When it comes to decorating our living spaces, incorporating plants not only adds beauty but also brings a sense of tranquility and freshness. However, choosing the right plants for specific areas of our homes can make a significant difference in their growth and overall well-being. In this article, we will delve into the topic of finding the best plants for the north direction of your home. Whether you have a north-facing window, a shaded corner, or any other space in the northern part of your house, we will explore various plant options that thrive in such conditions.
Understanding the North Direction
Before we dive into the specific plants suitable for the north direction, let’s take a moment to understand the characteristics of this particular orientation. In the northern hemisphere, the north direction receives limited direct sunlight throughout the day, resulting in cooler temperatures and less intensity of light. If you’re wondering what side of the house do you plant hydrangeas, keep in mind that plants placed in these areas should be able to tolerate lower light levels and thrive in slightly cooler environments. Consequently, it’s important to choose plants that are well-suited for these conditions to ensure their growth and success.
Low-Light Loving Plants
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
The Snake Plant, also known as Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, is an excellent choice for the north direction. It is a hardy and low-maintenance plant that thrives in low light conditions. Its elongated, sword-like leaves add a touch of elegance to any space, while also improving indoor air quality by filtering out toxins.
2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ Plant is another top contender for areas with limited light. It features glossy, dark green leaves that can tolerate neglect and thrive in low-light environments. The ZZ Plant is known for its ability to store water in its rhizomes, making it highly drought-tolerant and resilient.
3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos, often referred to as Devil’s Ivy, is a popular choice for indoor spaces due to its adaptability and aesthetic appeal. This trailing vine plant showcases heart-shaped leaves that come in various shades of green and variegations. Pothos can tolerate low light levels, making it an ideal addition to north-facing rooms.
Shade-Loving Plants
1. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
The Cast Iron Plant lives up to its name by being one of the toughest and most resilient houseplants. It thrives in low light conditions and can adapt to a wide range of temperatures. With its deep green, broad leaves, the Cast Iron Plant adds a touch of lushness to any corner of your home, especially in the north direction.
2. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
The Peace Lily is a popular choice for its elegant white flowers and its ability to purify the air. Although it prefers bright, indirect light, it can tolerate lower light conditions, making it suitable for the north direction. The Peace Lily’s glossy, dark green leaves create a visually pleasing contrast against its delicate blooms.
3. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
The Chinese Evergreen is a versatile plant that thrives in low to moderate light levels. Its attractive foliage comes in various shades of green, often accented with silver, cream, or pink. The Chinese Evergreen adds a tropical touch to any space and is an excellent choice for the north direction due to its shade-loving nature.
Conclusion
Selecting the right plants for the north direction of your home allows you to bring life and vibrancy to areas that receive limited light. The plants mentioned in this article, such as Snake Plants, ZZ Plants, Pothos, Cast Iron Plants, Peace Lilies, and Chinese Evergreens, are just a few examples of the many options available. Remember to consider the specific lighting conditions, temperature, and humidity levels of your space when choosing plants to ensure their optimal growth.
