Of course, statement plants bring a touch of nature indoors, there’s nothing quite like large leaf plants as decor, stylish focal points that can raise the stakes on your decor. Whether in minimalist interiors or rustic retreats, adding in some large-leaf plants will be the key to bringing much-needed warmth, texture, and life into any space. In this article, I will take you through the best tips and tricks for selecting, styling, and caring for these show-stopping plants.
Why Choose Large Leaf Plants as Decor?
Large-leaf plants, particularly tropical ones, bring an air of the exotic and even a soothing factor to any home. Their larger, more dramatic leaves make your space feel fuller and much richer compared to the smaller plants. The large-leaf plant is suited for modern, fresh decoration but can also be used so imaginatively to complement a rustic or vintage design.
All it takes is the right plant to transform an empty corner or blank wall into a lush, living work of art. And it isn’t just about the aesthetics! Large-leafed plants purify the air in the home, making them functional pieces that are equally stunning.
Top Large-Leaf Plants for Decor
Of course, plant type does play a big role in how well it actually complements your interior style. Now let’s dive in and discuss a number of the most popular large-leaf plants for decoration, and what makes each one unique.
1. Monstera Deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant)
For large-leaf decor, the first plant that usually comes to mind is the Monstera. The iconic, split leaves of this tropical beauty make it a rather indispensable fixture for any home stylist. Its richly green, thick foliage adds warmth to the minimalistic space by easily meshing with rustic and bohemian themes.
Styling Tip: Place a Monstera in a large basket planter to give it that organic, earthy look. Place this plant in your living room near the window with indirect bright sunlight, and the large leaves will beautifully create shadows, adding texture to space.
2. Bird of Paradise
The Bird of Paradise plant grows large, tropical leaves that usually resemble banana leaves. If one is looking to add a splash of the tropics in their homes, this is generally an excellent choice. It’s low maintenance, but those bold leaves automatically make it stand out as a centerpiece.
Styling Tip: Planted Bird of Paradise works at home in modern or minimalist spaces. They look brilliant placed next to sleek, mid-century furniture or as a showstopping entryway plant.
3. Alocasia (Elephant Ear Plant)
What really sets the Alocasia apart is for those who want something truly different. Its large, shield-shaped leaves sometimes have appearances that almost seem to come straight out of the rainforest. This plant brings in a touch of the rare and exotic that will catch one’s eye in an instant.
Where to put it: Place Alocasia in a decorative pot in neutral hues that will allow its foliage to be the star of the show. A well-lit room, like a bright window or a sunroom, is ideal for this plant.
4. Philodendron Congo
Then there is Philodendron Congo, another great tropical plant that makes a big impact with its broad shining leaves. Easy to care for and capable of adapting quickly to indoor settings, it’s a favorite among plant lovers of all levels.
Styling Tip: Philodendron Congo looks very good paired with rustic decor. Place the plant in a vintage or clay pot to make it look organic and set it in a cozy nook to create a mini-jungle.
How to Use Large Leaf Plants in Decor by Style
Modern Spaces
Large leaf plants can add a pop of drama in modern spaces. They are particularly nice against clean lines and neutral color schemes. Planters should be selected that are as simple as modern decor allows-matte black, white ceramic, or metal planters, for example.
Key Tips for Modern Spaces:
• Less is More: One or two large leaf plants for decoration are enough to keep them sleek.
• Neutral Palette: Deep green leaves will continually keep the palette sophisticated.
• Statement Positioning: For the most effect, you will want to put them in statement positions in a room, such as beside a sofa or console table.
Rustic or Farmhouse Decor
Large-leaf plants bring an organic and cozy feel indoors in rustic or farmhouse settings. The earthy aesthetic goes along with the wood texture, which is warm in tone and so common in this style.
Key Tips for Rustic Spaces:
• Vintage Containers: Using terracotta pots, wicker baskets, or metal planters will further enhance the rustic look.
• Texture Mix: Mix plants with weaved textiles and wooden furniture for layering.
• Casual Groupings: Group a few large-leaf plants together to create a cozy, somewhat overgrown look that gives character to a space.
Minimalist Interiors
Large-leaved plants bring life to a minimalist space and add color without clutter. Use plants with simple, elegant shapes of leaves, combined with slim, modern planters.
Key Tips for Minimalist Spaces:
• Focus on Shapes: Employ plants that offer a thrilling outline, like Monstera, thereby adding texture without clutter.
• Choose Monochrome Pots: Simple, monochromatic pots will let the natural beauty of your plants shine while they easily blend into a minimalist interior.
• Strategic Placement: It can be done by placing them in corners or open areas, thereby breaking the monotony and bringing in more visual interest.
Caring for Your Large Leaf Plants as Decor
While these plants are beautiful, they really do call for a little TLC to stay at their best. Here are a few key tips that will help keep your large-leaf plants thriving inside of your home.
Light Requirements
Most big-leafed plants are tropical; they love bright, indirect sunlight. Scorching may occur with too much direct sunlight, so try putting them near windows with filtered light, or use sheer curtains.
Watering Needs
Big-leafed plants generally like regular watering, although overwatering can lead to root rot. A good rule of thumb is when the first inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Temperature and Humidity
The tropical origin of the plant would make it necessary to have a higher level of humidity than in an average setting. You can either use the support of a humidifier or include a water tray near the plant to achieve higher humidity. Most big-leafed plants thrive at temperatures between 65-80°F 18-27°C.
Regular Cleaning
Large leaves collect dust, that can shade out the sun, and your plant might not get enough light to undergo photosynthesis. You simply need to wipe off the leaves with a wet cloth every couple of weeks to give them a clean and shiny appearance.
Bring Exotic Tropical Plants into Your Decor
If you want to try something even more unique, rare tropical plants with large leaves are going to give your decor a special light. Plants like the Fiddle Leaf Fig, Banana Plant, or Anthurium Clarinervium have become highly coveted and add touches of special elements that somehow give a room a luxurious feel.
These are often rarer plants that are a bit more expensive and need more specific care, but they are well worth the investment if you’re after that one-of-a-kind look .
Final Thoughts on Large Leaf Plants as Decor
Add that zing to your space with style and decoration using the splendor of large-leaf plants. Be it modern minimalist or earthy rustic, there is a large-leaf plant to reflect your unique style. Choose plants that will thrive in your space, care for them appropriately, and let nature be louder in that statement piece within your home’s decoration.
