A recent article in The Wall Street Journal reported an upsurge in the use of plants and horticulture as an important part of a room’s design. Remember how popular a macramé hanger filled with a Boston fern was in the ‘70’s? Today macramé’ hangers as well as windowsills lined with sleepy plants standing in a row are not what are touted in 2017. Journal writer, Michael Tortorello noted, “The arrangement, shape and pattern of plants have become integral to a room’s design scheme”.
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Many interior designers are using plants as a statement piece in lieu of art. Placing large foliage plants behind a couch can occupy a space traditionally filled with a painting or photograph. The message today is that the placement of and the kind of plant chosen is similar to choosing and locating a work of art or a piece of sculpture. Walk through your home and determine where a plant can add beauty and design to a particular location. Sometimes, simply using a stand as a base can give importance to a plant – if it is a small plant the added height will enhance it. Placing a large plant similar to a sago palm on a pedestal or small stool can create drama. When you display plants on the floor, arrange them so that the larger ones are in back and the smaller ones placed in the front.
A favorite plant that has caught the eye of interior designers is the Hoya Carnosa, a wax plant that has thick, leathery leaves. The flowers have tubular branches that remind designer Tara Heibel of “upside down Barbie chandeliers”
The happy look of a Chinese Money Plant (Pilea peperomioides) has round leaves and a ray-like geometry making it a popular choice, as well..
Pencil Cactus (Euphorbia tirucalli) is a plant that reminds designer Stephan Jones of a line drawing. Using a carved stone container or hypertufa pot will complement the plant and add a bit of greenery to a modern décor.
The Optunia, is a cactus that can actually survive freezing weather. Its shallow roots do not require a deep container. The sculptural look of the prickly pear cactus makes it a favorite of designer Andrew Erdle.
Probably most popular and frequently used by many people is the Lady Slipper orchid (Paphiopedilums). Perfect for a centerpiece or an entry hall, an orchid can add beauty to any space. When deciding on a centerpiece the perfect choice can be a unique plant in lieu of a floral design. It will last longer and will add a touch of sophistication to your table setting.
There are so many interesting plants available today. Choose one or more for your home and enjoy the difference they can make to your décor.