Exotic plants are known for their vibrant foliage and unique appearance, but they often come with specific environmental requirements. One of the key factors that influence how well exotic plants thrive is humidity. Many exotic plants, especially those from tropical and subtropical regions, thrive in high-humidity environments. This can be a challenge for apartment dwellers, but with the right plants and care, you can create a lush indoor garden that thrives in a humid space.
In this article, we’ll explore the best exotic plants for small apartments with high humidity. We’ll discuss the unique care needs of these plants, how to maintain the right humidity levels, and tips on how to incorporate them into your apartment.
Understanding High Humidity and Its Impact on Exotic Plants
High humidity refers to the amount of moisture in the air. In tropical climates, where many exotic plants originate, humidity levels are often much higher than what we typically experience indoors. For some plants, high humidity is essential for proper growth and health.
Plants that thrive in high humidity environments usually have larger, more delicate leaves and require consistent moisture to prevent drying out. When living in an apartment with high humidity, you can take advantage of this natural condition to grow plants that require more moisture.
However, it’s essential to ensure that the humidity levels remain balanced. Too much humidity can lead to mold and mildew growth, while too little can cause your plants to dry out. Understanding how to manage humidity and choosing the right plants will allow you to create a thriving indoor garden.
Best Exotic Plants for High-Humidity Environments
Some exotic plants are particularly well-suited for high-humidity environments. These plants typically come from tropical regions where high humidity is the norm. Here are some of the best exotic plants that thrive in small apartments with high humidity.
1. Ferns (e.g., Boston Fern, Maidenhair Fern)
Ferns are a classic choice for high-humidity environments. These plants have large, feathery fronds that require plenty of moisture to stay healthy. Ferns, such as the Boston Fern and Maidenhair Fern, thrive in humid conditions and can tolerate low light levels, making them perfect for small apartments.
Ferns do best in bathrooms or kitchens, where humidity levels are naturally higher. They need to be kept moist, but not soggy, and should be watered regularly to ensure they stay hydrated.
2. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
The Peace Lily is a well-known air-purifying plant that thrives in high-humidity environments. Its broad, glossy leaves and delicate white flowers add beauty to any room. Peace Lilies are also great for apartments with high humidity, as they enjoy moisture-rich air.
This plant requires indirect sunlight and should be watered regularly to maintain its lush appearance. Peace Lilies can tolerate a variety of conditions, but they do best in high-humidity spaces like bathrooms or kitchens.
3. Orchids (e.g., Phalaenopsis, Cattleya)
Orchids are one of the most popular exotic plants for high-humidity environments. These stunning plants come in a variety of species, with Phalaenopsis and Cattleya being two of the most common for indoor environments. Orchids require high humidity to thrive, and their delicate flowers are a sight to behold.
Orchids do best in humid areas with indirect light. They need to be watered regularly, but the key is to avoid letting the roots sit in water. To maintain the right humidity, you can use a humidity tray or a small room humidifier.
4. Calathea (e.g., Calathea Medallion, Calathea Orbifolia)
Calathea plants are well-known for their striking, colorful foliage. These plants, native to tropical rainforests, require high humidity to maintain their vibrant leaves. Calatheas do well in bathrooms or kitchens, where they can receive indirect light and benefit from the natural moisture in the air.
These plants need to be kept consistently moist, and their leaves should be misted regularly to keep them hydrated. Calatheas are ideal for small spaces with high humidity, as they add a pop of color and lush greenery to your home.
5. Bromeliads (e.g., Guzmania, Aechmea)
Bromeliads are another exotic plant that thrives in high-humidity environments. These plants have unique, colorful flowers and spiky, narrow leaves. Bromeliads naturally grow in humid, tropical environments, making them a perfect addition to a bathroom or a space with higher moisture levels.
Bromeliads need to be kept moist, and their “cups” (the center of their rosette) should be filled with water to mimic their natural growing conditions. They also enjoy indirect sunlight, making them ideal for indoor spaces with high humidity.
6. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Chinese Evergreens are hardy, low-maintenance plants that thrive in high humidity. With their attractive, variegated leaves, they add a touch of elegance to any room. These plants are well-suited to small apartments and do well in areas with moderate to high humidity.
Chinese Evergreens prefer indirect light and need to be watered regularly to keep the soil moist. They also benefit from being kept in a humid environment, so they’re great for bathrooms or kitchens.
7. Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)
The Bird of Paradise is a large, exotic plant with striking, tropical flowers. While it’s often grown in larger spaces, it can thrive in high-humidity environments in small apartments. Bird of Paradise plants prefer a warm, humid atmosphere, making them ideal for rooms with high moisture levels.
These plants need bright, indirect light and should be watered regularly. Bird of Paradise plants can grow quite large, so they’re best placed in corners or near windows where they can receive plenty of light and benefit from the higher humidity.
How to Maintain Humidity for Your Exotic Plants
Maintaining the right humidity levels is key to ensuring your exotic plants thrive. Here are some tips for maintaining humidity in your apartment:
Use a Humidifier
A humidifier is one of the best ways to maintain consistent humidity levels in your apartment. It can help create the ideal environment for tropical plants that thrive in moist conditions. Place the humidifier near your plants or in the room where they’re located to keep the air humid.
Humidity Trays
A humidity tray is a simple and effective way to increase moisture around your plants. Place a shallow tray filled with pebbles and water under your plants. The water will slowly evaporate, raising the humidity around the plant. Be sure that the bottom of the pot is not sitting directly in the water to avoid root rot.
Group Plants Together
When plants are grouped together, they naturally create a microclimate with higher humidity. By clustering your humidity-loving plants, you can raise the moisture levels in the air and help your plants thrive.
Regular Misting
Many high-humidity plants, such as Calatheas and Orchids, benefit from regular misting. Lightly mist the leaves with water to provide additional moisture. Just be careful not to overdo it, as excessive water on the leaves can lead to mold or mildew.
Final Thoughts
High humidity can be a challenge for apartment dwellers, but with the right plants and care, you can create a lush, tropical indoor garden that thrives in a humid environment. Plants like ferns, orchids, and Peace Lilies are perfect for small apartments with high humidity, adding beauty and vitality to your home.
By maintaining the right humidity levels and choosing the right plants, you can enjoy the many benefits of having exotic plants in your apartment. Not only will these plants enhance the aesthetic of your space, but they will also improve air quality and create a calming, natural environment.