Difficult-to-care-for houseplants
Not all houseplants are equal. Some thrive no matter the conditions, while other wilt after a single forgotten watering or too much sun.
By caring for your houseplants in the right way, many will stay beautiful for years. But there are plants that need extra care or have specific requirements in terms of water, light and humidity. Those plants require plant lovers with green fingers who like a green challenge. If you're searching for gift ideas for a houseplant expert, take a look at our pick of the five houseplants below.
1.Calathea
From wavy leaves to ridges and from flaming pattern to stripes, Calathea is a beautiful houseplant with many different faces. This special houseplant has one drawback: it's not easy to care for.
The right ratio of water and light is very important for the Calathea. The plant is not very draught-resistant, likes high humidity (regular spraying with a plant sprayer is recommended) and needs a constant temperature of around 20°C. In short, looking after Calathea is the perfect challenge for a plant expert!
2. Croton
Croton is a standout plant that adds colour to your home. Its variegated leaves are often green with yellow and orange, but can also be purple or white. This plant require some extra attention and love, however.
Croton needs a lot of light and enough water. Make sure the potting soil is always slightly moist and never completely dries out. Too much water mean you'll end up with root rot. The exact amount of water needed depends on where Croton is located in your home and on the season (summer or winter).
3. Banana plant
The Banana plant brings its fun, tropical energy wherever it goes - but that comes with a payoff of needing additional care.
Banana plant needs a lot of light, but not direct sunlight. It also needs a lot of water, so make sure the potting soil stays consistantly moist. In summer, your banana plant may need watering every day and also likes to be sprayed with water. Banana plant's thin leaves can break or discolour quickly, so check them regularly. If the lower leaves are turning brown, cut them off; if the upper leaves are turning brown, the plant is probably not getting enough light or water.
4. Ficus Lyrata
Ficus Lyrata has large, violet-shaped leaves that stand out in a crowd - as do its care requirements.
This plant likes plenty of daylight (but no direct sunlight) and moist soil. But don't give it too much light and water and don't put it near draught, as it might drop its leaves. Ficus lyrata likes fairly high humidity, so it's advisable to spray the plant regularly with water and also to dust the leaves. If the plant is turning yellow, that could indicate too much water or too little light.
5. Peace lily
Peace lily is a stylish plant with air-purifying properties. You can recognise this houseplant by its dark green leaves with white bracts, which look a bit like spoons.
Peace lily needs a lot of water and its potting soil should always be slightly moist. The plant likes a bright spot, but no direct sunlight. It doesn't take the cold well and needs a steady temperature of 18-22°C. As its a tropical plant, we advise misting it regularly with water.
More green inspiration
What's your favourite houseplant? If you're just getting started on developing your green thumb, these easy-to-care-for houseplants will be right up your street. You can also check out these basic rules and tips for houseplant care.
