Instead of the usual flowers and chocolates, consider gifting a houseplant with heart-shaped leaves this Valentine's Day. These plants not only last longer but also add a lovely touch to any space.
Searching for a thoughtful gift for yourself or a friend? Indoor plants are always a fantastic choice. They enhance our living spaces, boost our mood, and offer a fulfilling hobby.
With so many options, heart-shaped leaf plants are especially fitting for the occasion. Here are top picks from the experts.
Anthuriums showcase stunning blooms
Top 5 Houseplants Featuring Heart-Shaped Leaves
These enchanting picks, including both trailing and flowering varieties, will brighten up any room.
1. Arrowhead Plant
These plants boast stunning foliage
Juliette Vassilkioti, a plant enthusiast, loves arrowhead plants for their low maintenance and vibrant leaf patterns. 'As they grow, they can develop trailing stems and larger leaves, adding a fun element to your decor.'
These plants thrive in low to medium light. Juliette advises against direct sunlight and suggests keeping the soil slightly moist without letting it dry out completely. 'Regular trimming helps maintain their attractive shape.'
Check out the 'Neon Robusta' arrowhead plant from Lively Root for its lovely pinkish hues.
2. String-of-Hearts
A trailing plant that looks great high up
Vladan Nikolic, known as Mr. Houseplant, recommends string-of-hearts for their delicate, heart-shaped leaves. 'These plants often bloom small pink flowers in summer.'
He suggests repotting annually with nutrient-rich soil. 'Being a succulent, it needs well-draining soil to avoid overwatering,' he notes. A bright, indirect light location works best.
3. Anthurium
Anthuriums make a bold statement indoors
Available from various retailers, anthuriums are striking flowering plants with heart-shaped leaves and blooms. They consistently produce stunning flowers in colors like white, pink, and red.
Juliette mentions that anthuriums flourish in medium light and should be kept out of direct sunlight. It's crucial to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy for optimal health.
4. Monstera
Monsteras are admired for their large, unique leaves
Autumn Hilliard-Knapp from Perfect Plants Nursery describes the Monstera deliciosa as a trendy houseplant that brings a tropical flair indoors. Its leaves start heart-shaped and become large and glossy as they mature.
This plant prefers bright, indirect light but can adapt to lower conditions. Autumn advises watering thoroughly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Misting the leaves or placing a water tray nearby can help increase humidity.
5. Heart-Leaf Philodendron
Fast-growing and easy to care for
Also known as Philodendron hederaceum, this trailing tropical plant has leaves that grow up to 4 inches while the vines can exceed 4 feet. Vladan notes that it's often displayed in hanging baskets or trained to climb.
Providing bright light is essential, but protect it from direct sun to prevent leaf damage. Regular misting can also help maintain humidity.
Best Heart-Shaped Houseplants for Small Spaces
Trailing varieties like string-of-hearts and heart-leaf philodendrons are ideal for compact areas. They can be hung from ceilings to maximize space while creating an attractive look.
For a more compact option, the sweetheart succulent is a charming little plant perfect for desktops or bedside tables.
Easiest Heart-Shaped Houseplants to Care For
Arrowhead plants are low-maintenance and perfect for novice plant owners.
String-of-hearts are also user-friendly, provided you handle their delicate stems with care. Similarly, heart-leaf philodendrons are generally forgiving and drought-resistant.
With proper care, these houseplants can thrive for years, providing long-lasting beauty. If you also enjoy seasonal blooms, the most romantic spring flowers will surely captivate you.
