Hi Sibe,

I have just moved into a new flat and am looking to get some house plants. The flat is small but quite light. I would like to get a big plant for the living room and some smaller ones for the kitchen and bedroom. What could you recommend that looks pretty but doesn't take too much looking after!

I look forward to hearing from you,

Sam.

Our Gardening Expert replies:

Hi Sam,

Most houseplants that are trouble free and long-lasting tend to be those that are not grown specifically for their flowers - but by pretty I assume you are looking for flowering houseplants.

Generally, flowering plants do require higher light levels and many require some direct sunlight for part of the day.

Here are a few suggestions:

Firstly, begonias. The easiest of these is probably Begonia semperflorens - this is the begonia that is often used in summer bedding displays outside. These do very well indoors and will flower for long periods from early until late in the year. They need re-potting every spring and keeping moist throughout the active growing season and slightly dryer in winter. They will do fine without direct sunlight, though a little during the winter months will keep them looking good.

For your darkest window I would choose Streptocarpus. These make superb displays from spring until late autumn. There are many hybrids to choose from and my favourite is one with white flowers with deep purple veins running down the flower tube.

One for a sunnier spot is Hoya carnosa. This is a climber which can be trained around wires in a pot or even in an indoors hanging basket. The flowers are glossy, white star shaped with coloured centres and they have a delightful scent.

As for your larger plant for the living room, why not try a citrus? Citrus sinensis (orange) or Citrus limon (lemon) do very well indoors through the winter but should be stood outdoors in full sun during the summer. Many garden books will tell you that these need a sunny spot even when indoors but I've kept one right next to a north facing patio window for a couple of years and it does very well with many miniature oranges making a good display. You need to be careful with watering - always allow the surface of the compost to dry before watering from below.

There's nothing like success with houseplants to breed further interest - so make sure you have plenty of space on those window sills!

All the best,

Sibe.

For more information on how you can use plants to brighten up your home see, Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum), Tropical Trees and Adding Colour to a Balcony.