A little care goes a long way.

Thick, rounded leaves grow in opposite pairs on branching stems that become woody with age.

Light

A bright windowsill suits it well. Introduce stronger sunshine gradually to avoid scorching the leaves.

Water

Let the compost dry between waterings, then water and drain fully. It needs much less water in a cool, darker winter room.

Pot & compost

Use peat-free cactus or succulent compost in a pot with drainage holes.

A little extra care

A little succulent feed during active growth is enough. Healthy stem or leaf cuttings can be used to grow new plants.

What to look out for

Soft stems or yellowing leaves with persistently wet compost can indicate overwatering.

Keep away from pets that chew plants.

Further reading: RHS · NC State Extension

Photo: Cyril Gourdan · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Arching, strap-like leaves are green or striped. Mature plants often produce little plantlets on long stems.

Light

Bright, indirect light is ideal. Protect it from strong midday sun; very deep shade slows growth.

Water

Water when the surface of the compost begins to dry, allowing the pot to drain. Check less often in winter, when growth slows.

Pot & compost

Use a free-draining, peat-free houseplant compost and a pot with drainage holes.

A little extra care

Feed lightly while growing. Plantlets can be rooted in small pots, giving you new plants to share.

What to look out for

Brown tips can have several causes, including dry conditions, excess fertiliser or salts in the water. Check its conditions before adding more feed.

Further reading: RHS · NC State Extension

Photo: Maja Dumat · CC BY 4.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Glossy, pointed green leaves rise from the base. The white, hood-like flower bracts surround an upright central spike.

Light

Give it indirect light, away from scorching sunshine. A brighter position usually encourages more flowers.

Water

Let the top of the compost dry slightly, then water and drain. Keep the rootball gently moist rather than soggy, and reduce watering in winter.

Pot & compost

Use a moisture-retentive but free-draining, peat-free houseplant compost.

A little extra care

Wipe dust from the leaves and remove faded flower stems near the base. Feed lightly while the plant is actively growing.

What to look out for

Drooping can mean dry compost, but wet, damaged roots can also cause it. Check the pot before watering again.

Harmful if chewed or eaten; keep away from children and pets that chew plants.

Further reading: RHS · NC State Extension

Photo: Cindy Christian · CC BY 4.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Large, heart-shaped leaves develop splits and holes as the plant matures. Young leaves may be completely solid.

Light

Choose bright, indirect light. Protect leaves from strong direct summer sun.

Water

Allow the upper few centimetres of compost to dry before watering thoroughly. Let all excess water drain away.

Pot & compost

Use an airy, free-draining, peat-free houseplant mix and a pot with drainage holes.

A little extra care

Give climbing stems a sturdy support, wipe dust from leaves and feed lightly during active growth.

What to look out for

Yellow leaves and wet compost can point to overwatering. A young plant without leaf holes is not necessarily unhealthy.

Sap can irritate; avoid chewing or eating the plant and wash hands after handling cut stems.

Further reading: RHS · NC State Extension

Photo: Maja Dumat · CC BY 2.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Heart-shaped leaves grow along trailing or climbing stems. Many varieties have yellow, cream or pale-green markings.

Light

Bright, indirect light keeps growth fuller and helps maintain variegation. It tolerates lower light, but grows more slowly.

Water

Let the upper part of the compost dry before watering. Drain thoroughly and water less often when growth slows.

Pot & compost

Use a free-draining, peat-free houseplant compost in a pot with drainage holes.

A little extra care

Trim long stems to encourage a bushier plant. Stem cuttings that include a node can root to make new plants.

What to look out for

Blackened edges and wet compost can indicate root problems. Markings may fade if the position is too dark.

Harmful if chewed or eaten; keep away from children and pets that chew plants.

Further reading: RHS · NC State Extension

Photo: Dell Enecks (Pitt County) · CC BY 4.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Stiff, upright, sword-shaped leaves have green banding; some varieties also have yellow edges.

Light

It grows best in good light, but tolerates light shade. Introduce direct sunshine gradually.

Water

Let the compost dry right through before watering again. It may need very little water in winter; do not water just because a week has passed.

Pot & compost

Use free-draining, peat-free cactus compost. Never leave the inner pot standing in water.

A little extra care

Wipe the leaves occasionally and feed sparingly during active growth.

What to look out for

Soft, yellowing leaf bases with wet compost can indicate too much water. Choose a warm position away from cold draughts.

Keep away from pets that chew plants.

Further reading: RHS · NC State Extension

Photo: Dell Enecks (Pitt County) · CC BY 4.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Glossy, oval leaflets sit in pairs along thick, upright stalks. The plant grows slowly from swollen underground rhizomes.

Light

Bright, indirect light is best. It copes with lower light, but avoid intense direct sunshine.

Water

Let the compost dry between waterings. Its fleshy roots store water, so a damp pot is a reason to wait, not add more.

Pot & compost

Use a free-draining, peat-free houseplant mix and a pot with drainage holes.

A little extra care

Remove dust gently and feed only occasionally during active growth. Slow growth is normal.

What to look out for

Yellowing stalks and constantly wet compost can indicate overwatering. Reduce watering further in a darker winter position.

Harmful if chewed or eaten; keep away from children and pets that chew plants.

Further reading: NC State Extension

Photo: Susan Broderick · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Large, thick, oval leaves grow on upright stems. Varieties may be deep green, burgundy or variegated with cream and pink.

Light

Choose bright, indirect light, particularly for variegated varieties. Protect it from strong afternoon summer sun.

Water

Let the top few centimetres of compost dry, then water and drain fully. Water less often when winter growth slows.

Pot & compost

Use free-draining, peat-free houseplant compost. Move up only a little in pot size when roots need more room.

A little extra care

Wipe the broad leaves with a damp cloth and keep it in a steady, warm position. Feed lightly while growing.

What to look out for

Leaf drop can follow cold draughts, a sudden change of conditions or overwatering.

Milky sap can irritate skin. Wear gloves when pruning and keep cut material away from children and pets.

Further reading: NC State Extension

Photo: Margaret Shear · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Slender, arching branches carry many small, pointed oval leaves. Some plants have cream-edged foliage or braided stems.

Light

Give it bright, indirect light and a stable position away from cold draughts.

Water

Allow the surface to dry slightly before watering. Keep some moisture lower in the pot, without leaving it waterlogged.

Pot & compost

Use free-draining, peat-free houseplant compost in a pot with drainage holes.

A little extra care

Try not to move it repeatedly between different light levels. Feed lightly during active growth.

What to look out for

A change of location can trigger leaf drop. Check light, temperature and moisture before assuming it needs more water.

Milky sap can irritate skin. Wear gloves when pruning and keep away from pets that chew plants.

Further reading: NC State Extension

Photo: Darsie · CC0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Broad, leathery leaves have a violin-like outline, prominent veins and gently wavy edges.

Light

Give it plenty of bright, indirect light. Protect it from harsh afternoon sun and cold draughts.

Water

Let the top few centimetres of compost dry before watering thoroughly. Drain away excess water rather than leaving the pot in a full saucer.

Pot & compost

Use a free-draining, peat-free houseplant compost. Avoid moving it into a much larger pot.

A little extra care

Keep conditions steady, wipe dust from the leaves and feed lightly while growing.

What to look out for

Brown patches or leaf drop have several possible causes, including watering problems and temperature changes. Check the roots and position before treating it.

Milky sap can irritate skin. Wear gloves when pruning; harmful if chewed or eaten.

Further reading: NC State Extension

Photo: NC Cooperative Extension · CC BY 2.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Pointed, heart-shaped leaves grow along slim stems that can trail from a shelf or climb a support.

Light

Medium to bright, indirect light suits it well. Lower light is tolerated, but avoid scorching direct sunshine.

Water

Let the surface of the compost begin to dry before watering. Keep the roots gently moist, never sitting in water, and reduce watering in winter.

Pot & compost

Use an airy, free-draining, peat-free houseplant mix.

A little extra care

Provide a support or let stems trail. Trim long shoots to keep a fuller shape and feed lightly during active growth.

What to look out for

Persistently wet compost can cause root rot. Check leaf undersides for pests if growth becomes weak or marked.

Harmful if chewed or eaten; keep away from children and pets that chew plants.

Further reading: NC State Extension

Photo: KENPEI · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Round, coin-like leaves sit on long stalks attached near the middle of each leaf. Small offsets often appear around the base.

Light

Bright, indirect light is ideal. Keep it away from strong midday sun, radiators and cold draughts.

Water

Let the surface of the compost dry slightly, then water and drain. Avoid keeping the pot constantly wet.

Pot & compost

Use a free-draining, peat-free houseplant compost and a pot with drainage holes.

A little extra care

Turn the pot occasionally for even growth. Well-rooted offsets can be separated during the growing season.

What to look out for

Long, stretched stems can indicate insufficient light. Wet compost encourages root problems.

Further reading: NC State Extension

Photo: Kevin Walsh · CC BY 2.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Fleshy, pointed leaves form a rosette, with small teeth along the edges. Young plants may have pale spots.

Light

Choose a very bright position. Introduce direct sunshine gradually so leaves have time to adjust.

Water

Allow the compost to dry fully between waterings, then water and drain. Give very little water during a cool, low-light winter.

Pot & compost

Use gritty, peat-free cactus or succulent compost and a pot with drainage holes.

A little extra care

Separate well-rooted offsets when repotting. Feed only lightly during active growth.

What to look out for

Soft leaves and a wet pot can indicate overwatering. Do not let water collect in the centre of the rosette.

Keep away from pets that chew plants. This guide covers growing the plant, not using it as a food or treatment.

Further reading: NC State Extension

Photo: K. Andre · CC-BY-SA 2.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Many arching, feathery green fronds form a soft, spreading clump, often displayed in a hanging pot.

Light

Choose bright, indirect light, away from scorching sunshine and hot radiators.

Water

Keep the compost gently moist. Water as the surface begins to dry, rather than letting the whole rootball dry out. Always drain away excess.

Pot & compost

Use a moisture-retentive but free-draining, peat-free houseplant compost.

A little extra care

A naturally humid room with daylight suits it well. Remove dead fronds near the base and feed lightly while growing.

What to look out for

Dry, brittle fronds can follow dry compost or dry air. Neat rows of brown dots on the undersides may be normal spores.

Further reading: NC State Extension

Photo: David Eickhoff · CC BY 2.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Fine, feathery fronds rise from thin green stems. Several young palms are often grown together in one pot.

Light

Bright, indirect light is best. It tolerates a little shade, but strong direct sun can damage the fronds.

Water

Allow the upper compost to dry slightly before watering. Drain fully and reduce watering when growth slows in winter.

Pot & compost

Use free-draining, peat-free houseplant compost. Repot only when needed, into a slightly larger container.

A little extra care

Keep it out of cold draughts and feed lightly during active growth. Remove fully brown fronds near the base.

What to look out for

Check for spider mites or mealybugs if the fronds become discoloured. Avoid trying to fix every brown tip with extra water.

Further reading: NC State Extension

Photo: Cindy Christian · CC BY 4.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Thick, broad leaves form a small clump beneath arching flower stems. Pale aerial roots often grow outside the pot.

Light

Bright, filtered light is ideal. Keep it out of strong direct summer sun and in a consistently warm room above 16°C.

Water

Water as the bark begins to dry, using tepid water, then drain completely. Do not leave it standing in water or let water sit in the leaf crown.

Pot & compost

Use specialist bark-based orchid compost, not ordinary multipurpose compost. A clear pot makes checking the roots easier.

A little extra care

Use orchid feed lightly during active growth, following the label. Repot when the bark breaks down, usually about every two years.

What to look out for

Firm, pale or green aerial roots are normal. Soft, hollow or rotting roots need attention to watering and compost.

Further reading: RHS · NC State Extension

Photo: Hope Duckworth · CC BY 4.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Flat, joined stem segments trail over the pot, with colourful flowers at the tips. Segment edges may be rounded or pointed.

Light

Give it bright, indirect light. This is a tropical forest cactus, so protect it from harsh direct sunshine.

Water

Keep the compost lightly moist while growing and flowering. During cooler rest periods, let the top few centimetres dry, but do not dry the whole pot completely.

Pot & compost

Use free-draining, peat-free cactus compost in a snug pot with drainage holes.

A little extra care

A cooler spell around 12–15°C in early autumn helps encourage buds. Reduce watering during the rest, then resume regular checks as buds develop.

What to look out for

Sudden temperature changes or watering problems can cause buds to drop. Keep flowering plants in a steady position.

Further reading: RHS · NC State Extension

Photo: Cindy Christian · CC BY 4.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Glossy, heart-shaped leaves sit below colourful, waxy bracts with a central flower spike. Bracts may be red, pink or white.

Light

Bright, indirect light encourages flowering. Protect it from direct sun and cold draughts.

Water

Water when the top few centimetres of compost feel dry. Keep some moisture below, but let excess water drain away.

Pot & compost

Use an airy, free-draining, peat-free houseplant mix rather than dense, waterlogged compost.

A little extra care

Choose a warm, humid position with good light. Feed lightly while growing and remove faded flower stems.

What to look out for

Low light can reduce flowering. Yellow leaves can have several causes, so check drainage and watering before adding fertiliser.

Harmful if chewed or eaten; keep away from children and pets that chew plants.

Further reading: NC State Extension

Photo: Forest and Kim Starr · CC BY 3.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Tufts of long, narrow leaves grow from upright woody canes. Leaves often have reddish edges, sometimes with cream stripes.

Light

Choose bright, indirect light. Avoid intense sunshine and cold draughts.

Water

Let the upper part of the compost dry before watering again, without leaving the whole rootball dry for a prolonged period. Drain fully.

Pot & compost

Use a free-draining, peat-free houseplant compost in a pot with drainage holes.

A little extra care

It needs little feeding. Wipe dust from the leaves and feed sparingly during active growth.

What to look out for

Brown tips can be linked to water quality as well as care conditions. If the problem persists, consider rainwater or distilled water.

Keep away from pets that chew plants.

Further reading: NC State Extension

Photo: Cindy Christian · CC BY 4.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Broad, patterned oval leaves spread from a low clump. Leaves often lift or fold upward at night.

Light

Choose bright, filtered or indirect light. Strong direct sunshine can fade or scorch the markings.

Water

Keep the compost lightly moist during growth, never soggy. Reduce watering in winter, allowing the surface to dry a little between checks.

Pot & compost

Use a moisture-retentive but free-draining, peat-free houseplant mix.

A little extra care

Provide warmth and humidity away from radiators and cold draughts. Feed lightly during active growth; too much fertiliser can damage leaves.

What to look out for

Curling or dry edges can follow dry conditions. Check moisture and humidity, and look for pests on leaf undersides.

Further reading: RHS · NC State Extension

Photo: Maja Dumat · CC BY 4.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Long, broad, leathery leaves rise separately from the compost. Most are dark green, although striped and speckled varieties are available.

Light

A position with gentle, indirect light suits it well. It tolerates lower light than many houseplants, but still needs daylight; avoid strong direct sun.

Water

Water when the surface of the compost has started to dry, then drain well. Water less in winter and avoid keeping the rootball constantly wet.

Pot & compost

Choose free-draining, peat-free houseplant compost and a pot with drainage holes.

A little extra care

Wipe dust from the leaves and feed lightly during active growth. Repot only when crowded; this is naturally a slow grower.

What to look out for

Scorched patches can follow strong sunshine. Check the compost before treating yellow leaves as a sign that it needs more water.

Further reading: RHS · NC State Extension

Photo: Cathy DeWitt · CC BY 4.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Broad, pointed leaves often have silver, cream, pink or red markings. Colour and leaf shape vary considerably between varieties.

Light

Bright, indirect light is ideal. Green varieties cope with lower light; more colourful plants usually need a brighter position to keep their markings.

Water

Allow the surface of the compost to dry slightly before watering, then drain completely. Reduce watering when growth slows in winter.

Pot & compost

Use free-draining, peat-free houseplant compost in a pot with drainage holes.

A little extra care

Keep it warm and away from cold draughts. Wipe the leaves occasionally and feed lightly while it is growing.

What to look out for

Brown edges can follow cold draughts or dry air. Yellow leaves with wet compost can point to overwatering.

Harmful if chewed or eaten; the sap can irritate skin. Wear gloves when cutting stems and keep away from children and pets that chew plants.

Further reading: RHS · NC State Extension

Photo: Cindy Christian · CC BY 4.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Broad, arching, strap-like leaves grow in tufts on woody canes. Many varieties have a yellow, lime-green or cream stripe.

Light

Give it bright to moderate, indirect light. Avoid strong sunshine through glass, which can burn the leaves.

Water

Let the top of the compost start to dry before watering. Keep the roots gently moist during active growth, never waterlogged, and water less in winter.

Pot & compost

Use free-draining, peat-free houseplant compost and an inner pot with drainage holes.

A little extra care

Keep away from cold draughts and radiators. Wipe dusty leaves and feed lightly while new growth is appearing.

What to look out for

Brown tips can have several causes, including dry air and salts in the water or fertiliser. If persistent, try rainwater or distilled water and review feeding.

Keep away from pets that chew plants.

Further reading: NC State Extension

Photo: Cindy Christian · CC BY 4.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Clusters of slender, bamboo-like canes carry arching, feathery fronds. The stems and leaf stalks often have a yellow-green tint.

Light

Choose a bright position with indirect light. Protect the fronds from strong direct sunshine through glass.

Water

Keep the compost gently moist while growing and let excess water drain. In winter, let the surface dry slightly before watering; do not let the whole rootball become bone-dry.

Pot & compost

Use free-draining, peat-free houseplant or palm compost in a pot with drainage holes.

A little extra care

It appreciates humid air and a warm position away from radiators. Feed during active growth and remove only fully dead fronds.

What to look out for

Dry air can lead to brown tips and encourage spider mites. Check beneath the leaflets for fine webbing rather than simply adding more water.

Further reading: RHS · NC State Extension

Photo: Kathleen Moore · CC BY 2.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Long, arching fronds have slender, drooping leaflets. Several young palms are often grown together in one pot for a fuller appearance.

Light

Bright, indirect light suits it well, although it tolerates a position with less daylight. Keep it out of harsh direct sunshine.

Water

Keep the rootball gently moist during active growth and always drain excess water. Let the surface dry slightly between winter waterings.

Pot & compost

Use free-draining, peat-free palm or houseplant compost. Avoid moving it into a much larger pot.

A little extra care

Keep away from cold draughts and direct radiator heat. Feed lightly while growing, and repot only when needed with as little root disturbance as possible.

What to look out for

Remove fully brown fronds, but leave healthy green ones and the central growing point. Check brown tips alongside watering, humidity and feeding.

Further reading: RHS · NC State Extension

Photo: East West Trees · CC BY 2.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Upright woody canes carry rosettes of stiff, sword-shaped green leaves. Older plants may have a thick, swollen trunk base.

Light

Give it a very bright position. It can take sunshine, but introduce stronger light gradually if it has been kept in shade.

Water

Let most of the compost dry before watering thoroughly and draining. Give much less water in a cool, darker winter room.

Pot & compost

Choose a stable pot with drainage holes and a gritty, peat-free cactus or succulent compost.

A little extra care

Turn the pot occasionally for even growth. Remove dry lower leaves carefully and feed sparingly during active growth.

What to look out for

A soft cane or yellowing leaves with wet compost can indicate rot. Avoid cold draughts and standing water in the outer pot.

Harmful if eaten; keep away from pets that chew plants.

Further reading: NC State Extension

Photo: someone10x · CC BY 2.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Trailing or climbing stems carry lobed leaves. Indoor varieties often have smaller leaves, sometimes edged or splashed with cream or yellow.

Light

Give it indirect light, with a brighter position for variegated varieties. It tolerates some shade and generally prefers a cooler room to a hot spot beside a radiator.

Water

Water when the upper layer of compost has begun to dry. Drain well and check less often in winter, especially in a cool room.

Pot & compost

Use free-draining, peat-free multipurpose or houseplant compost in a pot with drainage holes.

A little extra care

Trim long stems to keep it bushy. Healthy stem cuttings can be rooted to make new plants.

What to look out for

Hot, dry rooms encourage spider mites. Look for pale, speckled leaves and fine webbing, and check the growing conditions.

Harmful if eaten and the sap can irritate skin. Wear gloves when pruning and keep away from children and pets that chew plants.

Further reading: RHS · NC State Extension

Photo: Cristina · CC BY 2.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Small, round, pea-like leaves grow along slender trailing stems, creating strings of green beads over the edge of the pot.

Light

Choose bright, indirect light, with light reaching the top of the pot as well as the trailing stems. Protect from strong midday summer sun.

Water

Let the compost dry between waterings, then water modestly and drain well. Water very sparingly in winter, without leaving the leaves shrivelled for long periods.

Pot & compost

Use gritty, peat-free cactus or succulent compost in a pot with drainage holes. Avoid an oversized pot.

A little extra care

Let the stems trail from a bright shelf or hanging planter. Feed sparingly during active growth; healthy stem cuttings can make replacement plants.

What to look out for

Soft, translucent leaves and wet compost can indicate overwatering. Sparse growth at the top may mean too little light.

Harmful if eaten; the sap can irritate skin. Wear gloves when pruning and keep out of reach of children and pets.

Further reading: RHS · NC State Extension

Photo: Cindy Christian · CC BY 4.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Small, heart-shaped leaves with silver-green markings and purple undersides grow in pairs along wiry trailing stems.

Light

Give it bright, indirect light. A little gentle sunshine can suit it, but introduce stronger light gradually.

Water

Allow the compost to dry between waterings, then water and drain. Reduce watering further in winter when growth slows.

Pot & compost

Use a small pot with drainage holes and gritty, peat-free cactus or succulent compost.

A little extra care

Leave room for the stems to trail or guide them around a small support. Repot only when necessary and feed sparingly while growing.

What to look out for

Long gaps between leaves can mean too little light. Small bead-like growths on the stems are normal tubers and can be used for propagation.

Further reading: NC State Extension

Photo: Maja Dumat · CC BY 2.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

A compact rosette of soft, furry leaves supports clusters of violet, pink, white or blue flowers. Many flower colours and forms are available.

Light

Choose bright, filtered light, away from strong summer sunshine. Too little light can reduce flowering.

Water

Water with room-temperature water when the compost surface begins to dry. Keep the crown and leaves dry; if watering from below, drain away any water left afterwards.

Pot & compost

Use a light, free-draining, peat-free houseplant or African violet compost in a small pot with drainage holes.

A little extra care

Keep it consistently warm, away from cold draughts. Remove faded blooms carefully and feed with an appropriate flowering-houseplant fertiliser while growing.

What to look out for

Cold water on the leaves can leave marks. Soft crowns and persistently wet compost can indicate rot.

Further reading: RHS · NC State Extension

Photo: Hope Duckworth · CC BY 4.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Large, often asymmetrical leaves have striking silver, green, pink, red or purple patterns. Some varieties have curled or spiralling leaves.

Light

Bright, indirect light shows off the foliage without scorching it. Avoid hot, direct sunshine.

Water

Water when the surface of the compost starts to dry, keeping it gently moist below. Drain well and use less water in winter.

Pot & compost

Use a light, free-draining, peat-free houseplant compost and a pot with drainage holes.

A little extra care

Give it warm, humid conditions with gentle air movement. A bright kitchen or bathroom can suit it. Remove dead leaves and avoid misting the foliage.

What to look out for

Powdery patches or rotting leaves can follow poor airflow or prolonged wetness. Keep water off the leaves and do not leave the pot standing in water.

Harmful to pets if eaten; keep away from animals that chew plants.

Further reading: RHS · NC State Extension

Photo: Cindy Christian · CC BY 4.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Thick, waxy leaves grow along trailing or climbing stems. Mature plants may produce rounded clusters of fragrant, star-shaped flowers.

Light

Give it bright, indirect light. Too little daylight can prevent flowering; protect it from hot midday sun.

Water

Let the upper compost dry before watering, then drain fully. Avoid both constant sogginess and prolonged drought, and reduce watering in winter.

Pot & compost

Choose an airy, fast-draining, peat-free mix with bark or perlite, in a pot with drainage holes.

A little extra care

Train long stems onto a support or let them trail. Leave the short flower spurs in place after blooming, as they can flower again.

What to look out for

Avoid moving the plant while it is in bud. Bud drop can follow changes in light or compost that is too wet or too dry.

Further reading: RHS · NC State Extension

Photo: Matt Stevens (Pitt County) · CC BY 4.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Trailing stems carry pointed leaves striped with silver and green, usually with purple undersides. The stems root readily at their joints.

Light

Bright, filtered light keeps the colours strong and the growth compact. Protect from intense summer sunshine.

Water

Let the top of the compost begin to dry before watering. Drain well, and reduce watering when growth slows in winter.

Pot & compost

Use free-draining, peat-free houseplant compost and a pot with drainage holes.

A little extra care

Pinch out shoot tips or trim long stems to encourage bushier growth. Healthy stem cuttings are an easy way to refresh an older plant.

What to look out for

Long, bare stems and fading leaf colour can mean too little light. Soft stems with soggy compost may indicate rot.

The sap can irritate skin; wear gloves when pruning and keep away from pets that chew plants.

Further reading: NC State Extension

Photo: Maja Dumat · CC BY 4.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Small, oval leaves have a network of white, pink or red veins. It forms a low, spreading plant with soft stems.

Light

Choose bright to moderate, indirect light. Strong direct sun can scorch the delicate leaves.

Water

Keep the compost lightly and evenly moist, watering as the surface starts to dry. Do not let it become bone-dry or leave it standing in water.

Pot & compost

Use moisture-retentive but free-draining, peat-free houseplant compost. Its shallow roots suit a relatively small pot.

A little extra care

Keep in a humid position away from cold draughts. Pinch out long shoots to encourage a fuller plant; small varieties can suit a terrarium.

What to look out for

It can wilt dramatically when dry, but wet roots can also cause wilting. Feel the compost before watering rather than treating every droop the same way.

Further reading: NC State Extension

Photo: Hope Duckworth · CC BY 4.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Soft, oval leaves are splashed or spotted with pink, red or white. The markings vary widely between varieties.

Light

Give it bright, indirect light to keep the colours clear and growth compact. Avoid scorching summer sunshine.

Water

Keep the compost gently moist while growing, watering when the surface begins to dry. Drain excess water and reduce watering in winter.

Pot & compost

Use free-draining, peat-free houseplant compost in a pot with drainage holes.

A little extra care

Pinch out growing tips regularly to keep it bushy. It is often short-lived indoors, but healthy stem cuttings can give you fresh plants.

What to look out for

Long, weak stems and fading markings can indicate too little light. Wilting calls for a compost check, as both dryness and wet roots can cause problems.

Further reading: NC State Extension

Photo: Cindy Christian · CC BY 4.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Glossy, fleshy leaves with scalloped edges support clusters of small, long-lasting flowers in bright colours. Double-flowered varieties are also common.

Light

Give it plenty of bright light, protecting it from intense midday summer sunshine.

Water

Let the compost dry between waterings, then water and drain thoroughly. It needs much less water when growth slows.

Pot & compost

Use free-draining, peat-free cactus or succulent compost and a pot with drainage holes.

A little extra care

Remove faded flower clusters and feed lightly during active growth. To flower again, it needs a period of long, uninterrupted nights; normal evening room lighting can interfere.

What to look out for

Soft stems or yellow leaves with wet compost can indicate rot. A plant that has finished flowering can still grow on as a leafy succulent.

Harmful if eaten; keep out of reach of children and pets that chew plants.

Further reading: RHS · NC State Extension

Photo: Lyubo Gadzhev · CC-BY-SA 2.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

A swollen, bottle-shaped trunk stores water, while long, narrow leaves curl down from the top like a ponytail. It is not a true palm.

Light

Choose a very bright position, including some sunshine. Introduce stronger light gradually if moving it from a darker spot.

Water

Let the compost dry between waterings, then water and drain well. Give very little water during a cool, darker winter.

Pot & compost

Use gritty, peat-free cactus or succulent compost in a stable pot with drainage holes. Keep the swollen trunk base above the compost surface.

A little extra care

Feed sparingly during active growth and repot only when needed. Normal household humidity generally suits it.

What to look out for

A soft trunk base with wet compost can signal rot. A few dry lower leaves are normal as it grows.

Further reading: NC State Extension

Photo: Maja Dumat · CC BY 4.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Fleshy leaves form a neat, rose-like rosette, often in pale green or blue-grey. Mature plants may make small offsets around the base.

Light

Give it the brightest practical position, with some sunshine. Introduce stronger sun gradually to avoid scorching.

Water

Let the compost dry between waterings. Water the compost rather than filling the leaf rosette, then drain well; reduce watering greatly in winter.

Pot & compost

Use a small pot with drainage holes and gritty, peat-free cactus or succulent compost.

A little extra care

Turn the pot occasionally for even growth and feed sparingly while growing. Handle gently to preserve the natural powdery coating on the leaves.

What to look out for

An open, stretched rosette often needs more light. Soft, translucent leaves with wet compost can point to overwatering.

Further reading: RHS · NC State Extension

Photo: Dick Culbert · CC BY 2.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

A compact rosette of pointed, dark green leaves is covered with raised white spots or bands. Offsets often form around the base.

Light

Bright, indirect light is ideal. Protect it from hot, direct summer sunshine through glass.

Water

Allow the compost to dry between waterings, then water and drain completely. Reduce watering in winter and keep water out of the centre of the rosette.

Pot & compost

Use gritty, peat-free cactus or succulent compost in a small pot with drainage holes.

A little extra care

Feed sparingly during active growth. Established offsets can be separated carefully when they have developed roots.

What to look out for

Soft, yellowing leaves with wet compost can indicate rot. This plant is often sold under the older name Haworthia; check the botanical name when buying.

Further reading: RHS · NC State Extension

Photo: Guillaume Clin · CC BY 4.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide

Pale, oval leaves have dark green feather-like markings and patterned purple undersides. The leaves often lift or fold upwards at night.

Light

Choose bright, indirect light, away from strong direct sun. Very low light can weaken the growth and leaf markings.

Water

Keep the compost evenly moist during active growth, never soggy. Let the surface begin to dry in winter and use room-temperature rainwater or distilled water where possible.

Pot & compost

Use moisture-retentive but airy, free-draining, peat-free houseplant compost and a pot with drainage holes.

A little extra care

Keep it warm and humid, away from cold draughts and radiators. Gently wipe dusty leaves and feed lightly during active growth.

What to look out for

Curling leaves or brown edges can follow dry air, inconsistent watering or water quality problems. Check all three before adding more water.

Further reading: RHS · NC State Extension

Photo: Daderot · CC0 1.0 · Photo source

Link to this guide