It is so important to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your living space, which is why we’re excited to share some of our favorite houseplants that will not only brighten up your apartment but also thrive in apartments in Japan. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or just starting your indoor garden journey, these green companions will add life and vibrancy to your home. Please read on to find out how to transform your home into a lush oasis.
Ponytail Palm
Originating from Mexico, these unique plants are characterized by their distinctive swollen trunk that tapers off into long, slender, grass-like leaves, resembling a ponytail—hence the name. The ponytail palm is scientifically known as Beaucarnea recurvata.
Caring for ponytail palms is relatively easy, making them ideal for apartment living. They thrive in bright, indirect sunlight, making them perfect for placing near windows. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot, as ponytail palms are drought-tolerant and prefer being under-watered rather than over-watered, like most palms. Use a well-draining potting mix to ensure proper drainage.
During the growing season in spring and summer, fertilize the plant lightly to promote healthy growth. Additionally, occasional pruning of dead or damaged leaves will help maintain its aesthetic appeal. With proper care, your ponytail palm can be a long-lasting and intriguing focal point in your apartment.
String of Pearls
String of pearls plants, scientifically known as Senecio rowleyanus, are charming succulents that have gained popularity as apartment plants in Japan and around the world. Native to South Africa, these plants feature trailing stems adorned with spherical, bead-like leaves, giving them a distinctive and captivating appearance.
Caring for string of pearls plants is relatively straightforward once you figure out the balance between watering them and letting them dry out. They thrive in bright, indirect sunlight but can also tolerate some shade. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, as they are sensitive to overwatering, which often causes root rot. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water logging.
String of pearls plants became popular in the 1970s during the era of “hippie” and Bohemian culture. Their unique appearance and low-maintenance nature made them desirable houseplants, and they have since become iconic symbols of retro and vintage interior design. In recent years they have resurged in popularity due to their unique bead-like foliage and the popularity of houseplants on social media. Incorporating a string of pearls plant into your apartment can add a touch of nostalgia and whimsy to your living space.
Fishbone Cactus
Originating from Mexico, this cactus gets its name from the distinct zigzag pattern of its stems, resembling the skeleton of a fish. The Fishbone Cactus, also known as Epiphyllum anguliger, is a striking and unique succulent. This is the jazziest of all house plants and adds a fun modern feel to any apartment.
Despite its already very impressive foliage, the Fishbone Cactus also has some stunning nocturnal blooms, which typically appear in late spring or early summer. These flowers, which are usually white or cream-colored, open at night and emit a sweet fragrance, adding an enchanting element to your apartment’s ambiance.
Since they are succulent, fishbone cactus’ don’t need much to keep them happy – provide bright, indirect light for optimal growth, although they can tolerate some shade. Like most plants on this list, allow their soil to dry out between waterings. During the growing season in spring and summer, fertilize lightly to encourage healthy growth.
Philodendron Brasil
Philodendron Brasil is a popular choice for apartments in Japan, adding a touch of vibrant green to indoor spaces. This tropical beauty is cherished for its striking foliage, featuring glossy heart-shaped leaves adorned with vivid lime green and creamy yellow stripes, adding a lively accent to any room.
Caring for Philodendron Brasil is relatively simple. It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions, making it versatile for various apartment settings. Since they are from the rainforest, philodendrons do like humidity. Misting them regularly will keep them happy. Watering should be moderate, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. Regular misting helps maintain humidity levels, especially in dry indoor environments.
An interesting fact about Philodendron Brasil is its air-purifying qualities. Like many houseplants, it helps improve indoor air quality by filtering out pollutants, and promoting a healthier living environment. This dual-purpose plant not only enhances your apartment’s aesthetic appeal but also contributes to your well-being.
Philodendrons come in a variety of stunning forms, each with its own unique characteristics. For example, Philodendron micans feature velvety, heart-shaped leaves with striking bronze undertones, while Philodendron pink princess showcases eye-catching pink variegation on its dark green foliage. Another popular variety, Philodendron hederaceum, known as the “Heartleaf Philodendron,” boasts cascading vines adorned with glossy, heart-shaped leaves, making it an excellent choice for hanging baskets or trailing down shelves. These diverse philodendron varieties offer options for every plant lover, from those seeking bold colors to those desiring classic elegance in their indoor greenery.
Alocasia Green Velvet
Alocasia Green Velvet, with its lush, velvety leaves, is a stunning addition to any apartment. This tropical beauty is prized for its unique foliage, which boasts deep green hues and a velvety texture, adding an elegant touch to indoor spaces.
Caring for Alocasia Green Velvet requires attention to its specific needs. It thrives in bright, indirect light but can scorch in direct sunlight. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot. Regular misting or placing a humidifier nearby helps maintain the humidity levels this plant prefers.
The Alocasia Green Velvet and other varieties of alocasia are known as “elephant ear plants,” due to the large, ear-shaped leaves they produce.
Other popular Alocasia varieties include Alocasia Polly, known for its arrow-shaped leaves, and Alocasia Frydek, characterized by its striking silver-green foliage. These plants offer diverse options for apartment dwellers seeking to add a touch of exotic beauty to their apartments.
Whether you’re drawn to the chic Philodendron Brasil or the quirky Fishbone Cactus, our Village House apartments love being filled with greenery and life. Explore nearby nurseries or houseplants shops in bigger cities to find the rarer plants or head to popular retailers like Daiki, Daiso, Ikea, and Nijigen No Mori to find an array of houseplants tailored to your taste.
Hello, I’m Jazmine Kelly, a freelance writer who has been writing about travel and interior design for 3 years. My love of travel and exploring countries began at a young age thanks to my adventurous parents who moved our family abroad. I learnt from my Dad how to find great deals for trips and find unique destinations to visit. I moved to Hyogo in March 2020 and haven’t looked back since, always making the most of any adventure! Having lived in various countries and apartments, I’ve learnt the importance of making a house feel like a home. Decorating rented homes on a tight budget allowed me to express my creativity and develop a love for interior design. As well as travelling, I love crafts, interior design, music, and spending time outside in nature.