Indoor gardening offers people the chance to enjoy the color, fragrance and air-purifying qualities that plants have to offer even during the worst weather. Plants grown indoors add texture and beauty to homes. There are several common indoor plants that are hardy and have remained popular for years.
Mother-in-Law's Tongue (Sansevieria trifasciata) is an upright, sharp-formed succulent. Soil requirements are mixes that drain sharply and never stay sodden. Often planted in low light areas, S. trifasciata can also withstand low humidity. It has hard, pointed leaf tips, so use caution when allowing children to play around it. This plant is poisonous to cats and dogs.
The ponytail palm (Beaucarnea recurvata) has dark green, strappy leaves that can grow to 6 feet in length. This plant prefers well-drained soils and bright light. B. recurvata is drought tolerant, refusing to live if allowed to sit in water for extended lengths. Though growing up to 30 feet when planted outdoors, ponytail palms are lucky to grow over 8 feet when potted. Water when the foliage begins to wilt. This is especially important during the winter. The ponytail palm is not poisonous.
One of the most popular houseplants, the African violet (Saintpaulia) graces many kitchen windowsills across the country. The best growing temperatures for African violets range from 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This plant prefers bright, indirect light (east- or north-facing windows) and high humidity. Slightly acidic organic rich soils that retain moisture without staying sodden are ideal. Deadheading old blossoms promotes more blooms. This plant is non-toxic.