Indoor Trees

There’s nothing like an indoor tree in a room. It immediately brings the outside in making the room feel fresher and more alive. Not to mention, it does a great job filling awkward, empty spaces, which I’ve got.

Our new living room has a big, empty, dead corner, and I’ve been playing with the idea of sticking an indoor tree in it to fill the space and add some life. Given the room gets tons of light and Brent has a remarkably green thumb — meaning the tree will survive — the only question left is: What type?

The number of options of indoor trees is so dizzying it’s a good thing we’re not up in one. Fortunately, the types of indoor trees most often used can be broken down into five categories. See them all below.

1. The Fig Tree

Native to the tropics, fig trees make excellent houseplants due to being easy to grow. The most popular fig tree is by far the fiddle-leaf fig. They pop up all over shelter magazines and can be seen in the first 6 of the 7 pictures above. They’re easy to spot due to their uniquely large, violin-shaped leaves and are a great option if you have a big space that needs to be filled thanks to how large they can grow.

The other popular type of fig tree is referred to as the ficus. Characterized by numerous smaller leaves, the ficus has a daintier look than the fiddle-leaf fig and comes in a number of varieties. I’m almost positive the tree in the photo directly above is a ficus; however, due to the size of the photo I can’t be 100% sure. But even if it’s not, ficus trees look extremely similar.

2. The Banana Plant

While not necessarily a true tree, the banana plant is treated as one due to its sheer size. Designers love it thanks to its floppy, huge leaves that give a room an instant exotic or grand vibe. Almost structural, the numerous vertical stems of the banana plant make them perfect for narrow spaces or those where you want to direct the eye up.

3. The Citrus Tree

Whether you prefer lemons, limes, oranges or all three, the citrus tree is perfect for those who fantasize about freshly squeezed juice in the dead of winter. And what could be better than picking it from your very own tree just a few feet away?

If you’re a fan of growing your own fruit indoors, there are a number of other fruit trees in addition to the citrus tree that can easily be grown indoors.

4. The Palm Tree

When you really want to feel as though you’re in the tropics, the indoor palm tree is your best bet. Available in a number of varieties with all types of different fronds.

5. The Rare and Unusual

For the avid plant fan or those with an adventurous side, the rare and unusual trees take a bit of hunting or luck to find. But when you do, you get a unique, show-stopping piece for your home that’s bound to wow.

Which type of tree would you get? Do you have a favorite?