There’s no better way to bring color into your home than with brightly colored, red houseplants. There are an endless variety of red houseplants to choose from, ranging from beginner plants to some that are better left to expert growers. We’ve rounded up a list of some of the best (prettiest, most interesting, easiest to grow) for you to see here!
Red Houseplant Meaning and Symbolism
When the color red appears on plants, flowers, or in life, it usually represents love, romance, passion, or fiery feelings like anger. Since red runs through our veins, it can also symbolize blood and sacrifice. Some red plants also symbolize cheerfulness, hospitality, and good luck.
25 Beautiful Types of Red Houseplants and How to Grow Them:
Here you’ll find 25 of our favorite red houseplants that will thrive in various living environments. We’ve included a brief care guide for each so you can find the perfect pick for your own unique living environment.
1. Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)
A hibiscus blossom likely comes to mind when you imagine a tropical flower. Hibiscus flowers range from bright whites and creams to yellow, peach, oranges, pink, and red. Several species of red-colored, flowering hibiscus shrubs exist, but the Hibiscus rosa-sinensis is one of the most popularly grown and best for growing indoors. Also called the Hawaiian or Chinese hibiscus, this flowering plant has an exotic-looking flower with papery red petals, a fiery stamen, and a dusting of bright-yellow pollen.
| GENERAL CARE: | Some species are very difficult to cultivate indoors. Others can be grown successfully when treated as indoor plants that summer outside. |
| SOIL: | Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.5 and 6.8 |
| LIGHT: | Bright, direct light |
| TEMP & HUMIDITY: | 50°F to 60°F in winter, no higher than 90°F in summer, and high humidity |
| WATERING: | High watering needs during the growing season. Water as soon as the top layer of soil is dry every 7 to 14 days. |
| FEEDING: | In spring and summer, feed weekly with a balanced fertilizer diluted to 1/4 strength. |
| GROWTH: | Blossoms stretch 4 inches in diameter, and the shrubs can reach 3 to 16 feet tall. |
| TOXICITY: | Non-toxic to people. Toxic to pets. |
2. Fittonia (Fittonia albivenis)
The fittonia is widely loved as a houseplant for its strikingly marked leaves. As red or white vein lines run throughout its foliage. Thanks to the appearance of its leaves, these beautiful types of red houseplants are also commonly called the nerve plant or mosaic plant. Fittonia is native to the rainforests of South America, where it has been traditionally used as a pain reliever and psychedelic.
| GENERAL CARE: | Moderately difficult to grow due to humidity needs |
| SOIL: | Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH of about 6.5 |
| LIGHT: | Indirect, filtered sunlight to partial shade |
| TEMP & HUMIDITY: | The ideal temperature is around 70°F and requires high humidity |
| WATERING: | Maintain evenly moist soil to avoid fainting due to underwatering and yellowing due to standing water. Mist frequently to prevent the plant from drying out. |
| FEEDING: | Spring and summer only feed regularly with a balanced 5-5-5 fertilizer or tropical plant fertilizer diluted to 1/2 strength. |
| GROWTH: | Grows to be 3 to 6-inches tall with a 12 to 18-inch trailing spread |
| TOXICITY: | Non-toxic to pets. Non-toxic to humans but does have some hallucinogenic properties. |
3. Flaming Sword (Vriesea splendens)
The Vriesea splendens is commonly called the flaming sword plant for its fiery red, spike or sword-shaped inflorescence that resembles a flaming sword. A member of the bromeliad plant family, the flaming sword features a rosette of sturdy, lance-shaped leaves with attractive stripes of light and dark shades of green.
| GENERAL CARE: | Reasonably easy to grow indoors with the right conditions |
| SOIL: | Well-draining, bromeliad or orchid potting mix |
| LIGHT: | Filtered sunlight or partial shade |
| TEMP & HUMIDITY: | Temperatures between 70°F to 80°F and humidity above 50% |
| WATERING: | Water the plant’s rosette regularly to maintain about 1 inch of filtered water at room temperature. Water the soil lightly when it has begun to dry to keep roots barely moist. |
| FEEDING: | Spring and summer only, feed monthly with a 1/2 strength, balanced liquid fertilizer. |
| GROWTH: | Fully grown, the flaming sword plant can reach 2 to 3 feet tall. |
| TOXICITY: | Non-toxic to pets and people |
4. Red Congo Philodendron (Philodendron rojo congo PBR)
Commonly referred to as both the rojo Congo philodendron (sometimes Congo rojo philodendron) and red Congo philodendron, this plant boasts large, paddle-shaped leaves that are glossy and a deep burgundy red. This plant grows naturally in South America, and unlike other philodendrons in its family, it does not climb or vine. Instead, its leaves self-head atop their stem, growing upward and outward.
For more, see our in-depth guide to the best types of philodendron to grow as houseplants.
| GENERAL CARE: | Low-maintenance and easy to grow |
| SOIL: | Well-draining, acidic to neutral potting mix |
| LIGHT: | Indirect, filtered sunlight to full shade. |
| TEMP & HUMIDITY: | This plant is cold-sensitive and should be kept away from drafts. The ideal temperature ranges between 75F and 85F. Prefers moderate humidity. |
| WATERING: | Water regularly when the top inch of soil is dry, but never allow the plant to sit in standing water. |
| FEEDING: | Give this heavy feeder an application of slow-release fertilizer two to three times yearly. |
| GROWTH: | Mature plants reach about 2 feet in height and 2.5 feet in diameter. |
| TOXICITY: | Toxic to people and pets |
5. Anthurium
Native to Central America, parts of the Caribbean, and much of South America, anthuriums are epiphytes, which means that they grow on other plants – rather than in the soil – and gather nutrients from the air, rain, and other debris as it gathers around them.
Although you’ll find them commonly growing from the bark of trees in the wild, these stunning red houseplants thrive indoors in a potted environment. Their brightly-colored blooms look like shiny, hearts and represent hospitality.
| GENERAL CARE: | Easy to grow |
| SOIL PREFERENCES: | Well-draining potting mix of 1/2 potting soil and 1/2 perlite or orchid mix |
| LIGHT: | Bright, filtered sunlight |
| TEMP & HUMIDITY: | 65°F to 80°F and moderate to high humidity |
| WATERING: | Water regularly when the soil is dry to the touch. Anthuriums are prone to root rot, so be sure your plant never sits in standing water. |
| FEEDING: | Spring and summer only, feed monthly with a balanced fertilizer diluted to 1/3 strength. |
| GROWTH: | Mature plants reach about 1 to 1.5 feet in height. |
| TOXICITY: | Toxic to pets and people |
6. Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima)
Although well-known for its cherry-red coloring, the poinsettia’s crimson, leaf-like structures are bracts that surround its much smaller true flowers upon blooming. In their native environments (Mexico and parts of Central America), poinsettias grow into large trees or shrubs.
The classic winter season red houseplant, poinsettias, is a popular holiday purchase that many owners struggle to keep alive throughout the rest of the year. With the proper care, however, it can be done!
| GENERAL CARE: | Moderately challenging |
| SOIL: | Well-draining, loamy or peat-based, neutral to acidic soil |
| LIGHT: | Bright, indirect sunlight to partial shade |
| TEMP & HUMIDITY: | 65°F to 75°F (avoid cold drafts) and moderate to high humidity |
| WATERING: | Water when the top of the soil feels dry. Saturate soil completely, but allow excess water to drain completely. |
| FEEDING: | Do not fertilize while blooming. Spring and summer only, feed a balanced, 1/2 strength fertilizer monthly. |
| GROWTH: | Up to 10 feet tall and 7 feet wide |
| TOXICITY: | Mildly toxic to pets. Non-toxic to humans, but ingestion can cause stomach upset. |
7. Red Moon Cactus (Gymnocalycium mihanovichii)
You’ve likely run into a moon cactus or ruby ball cactus at your local garden center or grocery store flower shop. These attractive cacti are the Frankensteins of the flower department because they’re comprised of two plants grafted together: the red-colored portion and the green portion of the cactus. The brightly colored part of this red houseplant could not survive on its own because it has mutated to lack chlorophyll, which eliminates all green cells and reveals its bright color.
| GENERAL CARE: | Low-maintenance and easy to grow |
| SOIL: | Bright, direct sunlight |
| LIGHT: | Nutrient-rich, fast-draining cactus potting mix with a low pH |
| TEMP & HUMIDITY: | Winter temperatures shouldn’t drop below 50°F or 60°F. Tolerates high heat in spring and summer. Prefers low humidity. |
| WATERING: | In spring and summer, water frequently (daily outdoors or every few days indoors). Always allow excess water to drain completely. Watering in winter is not necessary. Mist occasionally, instead. |
| FEEDING: | Feed monthly spring to fall with a fertilizer formulated for cacti. |
| GROWTH: | Usually remains under a foot tall. Size depends on root growth. |
| TOXICITY: | Non-toxic to people and pets |
8. Crown of Thorns Plant (Euphorbia milii)
Euphorbia milii is commonly called the Christ plant or crown of thorns plant because its older growth stems are covered in sharp, spiky thorns that resemble depictions of the crown of thorns Christ has been artistically depicted wearing.
These popular types of red houseplants are native to Madagascar and are admired for their attractively colorful bracts surrounding their much-smaller blossoms. These bracts are typically bright-red or pink in color and are less often colored white.
| GENERAL CARE: | Low-maintenance |
| SOIL: | Well-draining, gritty or rocky soil mix |
| LIGHT: | Full sun |
| TEMP & HUMIDITY: | Prefers low humidity and warm temperatures but can tolerate temperatures down to 55°F |
| WATERING: | Drought tolerant. Keep root ball regularly moistened in summer by watering when the top inch or two of soil has dried. Water less frequently in fall and winter. Always allow excess moisture to drain. |
| FEEDING: | Spring and summer only, feed weekly with a water-soluble fertilizer. |
| GROWTH: | 3 to 6 feet tall and 1.5 to 3 feet wide |
| TOXICITY: | Toxic to people and pets |
9. Bromeliads
We’ve already mentioned one bromeliad species (the flaming sword), but Bromeliaceae is a family of plants containing thousands of bromeliad species. One of the most popular is the pineapple! Many bromeliads also produce a central inflorescence in bright-red, red-orange, and other shades of fiery hue. Some bromeliads even have reddish or maroon-colored foliage, and that’s why the plant family is on this list.
| GENERAL CARE: | Easy to grow |
| SOIL: | Fast-draining, acidic potting soil with a pH ranging from 5 to 6 |
| LIGHT: | Bright, indirect sunlight |
| TEMP & HUMIDITY: | 55°F to 80°F and humidity between 40% and 60% |
| WATERING: | Water weekly in spring and summer, keeping the central rosette watered in especially dry conditions. Reduce watering in winter. |
| FEEDING: | Apply a liquid fertilizer diluted to 1/4 strength monthly during the growing season only. |
| GROWTH: | The largest species of bromeliad reaches about 13 feet in height. Most species grown as houseplants will reach about 1.5 feet at the tallest. |
| TOXICITY: | Non-toxic to pets and people |
10. Red Asian Coral Phalaenopsis Orchid (Phalaenopsis red coral)
Red Asian coral phalaenopsis (red coral or red Asian phalaenopsis) is one among many species of phalaenopsis or moth orchids. This particular orchid’s blossoms feature a dusty hue of coral-red tinged by a cool reddish-purple. These stunning red houseplants are a hybrid of two species of orchids, the Phalaenopsis buyssoniana and the Phalaenopsis doris.
| GENERAL CARE: | Delicate, but low-maintenance |
| SOIL: | Well-draining, moist potting medium containing mostly bark |
| LIGHT: | Bright shade or filtered sunlight. No direct light. |
| TEMP & HUMIDITY: | 65°F to 70°F and moderate to high humidity that rises with the temperature |
| WATERING: | In spring and summer, water weekly, keeping the potting medium moist. During the flowering season (winter), reduce watering. Never let the plant sit in standing water. |
| FEEDING: | In spring and summer, fertilize weekly with diluted or weak orchid fertilizer. |
| GROWTH: | Grows to about 2 feet tall |
| TOXICITY: | Non-toxic to people and pets |
11. Red Elephant Ear (Caladium)
Elephant ear is the common name given to plants belonging to the Caladium genus because they produce large, broad, heart-shaped leaves that resemble an elephant’s ears. There are thousands of elephant ear plants, many of which produce striking red stalks, pure-red foliage, and even bi-colored leaves of red and green.
| GENERAL CARE: | Moderately difficult to cultivate indoors (but worth the effort!) |
| SOIL: | Rich, well-draining potting mix. |
| LIGHT: | Medium-bright light with protection from the midday sun |
| TEMP & HUMIDITY: | At least 65°F and high humidity |
| WATERING: | In spring and summer (when foliage is growing), water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. Mist periodically and add a humidity tray to the base of the plant. During the winter, trim back foliage and stop watering until the growing season resumes. |
| FEEDING: | Spring and summer only, feed a balanced fertilizer monthly. |
| GROWTH: | Mature plants reach about 2 feet tall and 2 feet wide |
| TOXICITY: | Toxic to pets and people |
12. Coleus (Coleus scutellarioides)
If you enjoy pops of color, then you’ll love coleus plants. While there are several species, the ones with the showiest colors and patterns are cultivars of Coleus scutellarioides. The colors and markings on these leafy beauties genuinely stand out, with the most vibrant coleus leaves featuring a center of saturated, bright red, or magenta surrounded by deep maroon and rimmed in neon green. Plus, the colors last throughout the year!
| GENERAL CARE: | Moderate maintenance requirements but easy to grow |
| SOIL: | Choose a neutral to slightly acidic (pH 6 to 7), rich, loose potting soil that stays moist. |
| LIGHT: | Partial to full shade. No direct sunlight. |
| TEMP & HUMIDITY: | Prefers high humidity and temperatures of at least 70°F. Keep away from cool drafts and dry heat vents. |
| WATERING: | Prefers evenly moist – never soggy – soil. Indoors, water once or twice a week and more frequently in warm or dry environments. |
| FEEDING: | Provide a well-balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks. |
| GROWTH: | Can reach up to 3 feet tall and wide |
| TOXICITY: | Toxic to people and pets |
13. Bloodleaf Plants (Iresine)
Iresine is a genus of flowering plants that contains about 30 species—also called bloodleaf plants, beefsteak plants, and chicken gizzard plants, likely due to their bright colors and unusual leaf markings.
Every part of these amazing red houseplants is so vibrantly colored that it almost looks spray-painted. Different species’ colors range from vibrant violets and pinks that look like they would glow under a black light to deep ruby and blood-red.
| GENERAL CARE: | Moderate care needed |
| SOIL: | Slightly acidic (5.6 to 5.9) loamy soil |
| LIGHT: | Partial sun to partial shade |
| TEMP & HUMIDITY: | Prefer warm, humid indoor environments. Place near a bathroom or in a window away from cold drafts. Expose to temperatures no lower than 50°F. |
| WATERING: | Keep the soil constantly moist without allowing the plant to sit in standing water. Water weekly in spring and summer and less frequently during winter. |
| FEEDING: | Spring and summer feed weekly with a liquid fertilizer that is high in nitrogen. |
| GROWTH: | 12 to 18-inches tall at indoor maturity |
| TOXICITY: | Non-toxic to pets and people |
14. Kalanchoe (Kalanchoideae)
About 125 species of these flowering tropical succulent plants grow natively in Madagascar and tropical parts of Africa. They feature broad, waxy, paddle-shaped leaves and bloom year-round with clusters of miniature flower blossoms in shades of red (of course), pink, orange, yellow, and white. The Kalanchoe pinnata is particularly well regarded for its small bell-shaped blooms and is also rich in meaning and symbolism. Fun fact: kalanchoe was one of the first plants ever sent to space.
| GENERAL CARE: | Low-maintenance and easy to care for |
| SOIL: | Well-draining, acidic soil (50% cactus potting mix and 50% potting soil) |
| LIGHT: | Full sunlight to partial shade |
| TEMP & HUMIDITY: | Not too picky! Comfortable between 50°F to 80°F and thrives in just about any level of humidity |
| WATERING: | This plant is drought-tolerant. Saturate soil completely every couple of weeks and allow excess water to drain. |
| FEEDING: | Spring and summer, feed once a month with a well-balanced fertilizer. To encourage blooms, choose a fertilizer that contains potassium. |
| GROWTH: | 1 to 1.5 feet tall and wide at maturity |
| TOXICITY: | Non-toxic to people. Toxic to pets. |
15. Red Begonia (Begonia)
The Begonia genus contains about 1,800 perennial flowering plants that produce some pretty, impressive, showy blossoms that outshine their attractive, deep-green foliage. Begonia flowers grow in shades of yellow, orange, pink, white, and red. If you want to grow the prettiest varieties of red begonias, look for hybrids and cultivars of the Begonia semperflorens.
| GENERAL CARE: | Easy to grow |
| SOIL: | Well-draining, fertile potting mix (try a soilless potting mix) |
| LIGHT: | Filtered sunlight to partial shade (no full sun) |
| TEMP & HUMIDITY: | Average household temperatures and moderate to high humidity |
| WATERING: | Prone to overwatering. Only water when the soil has dried completely. |
| FEEDING: | Monthly, apply a balanced, liquid fertilizer diluted to 1/4 strength |
| GROWTH: | 1 to 1.5 feet tall at maturity |
| TOXICITY: | Toxic to people and pets |
16. Triostar Stromanthe (Stromanthe sanguinea)
The triostar is no ordinary green houseplant. While it’s not recommended for beginner green thumbs, its beauty is truly worth the effort of giving this plant everything it needs to look its best. Like the tristar’s similar-looking cousins, calathea plants, triostars belong to the prayer plant family (Marantaceae), and its leaves fold upward at night and outward at sunrise.
However, this stunning red houseplant is most loved for its beautiful leaf patterns that feature bright green variegated with creamy splashes that glow pink with red-colored leaf undersides.
| GENERAL CARE: | Fairly high-maintenance |
| SOIL: | Well-draining, light soil with a pH ranging from 6 to 8 |
| LIGHT: | Partial or filtered sunlight |
| TEMP & HUMIDITY: | Temperatures between 65°F and 80°F and high humidity. (The bathroom window is an ideal location.) |
| WATERING: | Soil should always be kept moderately moist without becoming soggy or water-logged. In spring and summer, water when the top inch of soil dries, and a little less frequently in the winter. The triostar is sensitive to the minerals in well water and the chemicals in city water; only distilled or filtered water at room temperature. |
| FEEDING: | Feed with a 1/2 strength, water-soluble fertilizer every two to three weeks in spring and summer. |
| GROWTH: | Mature plants reach 2 to 3 feet in height |
| TOXICITY: | Non-toxic to pets and people |
17. African Violets (Streptocarpus sect. Saintpaulia)
African violets are a favorite of plant enthusiasts and houseplant collectors everywhere. They’re relatively easy to grow once you get the hang of it, and countless cultivars and hybrids are available, offering endless variety and beauty. While purple, pink, and white varieties are popular, red African violets are stunning, like the Visavi and Vega African violets.
| GENERAL CARE: | Low maintenance (especially in self-watering or bottom-watering containers) |
| SOIL: | Light, well-draining soil is best. Look for an African violet potting mix. |
| LIGHT: | Bright, filtered, or indirect sunlight |
| TEMP & HUMIDITY: | The ideal temperature is around 70°F with moderate to high humidity |
| WATERING: | They prefer moist but never soggy soil, as they are prone to root rot. Water from the bottom or stick watering can spout into the soil to water directly into the soil. Avoid splashing water on the leaves or allowing the plant to sit in standing water. |
| FEEDING: | Use a fertilizer formulated for African violets twice a month. |
| GROWTH: | Mature plants usually grow no larger than 16 inches across |
| TOXICITY: | Non-toxic to people and pets |
18. Amaryllis (Hippeastrum)
Hippeastrum is a genus containing about 90 species and more than 600 hybrids/cultivars of flowering bulbous plants. This genus is classified under the Amaryllidoideae plant family, and its members are often sold and referred to as Amaryllis flowers.
However, Amaryllis is a separate genus of flowers. In addition to Amaryllis, hippeastrums are also commonly called Christmas roses, fire lilies, and Barbados lilies. Despite the confusion around naming conventions, hippeastrum flowers are lovely to grow and can commonly be found in gorgeous forced bulb vases around the holidays.
| GENERAL CARE: | Easy to grow. Requires some know-how to force the bulbs. |
| SOIL: | Well-draining soil |
| LIGHT: | Partial shade |
| TEMP & HUMIDITY: | Never below 50°F and average humidity |
| WATERING: | Water when the top half of the soil is dry, keeping the soil constantly moist but never soggy. After the bloom is spent, reduce watering during dormancy and resume after a few months to encourage regrowth. |
| FEEDING: | Apply slow-release fertilizer at planting and bulb fertilizer once or twice a month during the growing season. |
| GROWTH: | Mature plants reach between 1 to 3 feet tall. |
| TOXICITY: | Toxic to pets and people |
19. Persian Cyclamen (Cyclamen persicum)
Persian cyclamen is a species of flowering perennial native to Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, and Southern Turkey, in addition to particular regions of Northern Africa and a few Greek islands. These lovely red houseplants start blooming in autumn and don’t stop until late spring. It has shooting star-shaped flowers and a rosette of pretty, heart-shaped leaves.
| GENERAL CARE: | Easy to grow in the right conditions (dormant plants look dead) |
| SOIL: | Well-draining, loamy, and acidic soil |
| LIGHT: | Bright, filtered, or indirect sunlight |
| TEMP & HUMIDITY: | Temperatures between 60°F and 70°F and high humidity |
| WATERING: | Keep soil evenly moist during the growing period (fall to spring) by watering when the top inch or two of the soil is dry. Water the soil directly, being careful not to wet leaves. Water infrequently during dormancy to prevent the soil from drying completely. |
| FEEDING: | During winter, fertilize with a diluted, low-nitrogen fertilizer twice a month. |
| GROWTH: | Mature plants reach 6 to 9 inches in height |
| TOXICITY: | Toxic to people and pets |
20. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Thought to bring good luck, Aglaonema (commonly called Chinese evergreens) is a group of perennial flowering plants widely recognized for their attractive foliage. The foliage and stalks of different varietals feature silver, white, or red washes and markings. Mature plants flower and produce red berries.
| GENERAL CARE: | Low maintenance |
| SOIL: | Well-draining, acidic soil mix |
| LIGHT: | Variegated varieties prefer bright, indirect, or filtered sunlight. Do not expose to direct sunlight. |
| TEMP & HUMIDITY: | Temperatures above 65°F (avoid cold drafts) and high humidity (mist often or add a humidifier) |
| WATERING: | Water the plant thoroughly and then allow the soil to dry out completely. A water probe can help determine when soil is dry through the seasons. |
| FEEDING: | Once at the beginning and once at the end of the growing season, feed with slow-release fertilizer pellets. |
| GROWTH: | Up to 2 feet tall and wide |
| TOXICITY: | Toxic to pets and people |
21. Air Plant (Tillandsia ionantha)
Tillandsia ionantha, or commonly known as the Air Plant, belongs to the bromeliad family and is native to Central America. They are epiphytic, meaning they draw moisture and nutrients from the air. The plant takes on a vibrant red hue when it’s about to bloom.
| GENERAL CARE: | Easy to grow in the right conditions |
| SOIL: | None (epiphytic) |
| LIGHT: | Bright, indirect light. A few feet away from a south or west-facing window protected by shear blinds would be ideal. |
| TEMP & HUMIDITY: | Warm; high humidity |
| WATERING: | Mist frequently; soak weekly |
| FEEDING: | Bromeliad fertilizer monthly |
| GROWTH: | Mature Height: 1-3 inches; Slow-growing |
| TOXICITY: | Non-toxic to pets |
22. Lipstick Plant (Aeschynanthus radicans)
The Lipstick Plant, native to the humid tropics of Southeast Asia, is known for its trailing vines and bright red tubular flowers, resembling a lipstick tube. Its shiny, dark green leaves further accentuate the flowers’ brilliance.
| GENERAL CARE: | Moderate |
| SOIL: | Well-draining potting mix |
| LIGHT: | Bright, indirect light. A few feet away from a south or west-facing window protected by shear blinds would be ideal. |
| TEMP & HUMIDITY: | Warm; high humidity |
| WATERING: | Keep evenly moist |
| FEEDING: | Balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during growth |
| GROWTH: | Mature Height: 2 feet; Moderate growth rate |
| TOXICITY: | Non-toxic to pets |
23. Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana)
Originating from Madagascar, Kalanchoe blossfeldiana is a popular succulent known for its vibrant flowers, which can come in red, orange, pink, or white. The thick, rich green leaves serve as a water reserve for these popular types of red houseplants.
| GENERAL CARE: | Easy to grow in the right conditions |
| SOIL: | Well-draining succulent mix |
| LIGHT: | Bright light throughout the day, where possible. A few feet away from a south-facing window would be ideal. |
| TEMP & HUMIDITY: | Warm; moderate humidity |
| WATERING: | Allow soil to dry between |
| FEEDING: | Succulent fertilizer every month during the growth |
| GROWTH: | Mature Height: 1-1.5 feet; Moderate growth rate |
| TOXICITY: | Toxic to pets |
24. Red Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum)
Sempervivum, commonly known as Hens and Chicks, hail from the mountain regions of Europe and Morocco. They form rosettes which multiply quickly. The “hen” is the central rosette, and the “chicks” are the offspring.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| GENERAL CARE: | Easy to grow in the right conditions |
| SOIL: | Sandy, well-draining |
| LIGHT: | Full sun to partial shade. South or west-facing aspects are ideal. |
| TEMP & HUMIDITY: | Cool to warm; low humidity |
| WATERING: | Allow soil to dry between |
| FEEDING: | Balanced liquid fertilizer every two months |
| GROWTH: | Mature Height: 3-6 inches; Moderate growth rate |
| TOXICITY: | Non-toxic to pets |
25. Firestorm (Sedum adolphii)
A native to Mexico, Sedum adolphii ‘Firestorm’ is a succulent with green leaves with red-tipped edges. With enough sunlight, the red intensifies, and these red houseplants make an attractive addition to any succulent collection.
| GENERAL CARE: | Easy to grow in the right conditions |
| SOIL: | Well-draining succulent mix |
| LIGHT: | Full sun throughout the majority of the day. A few feet away from a south-facing window would be ideal. |
| TEMP & HUMIDITY: | Warm; low to moderate humidity |
| WATERING: | Allow soil to dry between |
| FEEDING: | Succulent fertilizer every two months during growth |
| GROWTH: | Mature Height: 8-12 inches; Moderate growth rate |
| TOXICITY: | Non-toxic to pets |
Red Houseplants FAQs:
Why do plants turn red?
Red leaves most commonly occur due to a pigment known as anthocyanin. This pigment absorbs light into the cell structure of the foliage, causing various shades of the color red to occur.
What plants have red leaves?
Numerous plants showcase an array of vibrant red colors in their foliage. Our favorite red houseplants include Persian Cyclamen, Amaryllis, Red Begonia, Kalanchoe, Red Moon Cactus, Aglaonema, Hibiscus, Anthurium, and Red Congo Philodendron.
What is the meaning and symbolism of red plants?
Many red houseplants, especially those with red flowers, represent love, romance, passion, or fiery feelings like anger.
How much sunlight do red houseplants need?
As a general rule, most red house plants prefer bright, indirect light conditions though certain plants need greater exposure to direct light sources to thrive indoors truly.
Select the Best Red Houseplant for Your Home
Before choosing any red houseplants, consider the plant’s toxicity, if you have pets or small children in your home. Next, evaluate your home’s environmental conditions – average temperature, humidity, and sunlight – to ensure your red houseplant has what it needs to look its best.
Andrew is the Editorial Director at Petal Republic. He holds a BSc degree in Plant Sciences and has trained professionally at leading floristry schools in London and Paris. In amongst overseeing a global editorial team, Andrew's a passionate content creator around all things flowers, floral design, gardening, and houseplants.
Comments are closed.