Top 5 plants for your bookshelf with aesthetic appeal

Bookshelves overflow with stories and knowledge and often give your mind and heart a treat. But why not add a touch of nature to this place? Plants not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of any space, but they also purify the air and create a sense of calm. In this article you’ll learn about 5 beautiful plants that will transform your bookshelf.

Table of Contents

Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

The Golden Pothos is a versatile and easy-to-care-for plant, making it a perfect choice for bookshelf beginners. Its heart shaped, neon green leaves cascade gracefully from trailing vines, adding a sort of lush aesthetic to any space. This adaptable plant thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and requires watering only when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Golden Pothos perks

Low maintenance: Do you forget about watering? No problem, the Golden Pothos can tolerate some neglect.
Air purifier: This plant helps remove common toxins from the air helping you to breathe better.
Versatile climber: Train it to climb a moss pole for a vertical accent or let it drape elegantly over the edge of your bookshelf.

Pro tip: Golden Pothos comes in various forms, with splashes of white and cream on the leaves, adding a touch of whimsy to your bookshelf.

ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

For a touch of modern elegance, look no further than the ZZ Plant. This architectural marvel boasts glossy, dark green leaves which rise upright from its sturdy stems. The ZZ Plant thrives in low-light conditions, making it ideal for dimly lit bookshelves. Plus, it requires minimal watering, making it perfect for those with busy schedules.

ZZ Plant perks

Low light: You don’t need any sunny windowsill. This plant flourishes even in shady corners.
Low water tolerance: ZZ Plants can go long periods between waterings so if you are always on the run or forgetful, this is a great plant to choose.
Stylish: The clean lines and deep green foliage of the plant add a touch of sophistication to any decor.

Pro tip: While the ZZ Plant is generally non-toxic, it’s always a good practice to keep plants out of reach of pets and children.

String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)

Embrace the unconventional with the String of Pearls. This succulent features plump, pea-shaped, pearly-white leaves strung along cascading vines. Its unique texture and whimsical appearance make it a conversation starter. The String of Pearls thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and needs infrequent watering, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.

String of Pearls perks

Unique appearance: The pearly foliage adds a touch of whimsy to your bookshelf.
Easy maintenance: It can be watered sparingly and enjoy the low-maintenance beauty.
Low water tolerance: Perfect for those who forget to water their plants regularly.

Pro tip: String of Pearls can be propagated easily from stem cuttings, allowing you to create a mini String of Pearls family on your bookshelf.

Air Plants (Tillandsia spp.)

For a truly unique addition to your bookshelf, consider Air Plants. These fascinating plants don’t require soil! They absorb moisture and nutrients from the air through tiny scales on their leaves. Air Plants come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colours, allowing you to create a miniature, living sculpture on your bookshelf.

Air Plants perks:

Soil-free: No need for messy potting. These plants thrive without soil.
Low maintenance: Simply mist them regularly and provide bright, indirect light.
Endless creativity: Mount them on driftwood or place them in decorative terrariums for a personalised touch.

Pro tip: Research the specific needs of your chosen Air Plant variety, as watering frequency can vary depending on the species.

Philodendron Heartleaf (Philodendron hederaceum)

Craving a touch of the tropics on your bookshelf? Look no further than the Philodendron Heartleaf! This easy-to-care-for vine, boasting glossy, heart-shaped leaves, adds a cascading touch of elegance that will transform your bookshelf into a miniature oasis. Here’s why the Philodendron Heartleaf is the perfect leafy companion for your literary haven:

Philodendron Heartleaf perks

Effortless elegance: Cascading tendrils adorned with glossy, heart-shaped leaves create a lush, vertical accent on your bookshelf.
Adaptable to your space: Unlike some finicky plants, the Philodendron Heartleaf thrives in most lighting conditions, from bright, indirect sunlight to lower light settings. This means you can place it on a brightly lit shelf or a nook with slightly less light and it will still flourish.
Low-maintenance: Even forgetful plant parents can enjoy the Philodendron Heartleaf. It requires moderate watering, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. No need for a complicated watering schedule.
Endless customisation: Philodendrons come in a stunning array of colours and variegations. Choose from classic emerald green for a timeless touch, or opt for vibrant greens splashed with white and cream for a more playful look. This allows you to personalise your bookshelf and create a truly captivating miniature jungle that reflects your style.

Pro tip: Philodendrons are natural climbers. Train your Philodendron Heartleaf to climb a moss pole for a dramatic vertical accent, adding height and dimension to your bookshelf.

FAQs

Is the Philodendron Heartleaf easy to care for?

Absolutely. This vine thrives with moderate watering and adapts to most lighting conditions, making it a great choice for beginners.

How often should I water my Philodendron Heartleaf?

Allow the top inch of soil to dry out completely before watering again. This watering schedule prevents overwatering, a common issue with houseplants.

Does the Philodendron Heartleaf need a lot of light?

While it prefers bright, indirect sunlight, the Philodendron Heartleaf tolerates lower light settings as well.

Is the Philodendron Heartleaf toxic?

Unfortunately, yes. The Philodendron Heartleaf contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can be irritating to humans and pets if ingested. Keep it out of reach of children and curious animals.

Can I propagate my Philodendron Heartleaf?

Yes! Stem cuttings can be easily rooted in water or moist soil, allowing you to create a mini Philodendron family on your bookshelf.

How can I make my Philodendron Heartleaf climb?

Provide a moss pole for your Philodendron Heartleaf to grip onto. As it grows, it will naturally climb the pole, creating a dramatic vertical accent.

What colours and varieties do Philodendrons come in?

Philodendrons come in many colours and varieties. Choose from classic emerald green for a timeless look, or opt for vibrant greens splashed with white and cream for a playful touch.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at [email protected]

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