and Pelargonium), and this group overlaps with some others discussed here. It's often debatable where to draw the line with stem succulents and non-succulent tuberous plants. Mostly like bright light. Size extremely variable. Vary in their temperature requirements (some are hardy in cold climates). Prefer low humidity. Tend to give a desert look but many have non-fleshy leaves or even leafy vines as top growth which gives more of a jungle feel than most succulents. Some make good feature plants. Many climb or hang. Some have pretty flowers. Ease of cultivation variable but tend to be more temperamental. Few people grow these, or even know what they are (and there are many rare kinds) so there's a very definite wow factor.
Crassulaceae (House Leek and Stonecrop family) a family consisting mostly of small leaf succulents with clusters of small flowers. Tolerate a wide range of lighting conditions but prefer bright light. Mostly small. Most need to be cool in the winter, even if they're winter growing (some are hardy in cold climates). Not fussy about humidity. Give a desert look. Some hang. A few will grow large enough to make feature plants. Some have lots of flowers, sometimes in large inflorescences. Easy to grow. Many rare and strange looking kinds.
Euphorbias (succulent) the genus which includes the poinsettia is huge and varied. The other houseplant species are mostly succulents, which often resemble cacti. Like bright light. Varied is size but tend to grow large. Varied in temperature requirements but mostly like warmth. Prefer low humidity. Give a desert look. Few hang and none climb. Many will grow large enough to be feature plants. The flowers are very small but some, particularly the E. milii complex (crown of thorns) have large, brightly colored bracts. Ease of cultivation variable but tend to be tricky. Most people don't know these from cacti but there are rare and bazaar kinds.
Ferns Unlike most houseplants, these are not angiosperms (flowering plants). Like dim light. Tend to grow large. Varied temperature requirements (some hardy in cold climates). Prefer high humidity. Give a jungle look. Some hang. Many will grow big enough to be feature plants. Never flower. You don't see many ferns in people's homes so you could probably find some unusual ones.
Ficus (Figs) Mostly trees (includes the rubber plant). Not fussy about light. Mostly grow large (can be bonsaid). Like warmth. Like humidity. Give a jungle look. Some hang or climb and make feature plants.
Below are the top articles rated and ranked by Helium members on:
by Theresa Rose
When thinking about exotic plants for the home, the first word that comes to my mind is tropical. I love tropical plants,
Perhaps the first thing to consider before choosing an exotic plant is whether you are a gardener at heart or more of a
There are many types of exotic plants, small and larger; some enjoy full sun, whereas others prefer shaded areas. The type
When planning on the purchase of an exotic plant a person normally has an idea of what they want. I will not talk of individual
When choosing exotic plants for your home, please first do your homework. Some exotics are beneficial. But others can be
View All Articles on:
How to choose exotic plants for your home
Add your voice
Know something about How to choose exotic plants for your home?
We want to hear your view.
Write now!
Cast your vote!
Click for your side.
Featured Partner
Tigerlily Foundation has partnered with Helium, giving you the chance to write for a cause. Browse Tigerlily Fou...more
hide