When it comes to creating a serene and refreshing home environment, large indoor house plants trees are an excellent choice.
But what differentiates an indoor tree from a big indoor plant? While both add beauty and health benefits to your living space, indoor trees are larger, more dramatic, and often come with trunks or woody stems, unlike many smaller indoor plants.
These living giants don’t just beautify your home; they make a statement, offering a range of benefits from cleaner air to stress relief.
In this post, we’ll explore why you might want to consider large indoor trees, the important factors to keep in mind before bringing one into your home, how to care for them, and some popular species to get you started.
By the end, you’ll be equipped with everything you need to know about transforming your space with these green wonders.
Why Choose Large Indoor House Plants Trees?
If you’re looking for a way to make your space more visually interesting, large indoor house plants trees are the answer. They add life to those awkward corners, turning empty spaces into lush focal points. Not only do they make a bold statement, but the benefits of having trees indoors extend far beyond aesthetics.
The bigger the tree, the more oxygen it produces, which means cleaner air and the removal of pollutants like formaldehyde or benzene. And that’s not all—studies show that having large plants indoors can actually boost your immune system, reduce stress, and even elevate your mood. With more oxygen flowing through your home, you’ll likely feel an energy boost as well.
Plus, unlike smaller plants that might need replacing, indoor trees can last for years with the right care, becoming long-term companions in your home.
Things to Consider Before Raising Large Indoor House Trees
Before diving into the world of large indoor house plants trees, there are a few key things to keep in mind:
- Space Matters: Large trees need ample room to thrive, so consider both the width of your space and the height of your ceilings. Some trees can grow several feet tall, so make sure there’s enough headroom.
- Heavy Pots, Heavy Lifting: Larger trees need larger, heavier pots to support their roots and prevent tipping. You may even want to double-check if your house structure can support the weight, especially if you’re in an older building or apartment.
- Leaf Drop: Many indoor trees go through cycles where their leaves die and are replaced with new ones. This means you’ll need to stay on top of cleaning up dead leaves to keep your space looking tidy.
- Dwarf Varieties: It’s usually a good idea to opt for dwarf varieties of popular trees, as these are better suited for indoor environments and will stay more manageable.
- Lighting Needs: Not all indoor trees are created equal when it comes to light. Some need full sunlight, while others can thrive in low-light spaces. Be sure to choose a species that matches the light conditions of your home.
- Maintenance: While some trees are relatively low maintenance, others require daily watering or more intensive care, so it’s important to choose a species that fits your lifestyle.
How to Take Care of Large Indoor Trees
Caring for large indoor trees can be surprisingly easy, but it requires attention to detail. Here are a few key care tips to ensure your indoor trees thrive:
- Pest Control: Like all plants, indoor trees can attract pests, so keep an eye out and treat them with the appropriate pesticide if needed.
- Minimize Movement: Trees don’t like to be moved around too much. Once you’ve found the perfect spot with the right amount of light, keep them there to avoid stressing them out.
- Less Frequent Watering: Since large trees are usually in bigger pots, they don’t need watering as often as smaller plants. However, when you do water them, make sure it’s thorough.
- Right-Sized Pots: Choosing the right pot size is key for tree health. Start with a pot that’s between 10 and 24 inches, depending on the tree’s size. Repotting may be necessary as your tree grows, typically once a year.
- Light Requirements: Some species love direct sunlight, while others can tolerate low light. Make sure you know your tree’s light needs and place it accordingly.
- Pruning and Maintenance: Some trees, like olive trees, may need pruning more than once a year to maintain their shape and promote healthy growth.
- Fertilize Smartly: A slow-release fertilizer twice a year is usually sufficient for most indoor trees, helping them get the nutrients they need without overwhelming their roots.
Popular Large Indoor House Plants Tree
1. Olive Tree
- Origin: Mediterranean region
- Specific Needs: Thrives in bright, direct sunlight. Prefers well-drained soil and regular watering, but avoid overwatering.
- Max Size: Can grow up to 6 feet tall indoors.
- Description: Olive trees bring a rustic, Mediterranean vibe to indoor spaces. They are hardy but require plenty of light and good air circulation.
2. Lady Palm (Rhapis excelsa)
- Origin: China, Taiwan
- Specific Needs: Low to medium light, prefers consistently moist soil.
- Max Size: Reaches up to 4-6 feet indoors.
- Description: A slow-growing, elegant palm with fan-shaped leaves, perfect for brightening up corners without needing intense sunlight.
3. Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina)
- Origin: Southeast Asia, India, and Northern Australia
- Specific Needs: Prefers bright, indirect light. Sensitive to drafts and frequent movement.
- Max Size: Can grow up to 10 feet indoors.
- Description: Known for its drooping branches and glossy leaves, this tree adds a graceful touch to indoor spaces but requires stable conditions to avoid leaf drop.
4. Dragon Tree (Dracaena marginata)
- Origin: Madagascar
- Specific Needs: Low to bright indirect light, tolerates occasional drought.
- Max Size: Can reach up to 6-8 feet indoors.
- Description: The dragon tree is a durable and striking plant with spiky leaves and red edges. Its resilience makes it a great choice for beginners.
5. Norfolk Island Pine (Araucaria heterophylla)
- Origin: Norfolk Island, South Pacific
- Specific Needs: Prefers bright, indirect light and slightly moist soil.
- Max Size: Grows up to 6-8 feet indoors.
- Description: This tree brings a touch of the holidays indoors with its soft, pine-like foliage. Though it resembles a pine tree, it’s not suited for cold environments.
6. Majesty Palm (Ravenea rivularis)
- Origin: Madagascar
- Specific Needs: Thrives in bright, indirect light and high humidity. Needs consistent moisture.
- Max Size: Can grow up to 10 feet indoors.
- Description: The Majesty Palm adds a tropical touch to any space with its lush, feathery fronds. It requires a bit more care due to its moisture and humidity needs.
7. Banana Tree (Musa spp.)
- Origin: Southeast Asia
- Specific Needs: Loves bright, direct sunlight and consistently moist soil.
- Max Size: Grows up to 6-10 feet indoors.
- Description: Bringing a tropical feel, the banana tree is fast-growing and needs plenty of light and water. It adds a dramatic look to your indoor space.
8. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
- Origin: Southern Mexico and Guatemala
- Specific Needs: Low to medium light, prefers well-drained soil and occasional watering.
- Max Size: Typically reaches up to 3-4 feet indoors.
- Description: The parlor palm is a classic indoor tree that is low maintenance, making it a great option for any home. Its delicate, arching fronds offer a relaxed, tropical vibe.
9. Money Tree (Pachira aquatica)
- Origin: Central and South America
- Specific Needs: Prefers bright, indirect light and well-drained soil. Water once the soil is dry.
- Max Size: Grows up to 6-8 feet indoors.
- Description: The money tree is often associated with good fortune and features braided trunks with broad, glossy leaves. It’s easy to care for and adapts well to various lighting conditions.
10. Umbrella Tree (Schefflera actinophylla)
- Origin: Australia and New Guinea
- Specific Needs: Prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil.
- Max Size: Can grow up to 8-10 feet indoors.
- Description: Known for its umbrella-like leaves that grow in clusters, this tree adds a lush, tropical feel. It’s easy to care for but needs occasional pruning to maintain its shape.
11. Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)
- Origin: Western Africa
- Specific Needs: Requires bright, indirect light and well-drained soil.
- Max Size: Can grow up to 10 feet or more indoors.
- Description: The fiddle leaf fig is highly popular for its large, violin-shaped leaves and modern, bold look. However, it’s a bit finicky and requires proper lighting and watering.
12. Rubber Tree (Ficus elastica)
- Origin: Southeast Asia
- Specific Needs: Prefers bright, indirect light and well-drained soil. Water when the topsoil feels dry.
- Max Size: Can grow up to 8 feet indoors.
- Description: The rubber tree is a striking plant with glossy, deep green leaves. It’s easy to care for and can adapt to various light conditions, making it a favorite for indoor environments.
13. Yucca Tree (Yucca elephantipes)
- Origin: Central America
- Specific Needs: Thrives in bright, indirect light and tolerates dry conditions well.
- Max Size: Grows up to 8-10 feet indoors.
- Description: The yucca tree is known for its sword-like leaves and robust trunk, adding a desert-like appeal to your home. It’s low maintenance and ideal for those who forget to water their plants occasionally.
Final Thoughts
Large indoor house plants trees do more than just fill up space; they bring life, vitality, and a touch of nature’s grandeur into your home.
Whether you’re looking to improve air quality, create a focal point, or simply enhance your home’s aesthetic, the right tree can be your perfect companion for years to come. With the proper care, these trees will thrive and grow alongside you, making your living environment healthier and more vibrant.
So, if you’re ready to make a big, bold change, adding a large indoor tree might just be the perfect next step for your home.