For those of us who enjoy being in our dark caves most of the time, bringing nature indoors is essential. Black house plants are especially attractive when paired with calaveras, candles and cozy knits.
Let’s be real, black plants look cool anywhere and they’re easier to maintain than you think.
Photo by EL VOZQE
It’s well known that plants can clean indoor air by absorbing toxins, increasing humidity, and producing oxygen. Multiple studies have shown that indoor plants can improve focus, decrease depressive moods and reduce anxiety offering both psychological and physical health benefits. Many Latin American households honor verdant ancestral remedies that can even boost healing and pain tolerance.
Not your Jardín Variety
You may find these black beauties intimidating, but don't worry, these elegant varieties are low effort, just don't over water them!
1. Colocasia ‘Black magic’
This statuesque show off tends to be finicky and takes a bit of time for it to adjust to an indoor
climate. If you live in a mild climate (with no extreme heat or sudden overnight frost), you can put the plant in an outdoor setting in the summer and bring it back indoors in the winter. Colocasia grows from bulbs and prefers bright filtered light and proper drainage. It likes a humid environment and it may become dormant in the winter.
2. Peperomia caperata ‘Burgundy ripple’
The dark purple variegated foliage couched by red stems make this plant spell binding.. This
rare peperomia variety likes partial shade and not too much water. Unlike most leafy
houseplants, this is a slow-growing plant, and it will usually remain compact, which makes it perfect for small spaces such as windowsills or desks.
3. Ficus Elastica Burgundy
This glossy Rubber Tree plant is exquisite. The leaves are a waxy dark olive, with deep burgundy veins along the back of the leaves.
The Rubber Tree grows best in bright, indirect light. Water when the top inch of soil is dry, then thoroughly drench until the water drains out of the pot. Make sure not to splash water onto the leaves, or it will cause water stains.
This plant can grow to 8-feet tall, but can be pruned to keep it the height you prefer.
4. Raven ZZ (Zamioculcas zamiifolia ‘Raven’)
New leaves start out green, but they quickly change to black and are absolutely stunning.
ZZ plants can survive in very low light conditions, but grow best in well-lit locations away from direct sunlight. Their bulbous roots are prone to root rot, so you’ll want to make sure to let the soil dry out completely before watering again.
5. Purple Hearts Tradescantia ‘Purple Queen’
Add a pop of color to your collection, with the ravishing Purple Heart. The purple heart is a
trailing tropical plant from the spiderwort family, and native to Mexico. It gets its common name from the delicate heart-shaped blossoms.
In order to maintain the striking deep purple color, Purple Queen plants need a lot of light, which can be the most challenging part of their care. Ideally you should provide them with full sun for most of the day, though some shade in extremely hot climates can prevent them from burning. Purple Queen likes to stay evenly moist, and always drain off the excess to avoid overwatering.
6. Begonia ‘Black fancy’
This small-leaf eyelash begonia is a flirty and fetching rhizome ( stem that grows underground).
New leaves grow surprise variegation. This one will stay small and is a slow grower. It enjoys bright, indirect light and well-draining, quality soil mix. In the winter, the plant produces pink flowers that contrast with the foliage nicely. Black Fancy prefers for the soil to dry out between waterings and should be watered regularly.
Fall into the darkside
Becoming a goth gardener will add style and sophistication to your home. Treat your dark and radiant plant babies well and they will reward you with the following benefits:
Boost moods, productivity, concentration, and creativity.
Reduce stress and fatigue.
Clean indoor air by absorbing toxins, increasing humidity, and producing oxygen.
Add life to sterile spaces, offer privacy, and reduce noise levels.
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