plants prefer bright, indirect light, making them a great choice for rooms with large windows. They're also relatively drought-tolerant, so you don't need to water them too frequently.

If you have a tall but narrow space, a Dracaena Cane is a great fit. They grow straight up, without getting too wide, making them perfect for corner planters or narrow hallways.

Expand your knowledge: Tall Narrow House Plants

How to Manage Big Plants

Big plants can be a bit overwhelming, but don't worry, they're not that difficult to manage. You just need to know what they need.

First, choose the right location for your plant. A big house plant needs ample space, so pick a spot that's not too crowded.

Repotting is essential for tall plants, but don't do it immediately. Wait until springtime, about once every 2 years, and use a slightly larger pot.

Well-draining and aerated soil is crucial for big plants. Add perlite, coco coir, sphagnum moss, or orchid bark to make the soil chunkier and prevent sogginess.

Consider reading: House Plants Bugs in Soil

Credit: youtube.com, How to Water a Large Indoor Plant

Pruning is the simple solution to keep your big plant from getting too big. Prune away the parts that go beyond your ideal size.

Some plants, like the Dracaena Reflexa, are sensitive to overwatering. They're prone to root rot, so make sure to water them sparingly.

If you live in an area with fluoridated water, consider using purified water for your plants. The Dracaena Reflexa, in particular, is sensitive to fluoride.

Proper watering is key to keeping your big plant healthy. Water when the soil is dry for two or three inches, and avoid overwatering.

By following these simple tips, you can keep your big plants thriving and looking their best.

Ready to See Something Huge?

If you're ready to see something huge, consider the Monstera Deliciosa, which can grow quite large with its dramatic, hole-punched leaves. It thrives in a warm climate with high humidity and indirect light.

Some plants can grow even bigger than expected, like the Bird of Paradise, which can reach 10 feet tall. Unless you live in a mansion, you might need to prune it regularly to keep it from getting too big.

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Credit: youtube.com, How To Grow Your Houseplants Big, FAST! How I Make My Plants Mature Quickly

Pruning is the simple solution to control a plant's growth, and it's not as scary as it sounds. You just have to prune more often, cutting away the parts that go beyond your ideal size.

The Dracaena Tarzan is a massive beast that grows up to 10 feet tall, and it's not afraid to take up space. Your guests will definitely notice him.

Big plants are air purification champions, and they can filter out nasty stuff like formaldehyde. The Janet Craig Cane is a great example, with its next-level air purification powers.

Functional and beautiful indoor plant life can promote happy and healthy living, and tall indoor plants can add a touch of drama to your space.

Plant Selection

Large house plants are impressive and can add a touch of greenery to any room. They create a relaxing atmosphere and are perfect for indoor spaces.

Some plants, like those at Hey Rooted, can grow quite tall and make a statement.

The ZZ Plant

Credit: youtube.com, ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas Zamiifolia) - Care Guide and Growing Tips and Tricks

The ZZ Plant is a large floor plant known for its resilience and elegant, arched stems.

One of the reasons it's so popular is that it's incredibly low-maintenance, making it perfect for busy people or those new to plant parenthood.

This plant can thrive in a range of lighting conditions, from bright to low light, making it a versatile choice for any room in your home.

Its ability to survive with infrequent watering means you can forget to water it from time to time without worrying about killing it.

Marginata Cane (Dragon Tree)

The Marginata Cane (Dragon Tree) is a striking plant with a narrow trunk and long, sword-like leaves featuring a striking red edge.

It prefers bright, indirect light, making it perfect for rooms with large windows or skylights.

This plant is relatively drought-tolerant, so you don't have to water it too often.

Just make sure the soil isn't too dry, and water when the first 3-4 inches of the soil dry out.

It's also a great air purifier, filtering out toxins and improving indoor air quality.

You can place it anywhere in your home that gets bright indirect light, making it a low-maintenance addition to your decor.

Additional reading: Water House Plants

Explore Our Selection

Credit: youtube.com, Plant Selection

Our selection of large house plants is truly impressive, adding a touch of greenery and creating a relaxing atmosphere in any room.

We have a variety of options to choose from, including the Ficus Altissima, which can grow up to 7 feet tall and has beautiful variegated leaves with neon green and yellow hues.

The Ficus Altissima loves indirect light, but can handle up to four hours of direct light a day, making it a versatile option for any space.

Rotating your Ficus Altissima regularly will ensure all its leaves get sunlight, promoting healthy growth.

For a more laid-back option, consider the Audrey Ficus, which can grow up to 10 feet tall and has lighter, brighter leaves that are perfect for cheering up a gloomy room.

The Audrey Ficus prefers bright indirect light and consistently moist soil, making it a great choice for busy plant parents.

Don't forget to clean her leaves regularly with a damp washcloth to keep her photosynthesis going strong.

Credit: youtube.com, Visual Guides for Plant Selection

If you're looking for a plant that's a natural air purifier, the Ficus Danielle is a great option, with its thickly clustered teardrop-shaped leaves.

This plant thrives in bright indirect light, but be careful not to expose it to too much direct light, which can burn its leaves.

To keep your Ficus Danielle happy and healthy, let the top 3-4 inches of soil dry out before watering her thoroughly, and consider running a humidifier or misting her daily.

For a pet-friendly option, check out the Ficus Alii, which can grow up to 10 feet tall and has beautiful banana-shaped leaves.

This easygoing Ficus loves humidity and can benefit from a pebble tray or a spot near a kitchen or bathroom.

Just remember to mist him frequently to keep him happy and thriving.

Yucca Cane

The Yucca Cane is a great choice for adding some drama to your space. It can grow up to two feet per year, which is quite impressive.

Credit: youtube.com, How to Care for a Yucca Plant ENGLISH GARDENS

Keep in mind that Yucca Cane has long, dagger-like leaves that are actually sharp. You'll want to place it in a spot where it won't get in the way of foot traffic.

This plant thrives in bright indirect light, which is a good thing since it's from the desert. It's super sensitive to overwatering, so make sure to let a few inches of soil dry out before watering again.

One thing to note is that Yucca Cane prefers lower humidity, so if you live in a dry climate, it might be a good fit.

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Lou Tarchiani

Senior Writer

Lou Tarchiani is a passionate writer, avid traveler, and animal lover. She has a diverse background, having worked in fields ranging from marketing to education. Her travels have taken her to over 20 countries, where she has immersed herself in local cultures and gained unique perspectives on the world.

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