The Best Tall Houseplants to Have in your Home

In this article, I will be discussing the best tall houseplants to have in your home. When you think about houseplants, you think of small plants in groups around the windowsill or displayed on top of a desk to keep you company.

I remember when I was little, they use to have Swiss cheese plants in every house, after all, it was the 1970s. They are tall plants that use to occupy a corner of a room, but guess what tall plants are back in fashion. We want a plant or plants that will make a bold statement in the home that can occupy vacant areas.

This year for your houseplants you need to think big, forget about those cute, small ones.

As there are many tall houseplants to choose, which one do I recommend to grow in your home?

Find out in this article, where you can have these stunning houseplant gracing your home:

ACACIA ARMATA (Kangaroo Thorn)

This is a shrubby houseplant that grows up to 3m in height that has narrow, oblong green leaves and branches covered in spikes. In April, Mimosa-like blossoms appear in clusters above the upper leaves. Whilst the plant is young it can be kept in 20cm diameter pots for some time, but eventually, it will need to be potted on to a small tube full of houseplant compost.

The plant prefers to be grown in a bright, location that is well-ventilated and is relatively cold (less than 20 degree Celsius). Like a lot of houseplants, it needs watering moderately in summer but only enough in winter to keep the compost from getting too dry.

ACACIA DEALBATA (Mimosa)

This is the well-known mimosa often used by florists. Whilst young it makes an excellent foliage plant but will flower well once the plant reaches a level of maturity. This normally occurs when the plant is well established in tubs.

Normally grows up to 1.5m or more in height but this depends on pot size. Restricting pot size will retard growth and is the best way if you do not have the space to grow it in. To help to restrict size further you will need to cut plants back in spring, but mature plants should only be cut back after it has finished flowering.

The small leaflets the plant produces tend to fold up as the sun disappears on the horizon.

It prefers to be grown in a cool, bright and airy location, where it can be stood outdoors in summer if you wish.

After many years the plant will be too big and will need plenty of room to grow in. Best to use in porches, conservatories or bright, room corners. Grow it in containers full of houseplant compost, where you need to water freely from spring to early autumn, sparingly in winter.

ACACIA PODALYRIIFOLIA (Pearl Acacia)

This 1.5m tall houseplant produces silvery-grey to almost white leaves that have a downy texture. The young shoots are covered with thick white down and in winter golden-yellow flowers appear on mature plants.

You grow in much the same way as A. dealbata. The only difference is that the leaves may take on a blue tint in winter, which is quite normal.

ARAUCARIA HETEROPHYLLA (Norfolk Island Pine)

This is a vertical fir with needle-like, frond-like branches, where it can grow up to 2m in height. It prefers to be grown in a small container initially in a cool, well-ventilated area of the house, eventually, as it gets bigger it will need to be rehoused into a much larger container. It does best on a north-facing window, away from any direct sunshine.

You will have to mist occasionally to maintain the humidity or the leaves may be lost. It is best to delay repotting as much as possible to stop the growth romping away. If it gets too large, you can cut back, but then the appearance will be spoilt for a long time.

You can place it outdoors in summer, where an occasional feed will not go amiss. To water, you must do so moderately in summer and sparingly in winter.

ASPARAGUS SETACEUS (Asparagus Fern)

We are all familiar with the outdoor asparagus that give s us tender shoots to eat in spring. This relative has very fine needle-like foliage and a spreading habit. It can reach a height of 3m when grown on a windowsill in a north-facing location.

A cool position out of direct sunlight is advised. It is an easy plant to grow, where occasionally a long climbing stem is produced that can be cut off is space is a premium. All you need to do is water moderately throughout the year, apart from winter when you only need to water sparingly.

Feed occasionally and if any browning of the leaves occurs then the growing conditions are too dry in humidity and at the roots. You need to add water to prevent this from happening.

AUCUBA JAPONICA (Spotted Laurel)

This is familiar as an outdoor plant as it is hardy, but you can grow it as an indoor plant in the coolest and draughtiest part of the house.

It has glossy, oval-shaped leaves of rich here that are spotted golden yellow, where in a large container full of multipurpose compost it can grow up to 2m in height.

You can grow them in spacious hallways or in porches but it must be cool.

If the plants get too large you can prune back in spring. It is not a hungry plant, so it is best to avoid feeding too generous, as this will keep growth in check. If the plant gets too big for indoors, then you can move it outdoor permanently in a container. Never allow the plant to dry out completely, as its leaves will deteriorate. Water more freely in summer.

BOUGAINVILLEA GLABRA (Paper Flower)

This 2.4m tall, shrubby climber has small, oval, brightly-coloured leaves. It needs to be trained on wires against a wall or up bamboo canes. Grow it in a 20cm diameter pots, where the plant can be allowed to grow bushier by frequent pruning.

It needs to be placed in a cool, well-ventilated and bright location, where it can be grown as a wall shrub in a conservatory or porch. In winter you need to keep the compost on the dry side, but from March onwards you need to start watering more, increasingly so in summer. During the growing season feed regularly.

CISSUS DISCOLOR (Rex Begonia Vine)

This is a climber that grows up to 6m in height that has extremely beautifully coloured and variegated leaves, It is a difficult plant to have in the average home, as it requires moderate warm and humidity in good light, where the colourful leaves can be admired, but away from direct sunlight. When cold the leaves will drop.

It is best to display the plant in a hanging basket where it can be treated more like a trailer rather than a climber. You will need to place the hanging basket in a high spot. From late spring to early summer, you will need to feed at regular intervals.

The plant needs to be kept moist at all time, but keep drier in winter, especially if it becomes cool. Misting frequently in summer is advised.

CISSUS ANTARCTICA (Kangaroo Vine)

This is a shrubby climber that grows up to 6m in height, which has shiny, spear-shaped leaves with toothed edges. Grow this houseplant up bamboos canes or against a tall wall in a cool, airy, location in good light. Ideal for stairwells or hallways that have plenty of height. Although the plants like cool, airy places, severe cold will cause the plant to deteriorate.

If you want to restrict the height of the plant, you can cut back and by keeping the plant in its original pot as much as possible to slow development. If you do this, do not neglect to feed as the plant will suffer without it. Water well in summer, sparingly in winter.

CYANOTIS KEWENSIS (Teddy Bear Plant)

This is an unusual trailer that can be grown as a short 2m tall climber if it is trained right.

The plant itself is quite attractive with red-brown stems, woolly coated, small, oval leaves that are olive-green above and purple underneath. On top of these leaves, attractive magenta flowers appear.

Grow it as an edging plant in a hanging basket full of houseplant compost. The centre can be filled with smaller houseplants. Grow it in a cool, but not chilly location that gets enough air. It needs good light in winter but some shade in summer.

Avoid temperature fluctuations as leaves will start to drop. You need to water moderately in summer, less so in winter. Try to keep watering even, otherwise, leaves can drop and stem rots if you over water.

CYTISUS CANARIENSIS (Canary Island Broom)

This is actually a member of the legume (pea) family that produces masses of golden yellow pea-like, fragrant flowers all the way from winter to summer.

Grow this 1.8m tall plant in containers full of houseplant compost in a bright, well-ventilated areas, but away from direct sunshine. This evergreen plant will make a fine specimen in a cool conservatory, where the fragrance may be fully appreciated.

Feed moderately whilst growing, otherwise overfeeding causes lots of leaves but very few flowers. After flowering is completed it is recommended to prune to keep the plant in check. Keep the compost moist in summer nut drier at the rest of the year.

DIPLADENIA SPLENDENS/ MANDEVILLA SPLENDENS (Shining Mandevilla)

This is an attractive, vigorous climber that grows up to 4.5m in height, with lustrous, spear-shaped green leaves. Above these leaves rose-pink, petunia-like flowers appear in summer to autumn. Keep the plants in 18cm diameter pots, where it can be cut back after flowering to keep it compact. The plant likes warm, bright conditions, out of direct sunlight, where it is allowed to reach for the sky.

Avoid chilly places and overfeeding that promotes leaves instead of flowers. Water plenty in summer, sparingly in winter, whilst misting with tepid water occasionally in summer.

DIZYGOTHECA ELEGANTISSIMA (Spider Aralia)

This 1.5m tall houseplant has wiry stems carrying red-green, long, slender, finger-like leaves that will grace any home. Grow this plant in adequate warmth and reasonable humidity. It will need a large container full of houseplant compost in order to reach a man’s height, but then its leaves will lose some of their charm.

The plant will not grow vigorously unless the temperature and humidity is maintained. If it gets chilly and exposed to draughts, the lower leaves may fall. If the plant is cut back then new shoots will form once the warmth is restored back. Tall plants can also be cut back to maintain a compact structure but then it would need warmth to encourage new growth.

You will need to keep the plant in good light in winter but in slight shade in summer, where an occasional feed will do the plant no harm. Water very well in summer, along with regular misting, but in winter reduce to watering once in a while.

DRACAENA DEREMENSIS

This plant has a number of cultivars that have broad, pointed strap-like, palm-like leaves that are striped and variegated. The leaves themselves can grow up to 45cm in length, whilst the plant can reach heights of 1.2m. It is not an easy plant to look after, as leaves will be lost if temperatures fluctuate too much, and it is exposed to a chill or very dry air.

It must be grown in moderate warmth and moderate humidity. Grow it in a container full of houseplant compost, where little feeding is required until the plant has reached its final pot.

You need to keep the compost moist at all times, but waterlogging leads to root rot and leaf falling.

For a great alternative grow D. fragrans ‘Massangeana’ that has leaves that look like ornamental maize, but instead has colourful stripes and variegation. If the plant is given a large enough container and is allowed to mature, fragrant yellow flowers are produced that are followed by reddish berries.

ENSETE VENTRICOSUM (Abyssinian Banana)

This is an exotic looking houseplant that can also be grown outdoors and then brought in for winter. It has enormous green banana-like leaves, where it is properly the largest leaves of all houseplants. The best way to grow this plant is via seeds, which must be fresh and sown in the maximum warmth of summer.

Once germinated, plants grow very quickly in warm conditions. You need to keep it in a small container in its first year and overwinter.

In winter keep the plant warm, but not above 21 degree Celsius and water enough to prevent the compost from drying out. If the plant is exposed to any cold, the leaves will turn brown, shrivel and then drop-off. The plant will not die of it is watered sparingly. In the second year, move it to a 25cm diameter container, where it will be at its best.

After that, you will need to start again from seeds. Grow it in a warm area in good light, where it needs a lot of space to display its impressive leaves. Water generously during summer, enough in winter to keep from the compost from drying out. Reduce watering if the conditions get cooler.

EPIPREMNUM AUREUM (Devil’s Leg)

This is a tall climber that can grow up to 1.8m or more. It has broad, spear-shaped leaves and a number of varieties exist that have different coloured markings. For example ‘Marble Queen’, ‘Golden Queen’ and ‘Tricolor’ that has red, yellow and green colouring.

It is best to train the plant using a stout, bamboo canes covered with sphagnum moss (commonly called moss sticks), making sure that it is secured with pieces of wire. It is best to keep the moss moist by spraying it with water. If you bought a plant already with large leaves then it has been grown from cuttings from mature plants, the leaves will be small as they grow until once more it has reached maturity, where the large leaves form once more.

If the plant gets too large then you can cut back in June. This houseplant likes to be grown in moderate warmth and humidity in good light, but away from direct sunlight. Whilst the plant is young it will require little space but as it matures it can grow up to a man’s height, producing 30cm long, heart-shaped leaves. Watering is very important, generously in summer but just keeping the compost wet in winter.

EUCALYPTUS CITRIODORA (Lemon Scented Gum)

This 1.5m tall shrub has brightly coloured, spear-shaped, green leaves that emit a pleasant lemon scent when the leaves are crushed. Any young seedlings you buy can be rehoused into 13cm pot and then they can be kept in the same container for some time.

It can survive temperatures close to zero degrees Celsius if it is kept on the dry side. The leaves may turn red and dries, but once warmth returns with adequate water the plant will soon look like new.

The houseplant prefers to be grown in cool to warm temperatures in moderate humidity in good light to slight shade. Keep potting on as the plant develops in houseplant compost, where little feeding is required. Water moderately in summer, misting occasionally but in winter if the temperature drops, reduce watering to the bare minimum.

Alternatives include E. globulus (Tasmanian Blue Gum) that produces blue-green, roundish leaves that emits the familiar eucalyptus scent when the plant is brushed. The old plants are less attractive than young leaves. You can achieve new growth by cutting old plants hard, but it will still reach heights up to 1.8m.

E.gunnii (Cider Gum) which is a tall shrub that has roundish leaves that cling to stems coloured bluish-silvery grey. A tall plant growing up to 1.8m in height will need a large container to grow this plant in. The major problem with this plant is that the green leaves become less attractive as the shrub gets bigger.

X FATSHEDERA LIZEI (Tree Ivy)

This 2.4m tall houseplant is a cross between a Hedera and a Fatsia. It has five-lobed, glossy, cream variegated or plain green leaves, where it can be trained as a climber or a bush.

This is a very easy plant to grow, all you need is a cool and shady location. Any sunlight exposure will cause it to wilt. You can keep it short and train it up canes as a climber by cutting back from time to time, which will increase its bushiness. Watering is simple, generously in summer, sparingly on winter.

FATSIA JAPONICA (False Castor Oil Plant)

This is familiar as an outdoor plant, where glossy, large green, palm-like leaves that give the appearance of the tropics. The leaves can be cream and variegated, where it can grow to over 2.4m in height and will, therefore, need a very large container of multipurpose compost to grow in.

The variegated form tends to be slow-growing and tenderer in nature. It is a very easy plant to look after. Slow growing at first but will tend to speed up as it matures. You can keep it in a small pot for some years before potting on to larger pots. The plant prefers to be grown in cold and draughty conditions, places like a conservatory is ideal. To keep from potting on regularly, you need to feed the plant moderately and not excessively.

FICUS BENGHALENSIS (Banyan Tree)

When young this plant resemble the ‘Rubber Plant’ that use to grace many a home. It grows up to 1.2m in height and you will need to pot it on as it becomes root bound in each pot. It is an easy plant to look after, whilst young it makes an attractive foliage plant. In its natural habitat, the species is notorious for reaching giant sizes and for spreading quickly. Sending down enormous aerial roots which readily takes in the ground.

To prevent a triffid from being created in your home, you need to slow down the rapid growth. This can be achieved by keeping the pot size to the minimum and feeding sparingly.

In a cool place, growth is slow, in warmth, growth is rapid. So it is best to grow it in as much shade as possible but not too shady.

Water generously warm temperatures, sparingly in winter and in cool temperatures.

FICUS BENJAMINA (Weeping Fig)

This is a graceful, tree-like houseplant with drooping, slender, pointed leaves that are borne on long, arching stems.

It is a vigorous grower but has a less formal appearance than other species found in this family. It needs space to grow in and display its beauty. Grow it in a warm, moderate humid area with no draughts and out of direct sunlight, but not into too much shade.

You need to water freely and then allow the compost to almost dry before the next watering. Moisture needs to be avoided in winter, which could cause harm to the plant. A misting with tepid water, occasionally in the summer months will not go amiss. No need to feed unless the plant has been placed in their final pots.

Great alternatives include. F. elastica (India Rubber Plant) that produces large, glossy, oval green leaves. The young leaves and ribs tend to be red and it is surrounded by a red-paper sheath. Grows up to 1.2m in height and is not a difficult plant to grow, where variegated forms are available such as ‘Black Prince’, ‘Doescheri’ and ‘Tricolor’ but they need extra care.

If the plant is exposed to cool temperatures the lower leaves may drop. You can cut back the plant and this will encourage it to send up new shoots from the base if it is kept warm and humid. New shoots can also be produced if the stems are frequently sprayed with a foliar feed containing a rooting hormone.

Ficus lyrata (Fiddle Back Fig) produces large violin-shaped, glossy green leaves that have the same habit as a rubber plant, but is shorter and rarely branches from the base. This plant grows up to 1.2m in height, where the best appearance can be observed if it is kept out of cool and draughty conditions.

FICUS PUMILA (Creeping Fig)

This is a 1.2m tall trailer or climber that has wiry stems full of green, heart-shaped leaves that are deeply lobed. You can either grow it in a hanging basket where it can be allowed to trail down, or you can grow it up bamboo canes.

It is generally easy to care for, just do not give it a large container. If it is given this, it may become quite rampant or it will climb all over the place. Grow it in cold parts of the home, where the light is poor. You must prevent it from becoming waterlogged, which can deteriorate the plant very quickly. Do not give too much fertilizers, as this will encourage excessive and rapid growth.

GREVILLEA ROBUSTA (Australian Silky Oak)

This 1.5m tall plant has graceful fern-like mid-green leaves, where it is best grown in ericaceous compost. The plant can be cut back when it becomes too large, as this will encourage the plant to bush out. It prefers to be grown in a cool, airy, bright position or in slight shade.

Do not grow it in a stuffy, warm room, as the plant does not do well. If you look after it right it will grow to a handsome proportion. Avoid very chilly air, as this will cause the leaves to drop. You need to water generously in summer, sparingly in winter with rainwater, especially if you live in a hard water area.

GYNURA PROCUMBENS (Purple Passion Vine)

This 1.2m tall plant had slender trailing or climbing stems that have narrow, jagged toothed, vivid coloured leaves. This is an easy plant to grow, as long as it grown in a 13cm diameter pot in a warm, bright and airy location in slight shade.

The stems tend to twine and can reach great heights, where you need to feed moderately when in active growth. Water generously in summer but very slightly in winter, especially if the temperature drops.

HEDERA CANARIENSIS (Canary Island Ivy)

This is a 6m tall, vigorous climber that has ivy-shaped, cream and green leaves. It needs strong support in order to hold the large plant up. If you want to keep it in check, because room is a premium, then this plant can be pruned dramatically. It is a hardy plant in many areas but it can take the warm temperatures well, which tends to accelerate growth. Best to grow in halls, foyers and hallways in good light or some shade.

Avoid massive temperature changes as this will cause the plant to drop leaves. Water generously in summer, sparingly in winter. Feed moderately from late spring to the end of summer.

The best variety and alternative to grow is Hedera helix (Ivy) that can grow over 6m in height. Grow it in cold, draught and poorly lit areas where some varieties will climb and others will trail. Some will do both. It is best not to allow climbing types to touch the wall, as this will cause markings to form. Very easy to grow, as long as you do not overfeed and water to keep the compost from getting too dry.

Hot and dry conditions can cause the plant to deteriorate.

HIBISCUS ROSA-SINENSIS (Chinese Rose)

This 1.8m tall, bushy shrub has glossy, green leaves and from summer to autumn, large flowers appear. The flowers do not last a long time, but if the plant is well looked after, it will reward you with plenty of flower buds to add colour to your day.

Grow it in a warm, moderately humid position, out of direct sunlight and away from draughts. If the temperature is too low the buds and leaves will fall. It may die but if it survives it will look scruffy.

If this happens, cut back as this will ensure new growth will appear once it is returned back to warmth. Water in summer freely and sparingly in winter, mist frequently in summer but make sure water is kept of all buds and petals. Feed the plant while the buds are forming.

HOYA CARNOSA (Wax Plant)

This is a 6m tall climber that has glossy, fleshy, spear-shaped leaves that can be variegated. In spring to autumn, star-shaped, waxy, large white flower with red-purplish eyes appear. It is very easy to grow, as it is hardy in mild areas outdoors.

It survives considerable cold conditions and can be grown in cold, draughty location, such as stairwells, halls and foyers, where it can tolerate some shade. If it is placed in a large pot it can reach the ceiling, where it can be trained up tall bamboo canes

The one major drawback is that it tends to send out long leafless stems that look unattractive before the leaves and flowers form on them. This nothing to worry about as this is normal and they can be hidden by bending the stems behind existing growth.

Water generously in summer, sparingly in winter, when the temperature drops. If the temperature is way down then it is best to keep the compost almost dry.

Feed once in a while during the growing season.

IPOMOEA TRICOLOR (Morning Glory)

This is a popular annual climber that grows up to 2.4m in height. It has attractive leaves and large flowers that are blue or red. Soak seeds in warm water overnight before sowing into 7cm diameter pots of seed and cutting compost.

Once it has grown to a good enough height, you can pot up to an 18cm pots full of multipurpose compost. You will need to provide canes so that the plant can twine up them. If you want to keep it from growing too tall, you can pinch out the growing tip. This will encourage it to branch out and produce more flowers.

To encourage more flower production, you need to remove any seed capsules as soon as they appear. At the end of the growing season discard and start once again in spring.

Grow it in a warm, moderately humid, bright window, where the flowers can be trained to give a wonderful display. Keep the compost moist at all times, avoiding overwatering as this will cause the leaves to turn yellow and the flower buds to drop.

JASMINUM POLYANTHUM (Pink Jasmine)

This is a vigorous climber that is often bought trained over a wire hoop. It is a very quick grower and hoop-trained plants will soon need canes to grow up. It produces pink-budded, white, tubular, highly scented flowers that appear in winter and spring, where it can grow up to 3m in height.

You can keep the plant compact by pruning back after flowering. The plants can also be trained to grow up tripods. Overfeeding and potting on too frequently will result in leafy growth and fewer flowers. You will need to propagate from time to time via cuttings so that old plants can be replaced.

Grow it in a cool and bright spot in winter and in shade in summer, where the lovely scent can be enjoyed.    The compost that it is grown in must be moist at all times.

MONSTERA DELICIOSA (SWISS CHEESE PLANT)

This once hugely popular houseplant has huge glossy, heavily lobed or slashed green leaves on young plants. On mature leaves, holes form and hence its common name.

This plant can grow up to 3m in height, but oddly it does best if grown in pots that are far too small for it. Plants need careful support, ideal with bamboo canes covered with sphagnum moss. As the plant grows, the aerial roots may descend downward and enter the container it is grown in.

In mature plants, orange-like flowers appear that are followed by elongated pineapple-like fruits. Do not eat them, although edible, as they tend to taste unpleasant.

Grow them in warm conditions in good light or slight shade. It will even survive cool winter conditions if they are watered sparingly. Grow it in a corner of the room where the great structure can be admired. Water well in summer and sparingly in cool, winter conditions. You can cut back tall and large plants in spring.

NERIUM OLEANDER (Oleander or Rose Bay)

This is a shrub that grows up to 1.8m in height that produces evergreen, spear-shaped, glossy leaves. On top of these masses of rose-pink, red, or white, single or double flowers appear in summer to autumn. Remove shoots that appear at the base of the flower to prevent it from straggling all over the pace.

Grow it in an airy, bright, or slightly shady spot in a cool place. Size can be controlled by cutting back after flowering. You need to water very generously in summer, and just enough in winter, especially true if the roots are cool. When the flowering buds are forming you can feed the plant. Be aware all parts of the plant are poisonous.

PASSIFLORA CAERULEA (Passion Flower)

This is a very tall, vigorous climber that can grow up to 9m in height. It produces very attractive blue and white flowers that cover the plant. Plants that are bought will need space to grow in such as a conservatory wall or porch, up some tall canes. Grow it in a very bright, airy, position.

To prevent the plant from growing too large, you will need to keep it in a small container as long as possible, do not feed too generously as this will increase in leave production in the place of flowers.

After flowering, large golden-yellow egg-shaped fruits are produced. The plants can be pruned back drastically after flowering. You need to water generously in summer, sparingly in winter.

PEPEROMIA GRISEOARGENTE (Ivy or Silver Leaf Peperomia)

This 1.5m tall plant has large, heart-shaped, slightly crinkly leaves with a silvery sheen. The leaves do not look like ivy, despite its common name. Grow it in a warm, moderately humid area in slight shade, where it should be at its best.

The only problem is the plant is very prone to attacks of mould and rot in winter, especially so if the temperature is low and the humidity is high. You must stop the roots from being exposed to the cold for a long period of time.

Feed moderately when the plant is actively growing. You must keep the compost moist but at the same time not to overwater, as this can cause the roots to rot. The air needs to be moderately humid in summer, but drier in winter as this will prevent mould growth.

PEPEROMIA SCANDENS ‘Variegata’ (Cupid Peperomia)

This trailer can grow up to 1.2m in height but it can be trained to be a climber. The usual variety has green-cream, spear-shaped leaves and pink-green stems, which can be trained upwards on bamboo canes. This species can be temperamental, especially so when the plant is young, as it needs the temperature and other growing conditions to be fairly steady. Any form of draught and the leaves will drop off.

Grow it in a moderate warmth and humidity in slight shade. The mature plants are easy to manage and will put up with more temperature fluctuations. The compost must not be allowed to dry out completely but at the same time, it must not be overwatered. Feed once in a while in summer.

PERSEA (Avocado Pear)

This is a tall, up to 1.5m in height, shrubby plant with large, dark evergreen, glossy leaves. It is very easy to look after as long as you keep potting on to a minimum to discourage excessive development and excessive size.

For the same reason, you should feed a little in the summer months. Plant in a large container full of houseplant compost, where it is quite happy in any frost-free location in good light. It is a plant that can take considerable neglect.

The usual method to growing them is fro, the stones after the pears have been eaten. The stones will germinate if immersed in a bowl full of moist compost in a warm place, with half the seed buried and the other half exposed to the air. It will take time to germinate and you will see nothing for a while, but eventually, you will see a new shoot sprout.

Water generously in summer, but sparingly in winter, especially if it is cold.

PHILODENDRON BIPINNATIFIDUM (Tree Philodendron)

This 1.2m plant has an erect nature with a palm-like habit with very large, lobed, green leaves. It needs moderate warmth and humidity in good light, away from direct sunshine. It will require a large area to grow in, where the large leaves can be displayed.

This plant cannot be propagated by division, only from seed which cannot be done practically in the home. It must never be allowed to dry out completely, even in winter. Water well in summer and mist frequently at the same time.

An alternative is P. selloum (Lace Tree Philodendron), which is similar to P. bipinnatifolium in the younger state but as it matures it forms thicker stems and wavy, undulating leaf edges. Grow in a similar way you would grow Tree Philodendron.

PHILODENDRON DOMESTICUM (Elephant’s Ear)

This climber that grows up to 1.8m in height has shiny, spear-shaped leaves borne on long stalks. It does not look anything like an elephant’s ears.

To train climbing philodendrons you need to use a moss stick, ensuring that the moss is moist by spraying with water. The aerial roots that are produced penetrated the given support and allow moisture to be absorbed. Feeding can be carried out by adding liquid foliar feed to the sprayer. Prefers to be grown in moderate humidity in good light, but away from direct sunlight.

Other varieties to look for are P. erubescens (Arrowhead or Blushing Philodendron), which is a vigorous climber that grows up to 1.5m in height. It produces arrow-shaped leaves, pinkish whilst young, turning brown-green when it matures, ‘Burgundy; has copper-red leaves, More tolerant of drier conditions then P. domestic. You need to have extra humidity to help it reach an appreciate size.

PHILODENDRON MELANOCHRYSUM (Velour Philodendron)

This is a 1.5m climber that has velvety, spear-shaped leaves that are pinkish below and dark green with golden hues above. One word of warning the leaves of this species naturally hangs, do not worry as there is nothing wrong with the plant. Do not mistake it for wilting or overwatering. Grow it in a similar way you would P. dosmesticum.

PHILODENDRON SCANDENS (Heart Leaf)

This popular trailer or climber has dark green, pointed, heart-shaped leaves and grows up to 1.8m in height. It is best to train it up as you would P. dosmesticum, but the plant will grow more vigorously in warm and high humidity conditions. If you grow it in cool conditions growth will be slow, but it will survive.

Will not occupy much space in cool conditions in good light or shade. If you want to keep its height under control then you need to grow under cool conditions. This philodendron is not fussy as other varieties, as long as the compost is kept moist, whilst reducing the water as the temperature decreases. Can be grown in central-heated homes where the air is drier than normal.

RHOICISSUS RHOMBOIDEA (Grape Ivy)

This 1.8m tall climber has simple tendrils with glossy, dark green leaves that are made up of three diamond-shaped, irregular-edged leaflets. The leaves are coated with fine brownish hairs when young. Often confused with C. rhombifolia.

This plant needs strong canes to support the heavy plant. You can remove the growing tip as this will encourage branching and discourage fast upward growth. Grow it in a cool, well-ventilated area in poor light. Halls, stairwells and foyers but not where temperature can fall excessively.

To check growth you can cut back large plants in spring and feed sparingly during the growing season. You need to water generously in summer, only slightly in winter. In summer an occasional misting will most certainly help the plant.

An attractive alternative is R. capensis (Cape Grape), which is very similar to R. rhomboldea, but it leaves are simpler, larger and pentagonal in outline. The leaves are deep, glossy green and it is grown in exactly the same growing conditions as R. rhomboldea.

SCHEFFLERA ACTINOPHYLLA (Umbrella Tree)

This is a 2.4m tall-growing, evergreen plant with glossy, green, oblong-shaped leaflets that comes from the long stalks, making it look like an umbrella. It is an easy plant to grow, provided you pot on at regular intervals. Young plants have three leaflets to each leaf stalk. This is one plant that does not like being root bound, as this tends to retard plant development.

Grow it in a cool, spacious location where light is poor. Ideal in halls, foyers, and stairwells. If you want to get a large plant you need to place it in a large container. It will take cool temperatures and will need feeding regular, especially of the plant is pot bound. The plant is more lenient in watering, as it can take some neglect- Generous in summer, sparingly in winter.

A beautiful alternative is S. arbericola (Green Rays) that has smaller leaves than S. actinophylla, but is bushier and lower growing, up to 1.8m in height. The plant will need more light to display its very dark, glossy green coloured leaves, but away from direct sunlight. It is more decorative plant as the leaflets on each stem increases more quickly.

SENECIO MACROGLOSSUS (Cape Ivy)

This vigorous climber has ivy-like leaves that have a waxy sheen and is green and gold in variegation. On top of these leaves, small clusters of yellow or yellow and white flowers appear in winter and spring. The plant does not like their roots to be too dry, as this will cause dramatic leaf shredding.

The plant will take a long time to recover and grow new leaves. Conversely, it hates its roots to be waterlogged, as this can cause the roots to rot. It is, therefore, best to grow the plants in large pots to avoid under or overwatering.

Grow this plant up canes and it prefers to grow in moderate warmth and humidity. It does not like large temperature fluctuations often found in draughty places.

Watering is very important, as you need to keep it moist throughout the year, but water more carefully in winter. Frequent misting in summer is required.

A somewhat similar plant is S. mikaniodes (German or Parlour Ivy) that is also a vigorous climber with fleshy, ivy-shaped leaves that are lobed and sharply pointed. Yellow flowers appear in large clusters in winter that are scented. The plant needs all growing conditions to be met in order for it to flower.

THUNBERGIA ALATA (Black-eyed Susan)

This 3m tall annual climber or trailed has large orange, cream, or white flowers with dark chocolate-purple centres. This plant is easy to grow from seed sown on windowsill in early spring.

You need to pot on seedlings to how you wish to grow them on; a single plant can be grown in a 13cm diameter pot, whilst several seedlings can be grown in a hanging basket or trained to grow up a group of bamboo canes.

Prefers to be grown in a cool, airy, bright or slight shade. It is best to climb rather than trail. An occasional feed will help in the production of flowers, where the flowers are observed from summer all the way to autumn.

After flowers have faded, it is best to discard the plant and start again next spring. You need to keep the compost moist at all times but never overwater as this will cause the leaves to turn yellow and drop.

THUNBERGIA GRANDIFLORA

This is a 6m tall vigorous perennial climber that produces large purple-blue flowers from summer to autumn. In the right growing conditions, this plant will romp away. It is best to keep it in check by not potting on regularly and by dramatic pruning back after flowering has finished. The only problem is that dramatic pruning will result in fewer flowers being produced.

Grow it in warm and moderate humidity in slight shade. Does not like chilly or draughty conditions, where it is best to water generously in summer and sparingly at all other times, but never let the compost dry out completely.

Other alternatives include T. gregorii (African Sun Vine) that produces large, stunning orange flowers without the dark centres associated with Black-eyed Susan. You can grow this plant as an annual or as a perennial.

Many people prefer to grow it as an annual and for some, it has a better proportion, especially when it is not possible to maintain the warmth and humidity necessary for the mature plant in winter. Grow it in 18cm diameter pots full of multipurpose compost, surrounded with cane supports.

THUNBERGIA LAURIFOLIA (Laurel-Leaved Thunbergia)

This plant has glossy, green, laurel-like leaves and on top of these, large lavender-blue flowers with white or yellow throats appear on mature plants.

Young plants that you buy may take 3 years to flower but this does not matter as the leaves are quite attractive themselves. The plant needs better temperature control compared to other Thunbergia, but grow as you would T. grandiflora.

TIBOUCHINA URVILLEANA (Glory Bush)

This 4m tall shrub has a profusion of stunning purple-blue saucer-shaped flowers from summer to autumn, or if you can supply warmth it can flower all year round. Grow it in an 18cm diameter pot full of good, quality, multipurpose compost. You need to pinch off growing tips of young plants to encourage it to bush out.

Grow it in cool, airy, slight shade location, such as a conservatory which makes an ideal location, as it can be grown as a wall shrub.

If the temperature is too cool leaves may fall. You can prune back plants in February to maintain compactness and to keep it neat. Water generously in summer, but just enough in winter to prevent root drying out.

YUCCA ELEPHANTIPES (Spineless Yucca)

This 1.5m tall tree-like plant has stiff, sharply pointed, narrow green leaves that are borne on short trunk-like stems. The trunk appears as the plant matures, but this naturally grows slow. Best grown in well-drained, gritty houseplant compost in cool, airy and bright conditions.

The plant can be grown in dry air and will make a useful specimen in halls, foyers and other places, where the plant can reach for the stars. Can reach ceiling height and form large clumps. If the plant gets too big, you can cut out the central growth. Smaller plants can be kept outdoors in summer provided it is well-ventilated. Its slow-growing nature means that it has no need to be fed regularly, just enough to keep the plant happy.

Water well in summer and hardly so in winter.

CONCLUSIONS

In this article, we have discussed the best tall houseplants to have in your home. As you can see there are a large number of plants that can make a statement in your home, to add height, colour, interest, blooms and even scent.

Most giant plants tend to be leaf plants, as can be observed in this article, but there are exceptions which have been highlighted in this article. Climbers in the home are often neglected by most and they will certainly add interest as well as height to the home. They can be used to cover bare walls, especially in conservatories where you have plenty of vacant walls to grow up.

Large plants are in vogue and you now have a large selection to make which most certainly will suit your own personal taste and plant location. If you want to be in fashion this year, why do you not grow some of these plants today?

If you have a question or comment that you wish to make, please do so in the comment box below.

Grow tall this season.