It's Black History Month, and we're celebrating with fun facts on plants and Black people who have made considerable contributions to our history.
Did you know that some of the most attractive houseplants come from Africa? From Aloe Vera to ZZ Plant, African houseplants are known for their unique structures and vibrant colors. This article will explore the types of African houseplants you can add to your indoor garden.
Africa is a continent that is home to some of the most diverse and exotic plants in the world. People worldwide have been intrigued by the wide range of beautiful houseplants that have originated from this continent for centuries. African houseplants are a great way to add a touch of exotic flavor to your home and provide a unique way of bringing the outdoors in. From the popular ZZ plant to the rare African violet, many houseplants are available if you want to incorporate African decor into your home.
The ZZ plant, or Zamioculcas zamiifolia, is one of the most popular indoor houseplants from East Africa. It is a low-maintenance plant that typically grows no more than two feet tall, making it one of the best houseplants for small spaces. This hardy species is straightforward to care for and often has glossy green-and-white variegated foliage. It prefers bright indirect sunlight and should be watered when the soil feels dry.
Another popular houseplant from Africa is the African violet or Saintpaulia ionantha. It is native to the eastern highlands of Tanzania and is widely cultivated in gardens across the continent. This delicate flower is available in various colors and can be grown indoors in a pot of soil with warm temperatures. It thrives in bright, indirect light and should be watered when the top two inches of the soil are dry.
African houseplants are a great way to bring the outdoors in and add a unique flair to your home. With so many different types of houseplants to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect one to suit your style.
Types of African Houseplants
For tropical indoor houseplants lovers, African houseplants offer an exciting and unique source of plants that are both beautiful and low-maintenance. African houseplants thrive with minimal attention and can provide a subtle yet modern touch to any home's decor. Here are a few of the most popular houseplants from Africa:
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is a unique and popular houseplant that originates from the continent of Africa and also has many healing properties. Aloe Vera is packed with vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, B, and E and minerals like calcium, iron, and magnesium — all of which are beneficial for overall health. It is a natural remedy for minor cuts and burns and can also be used to reduce inflammation and soothe skin irritations. With its hardy disposition and tough exterior, Aloe Vera tolerates dry conditions and minimal light making it an excellent indoor houseplant for beginners.
Snake Plant
One of Africa's most popular indoor houseplants is the snake plant, also known as Sansevieria. Native to tropical regions of Africa, this easy-to-care-for houseplant is an excellent choice for those with busy lifestyles. It requires very little water and thrives in low-light conditions, making it the ideal choice for a bright corner of your home or office. The plant's distinct broad, sword-shaped leaves give it its unique name and make it a decorative addition to any room. Snake plants are also believed to help purify the air, making them an excellent option for improving air quality in the home.
Spider Plants
Spider Plants are a species of indoor houseplant native to Africa that has become increasingly popular in recent years due to their ability to thrive with minimal care and attractive foliage. As the name suggests, Spider Plants have long "spidery" foliage, which typically consists of thin, wiry stems with small green, white, or variegated leaves. They can be easily propagated from existing plants, making them even more appealing for those new to gardening or for more experienced gardeners wanting to fill a space quickly.
Jade Plant
The Jade Plant (Crassula ovata) is popular for African indoor houseplants. It is known for its thick, dark green leaves and its ability to thrive without much water or sunlight. Native to Southern Africa, the Jade Plant is a low-maintenance houseplant that can be placed anywhere in the home or office. It is also a succulent, meaning it stores water in its leaves, making it ideal for those who don't have the time or ability to water plants frequently. The Jade Plant is a perfect choice for anyone looking to bring the beauty of Africa into their home.
ZZ Plant
One of the most popular houseplants originating from Africa is the ZZ plant. ZZ plants are ideal for indoor spaces, as they require little maintenance or water and thrive in low-light environments. They are also highly adorned for their evergreen foliage and air-purifying qualities. This common houseplant features glossy green foliage, which is a perfect way to add a touch of greenery to any space. In addition, ZZ plants are easy to care for and are known to be very resilient, making them a perfect choice for beginner gardeners.