10 of the Most Beautiful Indoor Flowering Plants (2024)

Warning

Some of the plants on this list are toxic for pets. For more information about the safety of specific plants, consult the ASPCA's searchable database.

Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana)

Kalanchoe plants are long-flowering perennial succulents that are native to Madagascar, where they thrive in arid environments. The blooms come in a variety of colors including red, pink, yellow, and white, with the plant producing new flowers nearly year-round in response to sunlight. Also known as widow's thrill, kalanchoes enjoy acidic soil and grow best in clay pots when indoors.

African Violet (Saintpaulia ionantha)

One of the most popular plants to grow indoors, African violets thrive indoors. They are native to Tanzania and have delicate, fuzzy leaves. While African violets are known for their vibrant year-round purple blooms, there are also varieties with pink, red, blue, and white flowers. Because root rot is a common problem, selecting a well-draining pot is essential for these plants.

Lemon Tree (Citrus Limon)

Most citrus is typically grown outdoors, but lemon trees produce delightfully fragrant and delicate blooms before fruiting, and can be grown indoors in the right conditions. Trees need air flow and humidity, so you should make sure that there's good air circulation in your home. You'll also want a misting device for spraying your plant. In addition, lemon trees need ample sun and water, as well as regular fertilizing.

Jasmine (Jasminum polyanthum or Jasminum sambac)

Gardeners love jasmine because of its sweet fragrance and winter blooms. The plant typically sets in autumn and produces flowers the following February, so growers often leave it outside during this time to ensure the jasmine is exposed to cool temperatures before returning it to a spot near a window inside. A climbing plant, jasmine will need a trellis or some sort of support as it grows.

Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii)

Native to Central America, the peace lily is part of a genus of more than 40 species of tropical herbaceous perennial evergreens. Contrary to its name, these plants are not part of the lily family, and are instead related to other popular houseplants, including the philodendron and the alocasia. Growing up to 3 feet tall indoors, groupings of these plants can produce an impressive display.

Moon Orchid (Phalaenopsis orchid)

In tropical and subtropical Asia, where orchids are native, they grow in trees and thrive in soil with moss and bark. Also known as moth orchids, these flowering plants prefer warm, humid conditions and are commonly grown indoors around the world. Moon orchids are a favorite of many gardeners and produce showy purple, green, white, or pink flowers, depending on the specific variety.

Amaryllis (Hippeastrum petiolatum)

Native to Central and South America, amaryllis plants produce striking, trumpet-shaped flowers that are often striped or mottled. Grown from bulbs typically planted at the end of the fall or early winter, amaryllis likes containers that allow for about 2 inches of space between the bulb and the edge when planted. Ample water and organic fertilizer, applied after a flower bud has emerged, will encourage further blooming. Containing the toxic alkaloid lycorine, amaryllis is poisonous to cats and dogs.

Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii)

Christmas cacti are known for their flattened stems and vibrant red blooms that typically flower around Christmastime. An easy-care houseplant, these cacti aren't like the desert varieties; instead, they are native to the Brazilian rainforest and require more water. A Christmas cactus can live for 20-30 years when properly cared for and makes a great holiday gift.

Angel Wing Begonia (Begonia coccinea)

Named for its foliage, said to be shaped like the wings of angels, angel wing begonias produce clusters of flowers in a variety of colors including red, white, orange, or pink. This plant does not like to be misted, and too much humidity could encourage spots and mildew on the leaves. A fertilizer rich in potassium, as well as the removal of any flowers as they wilt and fade, will encourage the production of future blooms.

Cape Primrose (Streptocarpus saxorum)

Also known as twisted fruit or false African violet, cape primrose plants produce delicate, small, flowers, and have drooping foliage, making them ideal for hanging planters and tall pots. Native to Kenya and Tanzania, the small herbaceous plant cannot tolerate heat and prefers temperatures between 60-70 degrees, making it an ideal houseplant.