Want to turn your home into a lush, Instagram-worthy jungle? Indoor trees are your best bet. They’re stylish, air-purifying, and surprisingly easy to care for—plus, some grow so fast you’ll swear they’re on steroids. In this guide, we’ll explore 10 stunning trees you can actually grow indoors, and we promise: #7 is a total speed demon.
Why Indoor Trees?
Indoor trees bring way more than just good looks. According to NASA’s Clean Air Study, many houseplants help filter harmful toxins like formaldehyde and benzene. On top of that, they:
- Boost mood and productivity
- Add natural humidity
- Make your space feel fresh and cozy
They’re also a great long-term investment. Instead of cycling through short-lived flowers, these green beauties stick around for years.
1. Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)
With giant, glossy violin-shaped leaves, this tree is a design favorite. It thrives in bright, indirect light and grows up to two feet a year if given enough sun, love, and the occasional pep talk.
Care Tips:
- Keep it near a sunny window.
- Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
Pro Tip: Rotate it every week to keep growth balanced and upright.
2. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
Think low-maintenance meets high-style. Rubber Plants can shoot up several feet annually indoors. They’re drought-resistant and great for folks who forget watering schedules.
Care Tips:
- Moderate light, occasional pruning.
- Wipe leaves clean for better photosynthesis.
Bonus: It’s great at removing indoor air pollutants.
3. Money Tree (Pachira aquatica)
Often braided and symbolic of prosperity, the Money Tree is loved for its thick canopy and forgiving nature.
Care Tips:
- Likes bright, filtered light.
- Don’t overwater—this guy hates soggy feet.
Fun Fact: Feng Shui enthusiasts believe this tree attracts good fortune.
4. Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina)
It’s graceful, fast-growing, and thrives with consistent light. You might see up to 30–60 cm of new height per month.
Care Tips:
- Avoid moving it frequently—it throws a fit by dropping leaves.
- Loves humidity and filtered light.
Tip: Use a humidity tray during dry winter months.
5. Citrus ‘Meyer’ Lemon Tree
Yup, lemons! This semi-dwarf citrus tree bears real, edible lemons indoors. It’s a two-in-one deal: fruit and fragrance.
Care Tips:
- Needs full sun (6–8 hours daily).
- Use a large pot with good drainage.
Hack: Hand-pollinate flowers indoors for more fruit yield.
6. Yucca
Looking for something modern and desert-chic? Yucca brings that sculptural touch. It’s drought-tolerant, tough as nails, and thrives in bright light.
Care Tips:
- Minimal watering.
- Avoid low-light areas.
Caution: Its pointed leaves can be sharp—keep out of kids’ play areas.
7. Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)
This is the speed demon we teased! Under the right light, Dieffenbachia can grow up to 2 feet a year. Plus, its variegated leaves look painted.
Care Tips:
- Bright, indirect light.
- Handle with care: sap is toxic if ingested.
Good To Know: Not pet-friendly, so keep out of reach if you have fur babies.
8. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
Super chill and perfect for low-light corners. This palm is also non-toxic to pets, making it a win for dog and cat parents.
Care Tips:
- Water only when soil is dry.
- Keep in indirect light.
Low Maintenance: Doesn’t need repotting often. Just leave it be!
9. Dragon Tree (Dracaena draco)
Its sword-like leaves and red-tinged edges give off serious sci-fi vibes. Though slow-growing indoors, it eventually hits 5-6 feet.
Care Tips:
- Tolerates low light.
- Water when soil is dry halfway down.
Air Quality Perk: Filters xylene, trichloroethylene, and formaldehyde.
10. Monstera Deliciosa
The Instagram queen of indoor plants! Its iconic split leaves and up to 2 ft/year growth make it a bold statement.
Care Tips:
- Bright, indirect light is ideal.
- A moss pole helps it climb and thrive.
Decor Tip: Pair it with jute baskets or ceramic pots for that boho-chic look.
How to Keep Indoor Trees Thriving
Growing trees indoors takes more than a pot and water. Here’s a crash course:
Pick the Right Tree for Your Space
- Small apartments? Go for Parlor Palm or Yucca.
- Bright sunrooms? Try Fiddle Leaf Fig or Citrus.
Understand Their Water Needs
- Overwatering is the #1 killer of houseplants.
- Always check soil moisture first.
Feed Them Right
- Use a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month (except in winter).
- Repot every 1-2 years as they grow.
Watch for Pests
- Spider mites, mealybugs, and scale are common.
- Neem oil or insecticidal soap usually does the trick.
Seasonal Adjustments
- Reduce watering during winter.
- Add grow lights if daylight drops too low.