Indoor plants can spruce up your homes and offices as they bring a piece of nature inside your living space. They come in various kinds, like those with big leaves or blooming flowers. However, more than just being natural decors, they bring other benefits, too. They can purify the air and some can even be used as culinary ingredients or home remedies.
With so many sellers offering indoor plants, choosing the best can be overwhelming. So, here in this article, we'll help you select the right one for your home or office through our top 10 picks and buying guide. To know how to take care of your new plant, check out the tips section for more information. Let's begin and unleash the plantito or plantita in you!
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The products and services listed are ranked independently by the editorial team based on the points mentioned in our thoroughly researched buying guide (as of 03-20-2023).
Table of Contents
Indoor plants not only serve as decorations, but they also have good physiological and psychological effect on humans and animals. Here are some benefits of decorating our indoor spaces with houseplants.
Sometimes when our mood is at its greatest, we could feel restless. Our concentration level decreases, so our productivity and quality of work output are also compromised. But as we look around, plants catch our attention and make us feel relaxed.
Looking at green objects such as plants relaxes your eyes and mind after a few hours of working with your computer screen. Plus, according to a study published by APA Psycnet, greenery in the room can increase employees' productivity well-being by 15%. With this, your eyes and mind will be refreshed, ready again for another few hours of work.
Indoor plants absorb harmful toxins, so placing them can help clean the air, so we can breathe fresher air. According to NASA research, two regular-sized plants are enough to absorb such toxins in a 100-square-foot room. Toxins can be acquired from various sources that can affect our health.
For instance, formaldehyde is a pollutant from wood materials such as furniture and floorings, while benzenes can be found in nail polish, paint strippers, cleaning products, and adhesives. Meanwhile, microbes can come from anywhere in the house.
Putting some indoor plants make for a natural way to decorate our space. Their green foliage and flowers, if any, can add life and texture to a gloomy rooms. And since we spend most of our time inside our homes and workplaces, keeping these houseplants is our way to reconnect to nature.
The number of plant enthusiasts is growing exponentially. So, indoor plants could be a great conversation starter with your relatives and friends visiting your homes and clients going to your office.
Some indoor plants can also be used as culinary ingredients. Herbs such as basil, chives, and peppermint can be added to your favorite dishes, drinks, and desserts to enhance their flavor.
Others can serve as natural home remedies too! For example, sage and mint are used as natural medicines for colds, coughs, sore throat, and the like. Meanwhile, the aloe vera has healing properties for the skin from burns or wounds.
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
It is a great idea to have indoor plants that are multi-purpose and suit your interest. For example, if cooking is your hobby, try choosing culinary herbs. Not only will you have fresh ingredients all the time, but you can also save some money!
Purchase indoor flowering plants if you are into home designs, as they are naturally beautiful and a perfect ornament in our homes. The peace lily's white flowers give a classy and clean appeal, but if you want a pop of color, you can never go wrong with orchids!
There are also indoor plants such as citronella and basil that can get rid of mosquitoes and other harmful insects. Choose medicinal plants if you want to have first aid or natural home remedies such as aloe vera. With all these interests, make sure to consider the health benefits you will receive.
For beginners and busy people who are into indoor gardening, start with low-maintenance indoor plants like the golden pothos and tree philodendron. They need low to moderate light, and they don't have to be watered frequently.
Some plants can thrive even with once-a-month watering. These are also recommended for plant lovers who do not possess a green thumb or have no time to water due to their hectic schedules. Make sure to choose plants so that you can maintain the schedule of bringing them out under the sunshine and watering them for a "recharge."
Children and pets are naturally curious and adventurous with their surroundings. So, they tend to explore things in our homes, like indoor plants, that they may touch or ingest. And unfortunately, several indoor plants may release toxins that could be harmful to them.
So when you have children and pets, it is best to have non-toxic indoor plants to display in your homes. These plants will also work well if you have sensitive skin or allergies. Orchids and spider plants are proven safe and pet-friendly while peace lilies are toxic to our feathered and furry friends.
Like any other living things, plants need space to grow and survive. They must have an enough space in the rooms and be well-ventilated so they won't dry out and die.
Space must be carefully considered because you do not want a plant that is too big for your room. It will create more inconvenience than comfort. The space will also be a determinant of the number of plants you will place especially if you are after for filtering toxins.
Plants with big leaves and large foliage are ideal for bigger areas like office lobbies, bedrooms, bathrooms, and living rooms. If you are living in an apartment or condo, opt for smaller plants and hanging plants to fit into a limited space. Small potted plants also suit well on the top of your desks.
The amount of light is also a factor that must be considered because even indoor plants require adequate sunlight. Check the room if there would be spots for sun exposureーbright, low, or direct sunlight. Depending on the light exposure, it is best to do some research on the right plant suitable for the room.
Besides water, air and humidity are also essential in their photosynthesis to produce more oxygen. Most indoor plants need a well-ventilated room to grow and thrive while a few of them can tolerate enclosed spaces. With that said, you must evaluate the room condition and research for indoor plants appropriate for it.
Green and good-shaped leaves indicate healthy plants, while plants with new buds can continue to thrive and grow while having the "stamina" to perform their roles, such as removing air toxins and boosting one's mood. Check for any sign of plant diseases such as brown or yellowish spots and pests.
In addition, overly shiny or polished leaves are also a red flag because these plants may contain chemicals or fertilizers. With this, ask the seller to send pictures of the actual plants and message them for questions to avoid the hassle of returns if you are not satisfied.
With the growing number of plantitos and plantitas comes a growing number of sellers too! Nonetheless, we still highly recommend checking reliable sellers who are knowledgeable with plantsーhorticulturists and those with plant nurseries and farms.
You can also read the customers' online reviews and keep an eye on their feedback about the packaging and the plant's condition when it was delivered. It is also best to purchase from a merchant near you to prevent damage during shipment.
From ₱499
This plant is considered indestructible for a reason. Besides being a low-maintenance plant, it also thrives in various conditions. It is best raised with low to moderate light exposure, but it can also withstand extremely low light levels. This makes it a good plant for a bathroom without windows that only relies on fluorescent lights.
Additionally, it only needs water when the soil is dry, which is great for busy plant parents. To style your bathroom with this plant, you can put it on the floor—it is guaranteed to jazz up the bare area with its beautiful foliage! Furthermore, it can also help purify the air inside your bathroom.
Type | Multi-Purpose |
---|---|
Light Exposure | Bright Indirect Light |
Watering Frequency | Once a Week |
Soil Moisture | Well-Draining Soil |
Precautions | Toxic to Pets |
Seller's Location | Metro Manila |
From ₱25
For beginners and busy people who want low-maintenance plants, this plant is the perfect choice for your office desks and center tables! Cabbage succulents can absorb and store water for a long time, so watering them once a week is enough for them to survive.
Succulents have low nutrient requirements, which means you only need to fertilize them once or twice a year. Plus, they do not need much sun exposure; fluorescent lights can help supplement when the natural light is insufficient. On top of all that, succulents purify the air and continuously produce oxygen, even at night, which is why many people prefer to have these plants at home or in the office.
Type | Multi-Purpose |
---|---|
Light Exposure | Bright Indirect Light |
Watering Frequency | Once a Week |
Soil Moisture | Pebbly, Sandy Soil |
Precautions | Needles Are Potential Allergen |
Seller's Location | North Luzon |
From ₱30
Spider plants are one of the most well-known indoor plants because of their ability to filter carbon monoxide and produce more oxygen, improving air quality. It can also absorb the harmful ozone in the air produced by copiers and laser printers. Additionally, they are safe for children and pets because they are non-toxic. They are even edible and are said to be a potential prebiotic.
Many favor spider plants because they don't easily wilt, only need to be watered once a week, and can thrive in low-light areas. If you want to grow them more quickly, place them in bright and indirect sunlight. Note that whiteflies and bugs could be a concern, but you can easily get rid of them as long there is good air circulation and enough soil moisture.
Type | Multi-Purpose |
---|---|
Light Exposure | Bright Indirect Light |
Watering Frequency | Once to Twice a Week |
Soil Moisture | Well-Draining Soil |
Precautions | Contains Chemical Compounds |
Seller's Location | Metro Manila |
From ₱50
If you're looking for a beginner-friendly plant to grow, the snake plant makes for a great pick. This plant has tall, stiff, and upright leaves, which can thrive even in low-light areas. It can also tolerate humidity, so you can place these in your bathroom to spruce up the space a little bit.
Additionally, snake plants have air-purifying qualities, too! This is backed by NASA researches, stating that they can absorb carbon monoxide and other toxins. They are also the perfect plant to place in classrooms and offices, as studies have shown that these plants can help enhance memory, concentration, and mental health.
Type | Multi-Purpose |
---|---|
Light Exposure | Bright Indirect Light |
Watering Frequency | Once a Week |
Soil Moisture | Well-Draining Soil |
Precautions | Mildly Toxic |
Seller's Location | Metro Manila |
From ₱50
Want to have a healthy-looking trailing plant in your space but don’t have a green thumb? The Pothos may be a suitable plant for you. Optimal for both indoors and outdoors, this vine plant is very forgiving when it comes to watering and feeding. Plus, it would look good in your space with its heart-shaped leaf filled with yellow streaks.
Golden Pothos thrive on bright but indirect sunlight; never expose it to intense direct light. Sparsely water the plant every one to two weeks. Plant problems could range from wilting, overly yellow leaves, or blackening stems, yet most of these issues can be resolved by proper watering methods.
Type | Trailing |
---|---|
Light Exposure | Bright Indirect Light |
Watering Frequency | Once a Week |
Soil Moisture | Well-Draining Soil |
Precautions | Toxic |
Seller's Location | North Luzon |
From ₱80
Peace lilies are regarded as one of the most popular decor plants in offices and living rooms because of their white flowers that bloom beautifully. These plants can absorb volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that have adverse effects on humans. They can also absorb excess moisture to avoid molds and mildew in bathrooms and toilets.
Peace lilies need decent light exposure but can tolerate shaded areas. A word of cautionーpeace lilies contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation when they come in contact with the skin or mouth, so it is highly advised to keep them out of reach of children and pets.
Type | Flowering |
---|---|
Light Exposure | Low to Bright Indirect Light |
Watering Frequency | Once to Twice a Week |
Soil Moisture | Well-Draining Soil |
Precautions | Toxic |
Seller's Location | South Luzon |
From ₱340
The rubber tree is known for its big, fleshy, and glossy leaves, that have a striking burgundy color. Putting this plant in any room can definitely add some dimension and appeal. Not only does the rubber plant look good, but it also has outstanding air-purifying properties.
This plant can absorb and help eliminate carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, formaldehyde, and other toxins that could possibly pollute the air in your home. What's more, is that rubber trees require low maintenance, too! You only need to water it twice to thrice a week but note that it is toxic, so keep it out of reach of children and pets.
Type | Multi-Purpose |
---|---|
Light Exposure | Low to Bright Indirect Light |
Watering Frequency | Once a Week |
Soil Moisture | Well-Draining Soil |
Precautions | Sap Is Toxic |
Seller's Location | Metro Manila |
From ₱55
The Chinese Evergreen or Aglaonema is an eye-catching desk plant that symbolizes prosperity and long life for some Asian cultures. Tough and low-maintenance, this plant can thrive even in artificial lighting and needs no fertilizer. This is a popular choice for those who have little light in their offices and are looking for the best low light desk plants.
They can get by with once-a-week watering, and the best part? They'll let you know when it's time by dramatically dropping their leaves. Known for their recognizable green, white, and at times pink-spattered foliage, the Aglaonema can brighten the bleakest of work areas without the tedious upkeep.
Type | Multi-Purpose |
---|---|
Light Exposure | Bright Indirect Light |
Watering Frequency | When Soil Becomes Dry |
Soil Moisture | Well-Draining Soil |
Precautions | Toxic |
Seller's Location | Metro Manila |
From ₱85
The aloe vera plant is perhaps one of the most common houseplants that people grow as it requires low maintenanceーit can be grown under multiple conditions! It only needs to be watered once a week, and it can tolerate up to 6 hours of direct sunlight a day.
Not only that, but it can also purify the air, clearing out carcinogens such as benzene and formaldehyde, and boasts many uses. The gel stored in its leaves can be used to soothe sunburn and insect bites, moisturize the skin, reduce skin inflammation, and it can also be used in different drink recipes!
Type | Medicinal |
---|---|
Light Exposure | Direct to Bright Indirect Light |
Watering Frequency | When Soild Becomes Dry |
Soil Moisture | Well-Draining Soil |
Precautions | May Be a Potential Allergen |
Seller's Location | North Luzon |
From ₱149
If you're a fan of parsley, you'll love this herb! Like parsley, basil is well known for its culinary purposes. It's no wonder why, especially when added to pesto. Aside from pesto, basil is a great addition to any dish since it has a slightly sweet and peppery taste.
Similar to parsley, this popular herb is easy to grow—you just need well-draining soil and ample sunlight. It needs at least six hours of full sun per day to produce large and lush leaves. Plus, it can be grown all year round. Remember to prune the top leaves frequently to allow new buds to grow.
Type | Herb |
---|---|
Light Exposure | Direct Light |
Watering Frequency | When Soil Becomes Dry |
Soil Moisture | Well-Draining Soil |
Precautions | Not Applicable |
Seller's Location | Metro Manila |
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
Indoor plants differ in watering frequencies, so you really have to research the indoor plants' recommended watering schedules. Some need to be watered every other day, while others may require up to eight times a week. But generally speaking, most of them depend on soil moisture.
A great practice is to check the soil moisture using your finger. If you stick your finger into the soil's surface, and you feel it dry that it cannot even enter, then your plant needs to be watered. If the soil feels moist and if it sticks a little to your finger, then it still has enough water.
There are several reasons that indoor plants turn yellow. The most common culprit is moisture stress due to overwatering or underwatering the plants. It may also be due to aging, which is a normal process for plants too! Trimming off the yellow leaves will allow for newer and greener leaves to grow.
Cold drafts can also trigger the yellowing of plants, and you can solve this by misting them and putting them a little far from your aircon. Insufficient exposure to sunlight, nutrient deficiency, and viral infections can also cause such problems in plants.
Most indoor plants can be repotted once every two to three years. And since the Philippines has no spring season, the best time to repot them is during the cold season (around January or February) just before the warm weather starts around March or April.
However, you don't need to wait for the a specific month or weather to repot indoor plants if they show some red flag signs. Frequent dehydration, drooping leaves, and roots outgrowing the pots are the common signs that your plants need repotting.
Of course, indoor plants need containers to hold the soil and serve as a base support for them while growing and thriving. To help you pick the best pots and planters, we have written several articles about them. Just click the link below, go over our recommended products, and consider buying some!
Author: Roel Pillas Malubay
Re-editor: J Ausa
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
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