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24 leafjoy varieties for Growng Joy Identifying and replicating the native environment will help your plants thrive and reduce stress. Stress robs your plant of its natural resiliency to fend off pests, and survive periodic under/overwatering, and seasonal changes in light and temperature.

Here are some specific characteristics of the environment in a jungle understory: ● Low-filtered light: The jungle understory receives only about 2-15% of the sunlight that reaches the canopy. This means that plants in this layer must have adapted to low-light conditions. They often have large leaves to capture as much sunlight and dew as possible. ● High humidity: The jungle understory is very humid, with average humidity levels of 70-80%. This high humidity can help to prevent plants from drying out, but it can also lead to problems with mold and mildew if there is no space between the plants. ● Moist soil: The soil in the jungle understory is always moist, as it is constantly being watered by rain and dew.

Despite the challenging native conditions, many plants thrive in the jungle understory and tend to be houseplant favorites. Ironic since we don’t live that way in our homes. The allure of the exotic foliage calls to us so strongly. The colors, texture, patterns, and wild, unfurling new growth are all too great to resist. Still, setting your plant up for success means you hit most or ALL of these criteria in your suburban rancher in Kansas City.

Take a minute. Do some research. Find the origin story. Honor the new life you are about to be responsible for and build an environment where neither you nor the plant will be stressed.

Now, let’s dive into some very COOL plants.

Alocasia reginula ‘Ninja’

Alocasia reginula ‘Ninja’ is a jewel Alocasia from subtropical Asia and Eastern Australia. It grows under tree canopies in nature, developing large leaves to absorb more sunlight. This Alocasia will never grow tall, but with proper care, it becomes a compact and full-bodied indoor plant. Alocasia likes to be a bit root-bound, so there is seldom an urgent need to re-pot. However, these indoor plants tend to outgrow their pots since they can grow fast. Alocasias have a rhizome-type root system. These thick roots will store extra water for the plant. The nodes are located on the roots.

Height: 12 - 18 Inches | Habit: Short but upright | Light: adaptable from low to bright indirect 200-500FC | Water: even consistent moisture | Soil: loose, nutrient-rich potting soil | Fert: fish/seaweed emulsion or microbe mix

Stromanthe sanguinea Socialite™ ‘Stripestar’

Stromanthe sanguinea Socialite™ Stripestar, a member of the prayer plant family, folds its brightly colored leaves at night. It is an upright rhizomatous perennial that typically grows to 5’ tall and 3’ wide outdoors but to a more modest 2-3’ tall when grown indoors as a houseplant. It is native to rainforests in Brazil.

Height: 24 - 36 Inches | Habit: Upright | Light: adaptable from low to bright indirect 300-500FC | Water: water when top 2” are dry | Soil: loose, nutrient-rich potting soil | Fert: fish/seaweed emulsion or microbe mix

Calathea insignis Color Full® rattlesnake plant

The actual botanical name is Goeppertia insignis, the rattlesnake plant, is a species of flowering plant in the Marantaceae family, native to Rio de Janeiro state in Brazil. The plant form is fountain-like with a spreading habit. The rattlesnake plant can be difficult to care for properly because of its humidity requirements. Consider standing a potted plant in a bed of wet pebbles, misting the foliage regularly. It is well worth the extra effort.

Plants typically grow to 1 1/2 feet tall indoors but can rise to 2 1/2 feet tall outdoors. The markings on each leaf resemble those found on some rattlesnakes, hence the common name for this plant.

Height: 18 - 24 Inches | Habit: Upright | Light: adaptable from low to medium indirect 150 to 200FC | Water: water when top 2” are dry | Soil: loose, nutrient-rich potting soil | Fert: fish/seaweed emulsion or microbe mix

Epipremnum aureum Beautifall® ‘N'Joy’ pothos

Pothos is a highly resilient and easy-to-grow houseplant that thrives in a variety of lighting conditions. Pothos is native to Mo'orea in the Society Islands of French Polynesia. It can be grown cascading in hanging baskets or trained to climb a moss pole or other support. The ‘N'Joy’ variety has beautifully variegated green and cream leaves. This forgiving and low-maintenance plant is a perfect choice for beginners and experienced plant parents alike.

Height: 6-8 inches | Habit: Upright, Vining | Light: adaptable from low to bright indirect 200 FC | Water: water when top 2” are dry | Soil: loose, nutrient-rich potting soil | Fert: fish/seaweed emulsion or microbe mix

Calathea majestica Color Full® Diamond Dazzler™ prayer plant

The actual botanical name is Goeppertia majestica. It is native to Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Guyana, and northern Brazil, and has been introduced to Venezuela. For optimal appearance, maintain relative humidity between 40% and 60%. Allow the surface of the potting mix to dry slightly before watering.

One of the most elegant yet relatively muted designs on a Calathea is that of the 'White Star.’. This specimen sports several bright white stripes from the midrib of the plant extending to its leaf blades, with some leaves featuring pink shades near the midrib depending on the light conditions and maturity of the plant.

Height: 48 - 60 Inches | Habit: Upright | Light: adaptable from low to medium indirect 200 FC | Water: water when top 2” are dry | Soil: loose, nutrient-rich potting soil | Fert: fish/seaweed emulsion or microbe mix

Alocasia cuprea Mythic™ ‘Red Secret’ jewel Alocasia

The foliage is other-worldly. Its coppery-green metallic looks like the back of an exotic scarab. It commands attention from every on-looker. ‘Red Secret’ is a stunning transformer as it matures to a darker, richer metallic. Its name comes from this copper (Latin: cuprea) color. It even has the nerve to show off the undersides of the leaves in a beautiful maroon. The magic for the plant happens on the Island of Brunei just below Vietnam off the Java Sea. Given its native environment, this jewel needs humidity between 80% and 95% humidity simply achieved with a humidifier.

Height: 12 - 18 Inch | Habit: Low, Upright | Light: adaptable from low to medium indirect 200 FC | Water: water when top 2” are dry | Soil: loose, nutrient-rich potting soil | Fert: fish/seaweed emulsion or microbe mix

Ficus benjamina Cling-On® Over the Edge™ ‘Twilight’

Height: 14 - 16 Inches | Habit: Upright, Weeping | Light: adaptable from medium to high indirect 600 - 1000 FC | Water: evenly moist but not sopping | Soil: loose, nutrient-rich potting soil | Fert: fish/seaweed emulsion or microbe mix

Ficus elastica Chroma® ‘Abidjan’ rubber plant

Ficus elastica, also known as the rubber tree, is a native of Southeast Asia, where it can grow up to 100 feet tall. In cultivation, it is typically grown as a houseplant and can reach heights of 6-10 feet.

‘Abidjan’ is a popular houseplant due to its attractive, glossy leaves and relatively easy care. Ficus elastica is a relatively slow-growing plant. This compact rubber plant features gorgeous, super dark leaves with a contrasting bright red sheathe that protects the newly forming leaves.

Height: 48 - 120 Inches | Habit: Upright, Tall | Light: adaptable from low to medium indirect 200 - 600 FC | Water: water when top 2” are dry | Soil: loose, nutrient-rich potting soil | Fert: fish/seaweed emulsion or microbe mix

Ficus elastica Chroma® ‘Tineke’ rubber plant

Ficus elastica 'Tieke' is a medium to large evergreen shrub or tree with thick, glossy, dark green leaves. It is a member of the Moraceae (mulberry) family and is native to tropical Asia, where it can grow up to 100 feet tall. In cultivation. As a houseplant, it typically reaches 6-10 feet tall. 'Tieke' is a popular houseplant due to its attractive foliage and ease of care. It can be grown in a variety of conditions but prefers bright, indirect light and moist, well-draining soil. It is important to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Ficus elastica 'Tieke' is relatively tolerant of low humidity, but does best in humid environments.

Height: 48 - 120 Inches | Habit: Upright, Tall | Light: adaptable from low to medium indirect 200 - 600 FC | Water: water when top 2” are dry | Soil: loose, nutrient-rich potting soil | Fert: fish/seaweed emulsion or microbe mix

Ficus elastica Chroma® ‘Chloe’ rubber plant

Ficus elastica, also known as the rubber tree, is a native of Southeast Asia, where it can grow up to 100 feet tall. In cultivation, it is typically grown as a houseplant and can reach heights of 6-10 feet.

‘Chloe’ is a popular houseplant due to its attractive, glossy leaves and relatively easy care. Ficus elastica is a relatively slow-growing plant.

Height: 48 - 120 Inches | Habit: Upright, Tall | Light: adaptable from low to medium indirect 200 - 600 FC | Water: water when top 2” are dry | Soil: loose, nutrient-rich potting soil | Fert: fish/seaweed emulsion or microbe mix

Ficus benjamina Cling-On® ‘Anastasia’ weeping fig

The original Ficus benjamina of yesteryear is very prone to dropping leaves when the plant is moved to a new location, but Anastasia has an improved variety developed to minimize this behavior.

Ficus benjamina is a native of Southeast Asia, where it grows in tropical rainforests. It is a popular houseplant in many parts of the world due to its attractive foliage and ease of care. Ficus prefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves. The plant also prefers moist, well-draining soil. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Ficus is relatively tolerant of low humidity but does best in humid environments. The original Ficus benjamina is very prone to dropping leaves when the plant is moved to a new location, but Anastasia has been developed to minimize this behavior.

Height: 36 - 120 Inches | Habit: Upright, Weeping, Tall | Light: adaptable from medium to bright indirect 400 - 1000 FC | Water: evenly moist but not sopping | Soil: loose, nutrient-rich potting soil | Fert: fish/seaweed emulsion or microbe mix

Philodendron hybrid Prismacolor™ ‘Pink Princess’

The Pink Princess Philodendron is a hybrid of the Philodendron erubescens and Philodendron x burle-marxii. It is a native of the tropical rainforests of South America and is known for its beautiful variegated leaves. The leaves are typically dark green with splashes of pink, but the amount of variegation can vary from plant to plant.

Is a relatively easy-care plant, but it does have a few specific requirements. It prefers bright, indirect light and moist, well-draining soil. The plant should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry. The Pink Princess Philodendron is also a relatively fast-growing plant, so it will need to be repotted every 1-2 years.

Height: 48 - 72 Inches | Habit: Upright, Spreading | Light: adaptable from medium indirect 400 FC | Water: water when top 2” are dry | Soil: loose, nutrient-rich potting soil | Fert: fish/seaweed emulsion or microbe mix

Alocasia longiloba Mythic™ African mask

Alocasia longiloba, also known as the exotic elephant ear, is a tropical plant native to Southeast Asia. It is known for its large, heart-shaped leaves with pale green veins growing up to 5’ in its native climate. As a houseplant, the leaves can grow up to 2’ x 1.5 feet wide. Alocasia longiloba is a relatively easy-care plant, but it does have a few specific requirements. This plant is also sensitive to cold, so it is best to keep it in a warm location.

Height: 48 Inches | Habit: Upright, Spreading | Light: adaptable from medium indirect 400 - 800 FC | Water: water when top 2” are dry | Soil: loose, nutrient-rich potting soil | Fert: fish/seaweed emulsion or microbe mix

Alocasia macrorrhiza Mythic™ ‘Stingray’ elephant ears

The unusual foliage of this Alocasia is broad at the base and narrows to a slim "tail" at the tip making the overall leaf shape resemble that of a Stingray.

That’s not to discount the gorgeous mottled pattern on the stem. The combination makes a striking feature in any plant community. Stunning as a stand-alone for a tablescape. It can get up to 5 feet tall outdoors in warm climates and stays smaller as a houseplant. It is native to the islands of Brunei near the South China Sea and is known for its rugged, dense rainforest.

Height: 12 - 60 Inches | Habit: Tall, Upright | Light: adaptable from low to medium indirect 200 FC | Water: water when top 2” are dry | Soil: loose, nutrient-rich potting soil | Fert: fish/seaweed emulsion or microbe mix

Ficus cyathistipula - Cling-On® African fig

Ficus cyathistipula, the African fig, is a member of the mulberry family that grows in tropical rainforests across the continent, from Ivory Coast in the west to western Kenya and northern Malawi. Its large, dark green leaves add a touch of drama to this indoor giant, but it's not just for show. The plant's large leaves help to purify the air in your home and keep the humidity balanced, making it a welcome addition to any space.

The plant prefers slightly damp soil and can usually be found around swamps and along the banks of rivers. In the wild, it can reach a height of around 16 to 26 feet (5 to 8 meters). The epithet, cyathistipula is derived from the fruit: a halved fig resembles a bowl.

Height: 48 - 72 Inches | Habit: Tall, Upright | Light: adaptable from low to high indirect 300 - 1000 FC | Water: water when top 2” are dry | Soil: loose, nutrient-rich potting soil | Fert: fish/seaweed emulsion or microbe mix

Mysteria™ Deliciosa Swiss cheese vine Monstera deliciosa + Monstera Thai Constellation*

This iconic houseplant has become a staple in many homes and for good reason. It is an easy grower, and the fenestrated leaves with their unusual holes and slits are truly eye-catching! Juvenile plant foliage will be solid, and fenestrations will appear over time as the plant gets bigger and grows.

Unlike their all-green Monstera buddies, Thai Constellations are less tolerant of drying out, are slower growing, as well as more sensitive to light, temperature, humidity and fertilizer. But they do share some common care requirements too. There are a lot of common names for this plant, including Swiss Cheese Plant, Swiss Cheese Vine, Mexican Breadfruit, Split-Leaf Philodendron, and more. Please note that while this is NOT a Philodendron, the genera Monstera and Philodendron are indeed related.

Height: 60 - 120 Inches | Habit: Tall, Spreading | Light: adaptable from low to medium indirect 400 FC | Water: water when top 2” are dry | Soil: loose, nutrient-rich potting soil | Fert: fish/seaweed emulsion or microbe mix * not yet available - building stock

Ficus elastica Chroma® ‘Belize’ rubber plant

Ficus elastica Belize is a tri-color variegated tree-type and an easy-care plant.

It is important to provide the right conditions to ensure it thrives. The plant prefers bright, indirect light, and should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry. Ficus elastica variegata also prefers high humidity, but can tolerate average household humidity. To increase the humidity around the plant, you can mist it regularly or place it on a pebble tray.

Ficus elastica variegata is a relatively slow-growing plant, but it can be pruned to maintain its desired size and shape. When pruning, be sure to use sharp, clean shears and make cuts at a 45-degree angle.

Light: adaptable from low to medium indirect 200 FC | Water: water when top 2” are dry | Soil: loose, nutrient-rich potting soil | Fert: fish/seaweed emulsion or microbe mix

Calathea orbifolia Color Full® prayer plant

Calathea orbifolia is a prayer plant, the common name for plants that tend to fold their foliage as night falls. Prayer plants include plants in the following genera: Calathea, Maranta, Stromanthe, and Ctenanthe. Calathea are grown for their beautifully ornamental leaves. These leaves can get quite large, and are green with silvery-green stripes throughout. Calathea orbifolia has been reclassified as Goeppertia orbifolia.

Height: 12-36 Inches | Habit: Mounded | Light: adaptable from low to medium indirect 200 FC | Water: water when top 2” are dry | Soil: loose, nutrient-rich potting soil | Fert: fish/seaweed emulsion or microbe mix

Alocasia watsoniana ‘White Vein’

Alocasia watsoniana 'White Vein' is a stunning tropical houseplant with large, dark shield leaves with white veining. It grows with an upright, clump habit and is relatively easy to care for.

The plant prefers bright, indirect light, moist soil, and high humidity. Be careful not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot. Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer. 'White Vein' prefers warm temperatures, between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Avoid placing it in drafts or near cold air sources.

The plant is relatively fast-growing, so you may need to repot it every year or two. With proper care, Alocasia watsoniana 'White Vein' can thrive for many years to come and add a touch of tropical beauty to your home.

Height: 60 - 120 Inches | Habit: Upright, Tall | Light: adaptable from low to medium indirect 400 FC | Water: water when top 2” are dry | Soil: loose, nutrient-rich potting soil | Fert: fish/seaweed emulsion or microbe mix

Philodendron brandtianum Prismacolor™

Philodendron brandtianumis a climbing plant that grows on trees. This plant is also known as a rare climbing epiphyte living in harmony with the tree as it climbs for support. It is native to South America, where it grows in dry areas throughout the year. When grown as a houseplant its silvery young leaves are the allure. Replicating its epiphytic habits by providing support is vital to the success especially when the mature leaves can get quite large.

Height: 12 - 24 Inches | Habit: Upright, Vining | Light: adaptable from low to medium indirect 200 FC | Water: water when top 2” are dry | Soil: loose, nutrient-rich potting soil | Fert: fish/seaweed emulsion or microbe mix

Alocasia baginda Mythic™ Dragon Scale jewel Alocasia

‘Dragon Scale’ is prized for its unique, mottled green foliage, which includes deep green veins, touches of lighter green, and a light silvery sheen. As the foliage ages, it will get darker. It can reach up to 3 feet tall with the right conditions when grown outdoors in warm humid climates. Grown as a houseplant it is unlikely to grow that large.

Height: 12 - 36 Inches | Habit: Upright | Light: medium indirect 400 FC | Water: water when top 2” are dry | Soil: loose, nutrient-rich potting soil | Fert: fish/seaweed emulsion or microbe mix

Ficus benjamina ‘Twilight’ No Image available See general F. benjamina Height: nches | Habit: Upright, Tall | Light: adaptable from medium to bright indirect 400 - 1000 FC | Water: evenly moist but not sopping | Soil: loose, nutrient-rich potting soil | Fert: fish/seaweed emulsion or microbe mix

Calathea picturata No Image available Height: Inches | Habit: | Light: adaptable from low to medium indirect 200 FC | Water: water when top 2” are dry | Soil: loose, nutrient-rich potting soil | Fert: fish/seaweed emulsion or microbe mix