Everyone wants something large – a large paying job, a large house, a large expensive vehicle, etc. But when it comes to large indoor plants, most people draw the line.
How will it fit?
Will it be so large that it takes over my entire space? These are the questions most homeowners ask themselves.
Where you put your indoor plants will determine the overall look of your living room no matter how large or small they are.
For example: as long as you place the large-leafed plant strategically, it shouldn’t look out of place. Alternatively, if you don’t get the placement of the tiny plant right, it won’t look even noticed.
Here are some of the most well-known indoor plants with biggest leaves.
What Indoor Plants Have Really Huge Leaves?
1. Monstera
Monstera houseplants are becoming increasingly popular due to their frequent representation on home décor websites and on social media platforms.
However, there is little research and knowledge pertaining to this group of large houseplants.
This family of plants is relatively unknown to many homeowners, and they lack basic information and skills needed to care for and identify the “true” Monstera.
Monstera deliciosa is the most well-known species and is sold in many grocery and floral stores by the name monstera.
Monstera deliciosa is distinguished by its oversized perforated leaves that provide a tropical feel to any interior space.
It is a good idea to learn additional information about the type of monstera you enjoy most before purchase.
One thing is for certain, most monstera houseplants can grow 12-feet tall and their leaves can reach up to four-feet long.
And sadly, Monstera deliciosa is mildly toxic to humans and furry pets. When ingested, it causes temporary tummy troubles, and can irritate the skin around the mouth.
2. Fiddle Leaf Figs
Prior to Monstera, Fiddle Leaf Figs were the favorite choice of plant bloggers.
With their fantastic large waxy, fiddle-shaped leaves, they look beautiful in that unoccupied corner of your living room.
You can cut the leaves to your desired size and shape.
However, fiddle figs require somewhat more attention than most indoor plants.
First of all, best to put the plant next to an east-facing window since it does not like direct sunlight.
You will also want to check the watering so that it always has moisture and is never soaked. Thirdly, fiddle figs will not do well if moved around often.
As with Monstera, the leaves of fiddle fig trees are toxic to humans and pets, and medical assistance should be sought if ingested.
3. Tropic Snow Dumb Cane
The Tropic Snow Dumb Cane is the largest variety of dumb canes.
This is an indoor variety that has the potential to reach 10 ft in height.
Its wide, textured variegated leaves are sought after by homeowners looking to create a tropical indoor aesthetic.
Lastly, in addition to being visually appealing, tropic snow dumb canes are relatively easy to maintain.
Tropic snow dumb canes can handle low-light conditions while requiring minimal water inputs. Simply water for moisture only once per week, when the foliage feels dry.
Given favorable conditions, tropic snow dumb cane can grow tall.
These plants are best suited for homes with a tall ceiling, and not potential obstructions above such as light fixtures or other furniture items.
Lastly, the downside – these types of plants are mildly toxic to cats, dogs and humans. The reason why it’s mildly toxic is due to skin rash, irritation, and stomach upsets when ingested.
4. Calathea orbifolia
Calathea orbifolia is a prayer plant that has large, round leaves that are unique to this species.
This plant is best suited for humid conditions which could be too high maintenance for a few home owners who don’t have the right conditions or time to maintain the humidity a Calathea requires.
Leaves can reach up to 6ft long when full grown.
In a good environment, these plants should be tended to in moist but unsaturated soil, with protection from harsh direct light.
It is also suggested to water weekly and fertilize quarterly to promote lush green foliage.
Great news – unlike other large houseplants, calathea is non-toxic to pets and humans alike.
5. Rubber Plant
The Rubber Plant has large tapering leaves of dark shade, but none that are as huge like some plants have.
It grows in a variety of different species with colorful foliage. Most of the species will grow up to 10 feet.
Rubber plants are perhaps the most beginner friendly indoor plant to have with larger leaves.
You can buy a little tree without spending too much money.
Also, it grows pretty quickly, gaining more than a foot every growing connection.
Remove the suckers the plant produces and separate them into 5 inch pots to avoid entangling roots and rapid root rot.
Rubber doesn’t have toxicity, it has sticky sap that stains garments.
6. Banana Plants
Banana plants have beautiful dark green leaves that give a tropical feel. Most of the varieties of banana plants grow edible fruits.
It makes sense to consider checking with your supplier to make sure they sell edible varieties, for your sake and theirs.
Regardless of which banana plant you choose, they will be a wonderful addition to your indoor space.
Banana plants need plenty of light, so you will want to grow them near windows.
If light does not come from the sun, you can use grow lights or other artificial light uses.
IMPORTANT NOTE – Make sure you keep the soil moist, but do not allow it to stay soggy. Also be careful to not allow your banana plants to get below 55oF in temperature.
7. Bird of Paradise
The Bird of Paradise is named such because its large foliage resembles the feathers of a bird in flight.
The leaves grow in a self-leading mannerism-this means that it will grow in layers from one central stalk.
A mature bird of paradise is seven feet tall and four feet wide. Although it is a stunning-looking plant, it is poisonous to cats and dogs.
8. Majesty Palm
As its name signifies, this houseplant has a regal appearance.
It has multiple stems topped with long green fronds, and it can grow up to ten feet tall at maturity.
The downside is this houseplant takes a lot of upkeep.
Finding the perfect balance of light, fertilizer, and temperature takes a lot.
The Majesty Palms is best left to serious growers and people that actually have a green thumb.
On the plus side – Majesty plants are non-toxic for humans and pets.
9. African Mask Plant
The African Mask Plant is a beautiful indoor plant with large, deep green arrowhead-shaped leaves, and white veins.
The foliage can take on a deep purple hue on the underside of the leaves.
Since the African Mask Plant is parasitic to Africa, it prefers areas that are humid, sunny, and with well-draining soil.
You should also water this plant at least once a week.
However, these types of plants are toxic to cats and dogs in humans if ingested.
10. Elephant Ear Plant
Most people generally wait until the Elephant Ear Plants are fully grown to take them indoors, but they won’t look out of place inside your home either.
Depending on the species you have, however, it could grow upwards of three feet long.
You don’t need to water this plant as often as you think.
Instead, only water when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Watering too much can make the soil soggy, and while not the worst thing for the growth rate, the sogginess can cause root rot.
Also, don’t place this plant in direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can burn a plant’s leaves. So put it where it will get filtered light from a south facing window.
The Elephant Ear Plant is toxic if ingested by pets or humans so keep an eye on your kids, cats, and dogs when you grow it indoors.
11. Sansevieria Plant
The sansevieria plant has big, dark green leaves.
Sansevieria grows in low light conditions and does not demand much care, so it is the ideal house plant for many people.
In fact, the most common issue with growing sansevieria is root rot from an excess of watering.
When watering, just be sure not to soak the soil.
You should also be sure to not put the plant in direct sunlight or its leaves will wilt.
12. Ruffled Fan Palm
Ruffled Fan Palm is a unique species.
It has pleated foliage, which looks like a handheld fan.
Even though this plant is rare, it is easy to grow and requires little maintenance.
It should be in a location that gets partial sun.
If you have it close to a window, please put a sunlight filter there so it does not burn the leaves. Also, this plant is non-toxic to pets.
13. Dracaena marginata
The Dracaena family contains a vast number of variants, but the Dracaena marginata can be considered the most popular.
Under the right conditions, this can grow to 8ft, has many spiky leaves that will add to the dynamic of your indoor garden.
All this combined with the plants long, thin stem makes this large houseplant a great candidate for a statement piece.
Caring for Your Indoor Plants
It is not worth it to grow indoor plants if you forget about them. You waste your time and resources, and miss out on the benefit of growing houseplants.
Here are a few helpful ways to care for your indoor plants with large leafs.
Watering
To prevent your plant from experiencing yellow leaves and dying, you need to water appropriately according to the recommendations.
When you water, be sure you are using the correct amount of water.
Too much water will saturate the soil, slow growth, and may cause root rot.
Avoid polishing leaves
Some people put leaf shine on their plants to get them shiny again but that’s not necessary and it can hurt your plants.
Just wipe the leaves with a damp cloth. If you’ve got hardened debris on the leaves, use soapy water. If you have grease stains on the leaves, use vinegar.
Wrapping Up
Larger plants bring color and liveliness to your indoor space.
Larger plants are also more efficient than smaller leaves because they require fewer pieces to fill your space.
Additionally, larger plants garner more attention because their size enables them to standout from your other decorations.
Nonetheless, some houseplants have very particular needs that people find difficult to provide. Additionally, some houseplants are toxic to animals and/or humans.
Lastly, be sure to get as much information on a plant as you can before brining it home!