22 Best Bookshelf Plants for Living Rooms
A house truly becomes a home with the addition of plants. Transform your living room bookshelf into a vibrant oasis that enhances aesthetics while improving air quality.
Whether you’re seasoned in plant care or a novice, there are ideal options available for everyone. Discover the top 22 bookshelf plants that can elevate your space and bring joy to your daily life!
Spider Plant
When you think of easy-going houseplants, the spider plant is like that friend who always shows up with snacks—reliable, low-maintenance, and just a joy to have around!
With its arching green leaves and playful little plantlets, it brings a touch of whimsy to your bookshelf. You won’t need to worry about much; it thrives in various lighting conditions and only needs watering when the soil feels dry.
Plus, it’s known for purifying the air, making your space not just beautiful, but healthier too. So, grab a spider plant, and let it sprinkle some greenery into your life!
Pothos
If you’re looking to add a splash of vibrant green to your bookshelf, the pothos plant is your go-to buddy! This easy-going gem thrives in low light and doesn’t mind if you forget to water it occasionally—talk about a low-maintenance friend!
Its heart-shaped leaves come in stunning shades of green and gold, bringing life to any space. Plus, it’s a champion at purifying the air, so you can breathe easy while it looks fabulous.
Just give it a little support for those trailing vines, and you’ll have a bookshelf that looks like a botanical masterpiece. Who wouldn’t love that?
Snake Plant
The snake plant, also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, is a showstopper for your bookshelf!
This striking plant boasts tall, sword-like leaves that add a touch of elegance to any space. Plus, it’s super easy to care for, making it perfect for busy lifestyles. You won’t have to worry about constant watering!
- Thrives in low light, so it’s perfect for cozy corners.
- Cleans the air by filtering toxins, giving your space a fresh vibe.
- Resilient and forgiving, it’ll bounce back even if you forget it for a while!
Bring home a snake plant, and watch your bookshelf come alive!
ZZ Plant
Looking for another plant to spice up your bookshelf? Meet the ZZ Plant!
It’s like your cool, laid-back friend who thrives on neglect. With its glossy, dark green leaves, it adds a touch of elegance to any space.
Plus, it’s super easy to care for—just water it occasionally and let it soak up the low light. No green thumb? No problem! The ZZ Plant’s resilience will leave you amazed.
It’s not just a pretty face; it also helps purify the air. So why not give your bookshelf some personality? You won’t regret inviting this charming plant into your home!
Peace Lily
Imagine bringing a touch of tranquility to your bookshelf with a Peace Lily! This lovely plant not only brightens up your space but also purifies the air, making it a perfect companion for your living room.
Its stunning white blooms can even make your bookshelf look like a mini botanical gallery. Plus, it’s super low-maintenance, so you won’t have to worry about constant care.
- Thrives in low light, perfect for cozy corners
- Blooms beautifully, adding elegance to your decor
- Known for air-purifying qualities, keeping your space fresh
Isn’t that a win-win?
Boston Fern
If you thought the Peace Lily was a showstopper, wait until you meet the Boston Fern! This lush beauty brings a touch of the tropics right to your bookshelf.
With its delicate fronds cascading down like a green waterfall, it’s hard not to smile at its charm. Plus, it loves humidity, so if you’ve got a bathroom or kitchen nearby, it’ll thrive there!
Just remember, it can be a bit picky about light, preferring indirect sunlight.
With a little care, this fern will reward you with vibrant greenery that makes your living space feel fresh and lively. Who wouldn’t want that?
Rubber Plant
When you bring a Rubber Plant into your living room, it’s like inviting a little piece of the rainforest into your home!
With its glossy leaves and impressive height, this plant makes a bold statement. Plus, it’s super easy to care for, even for those without a green thumb.
Just give it bright light and let the soil dry out between waterings. You’ll love how it purifies the air too!
- Adds a touch of elegance
- Thrives in a variety of light conditions
- Perfect for beginners and plant pros alike
Dracaena
Dracaena is one of those plants that can instantly brighten up your living room, and it does so with such flair! With its striking leaves and variety of colors, it’s like nature’s way of adding a pop of personality to your space.
You won’t have to worry much about it either—Dracaena is low-maintenance and thrives in indirect sunlight. Just remember to let the soil dry out between watering, or it might throw a little tantrum!
Whether you place it on a bookshelf or a side table, this plant’s elegance will surely make your living room feel cozier and more inviting.
Fiddle Leaf Fig
The Fiddle Leaf Fig is like the rock star of houseplants, strutting its stuff with those large, glossy leaves that can steal the show in any living room.
You can’t help but admire its dramatic flair! Just be sure to give it the right care, and it’ll thrive like a diva on stage.
- It loves bright, indirect sunlight—too much direct light can be a no-go.
- Water it when the top inch of soil feels dry; it’s thirsty, but not too needy!
- Rotate the plant occasionally for even growth—everyone needs a little spotlight!
Add this beauty to your shelf, and watch the magic happen!
Chinese Evergreen
If you’re on the hunt for a plant that’s as easy-going as your favorite pair of sweatpants, search no more than the Chinese Evergreen!
This delightful green companion thrives in low light and requires minimal care, making it perfect for your busy lifestyle. With its stunning, variegated leaves, it adds a pop of color to your bookshelf.
Plus, it’s got a knack for purifying the air—who wouldn’t want that? Just keep it away from pesky drafts and excessive water, and you’re golden!
Embrace the charm of the Chinese Evergreen, and watch your living space flourish with ease and style!
Parlor Palm
While you might think that bringing a touch of the tropics indoors is a challenge, the Parlor Palm makes it a breeze!
This charming plant thrives in low light and adds a splash of greenery without demanding too much attention. You’ll love how its feathery fronds sway gently, making your living room feel like a mini paradise.
Plus, it’s pet-friendly, so you don’t have to worry about curious paws.
- Low maintenance, perfect for busy lifestyles
- Adapts well to various light conditions
- Adds elegance and a revitalizing vibe
With the Parlor Palm, you can easily create your own tropical retreat!
Calathea
Bringing the beauty of nature indoors doesn’t stop with the Parlor Palm; enter the Calathea, a true showstopper for your living room!
With its stunning, patterned leaves, this plant’s like nature’s artwork you can hang out with. Calatheas thrive in low light, so don’t stress if your living room isn’t a sunbathing hotspot.
They love humidity, so go ahead and mist them like you’re giving them a spa day! Keep the soil moist, and watch them dance a little with their natural movement.
Plus, they’re pet-friendly, so your furry friends can enjoy the beauty too! How cool is that?
Succulents
Succulents are like little green treasures that can brighten up your living room! These charming plants come in various shapes and colors, adding a lively touch to any bookshelf.
Plus, they’re low-maintenance, so you won’t need a green thumb to keep them thriving. Just a little sunlight and water, and they’ll be happy!
- They store water in their leaves, so you won’t be watering them every day.
- Their unique shapes spark conversations—who doesn’t love a quirky plant?
- They’re perfect for small spaces, making them ideal companions for your favorite books.
Get ready to enjoy your new green friends!
Bird’s Nest Fern
Imagine a lush, green oasis right on your bookshelf—meet the Bird’s Nest Fern! This beauty thrives in low light, making it perfect for cozy corners.
Its wavy, bright green fronds create a stunning focal point. Plus, it’s low-maintenance! Just keep the soil moist, and it’ll flourish.
Don’t worry if you forget to water it occasionally; it won’t hold a grudge! Just give it a little love, and it’ll reward you with vibrant growth.
Philodendron
If you’re looking to add a splash of personality to your bookshelf, the Philodendron is ready to steal the show!
This charming plant thrives in various light conditions and adds a fresh touch to your space. Plus, its lush, heart-shaped leaves create a vibrant look that can inspire anyone.
Easy to care for, you won’t need a green thumb to keep it happy.
- Perfect for beginners
- Adapts to low light
- Purifies the air
English Ivy
English Ivy is like the classic rock star of bookshelf plants—always in style and ready to make a statement!
With its lush, trailing vines, it adds a touch of elegance to any space. You’ll love how it gracefully drapes over your shelves, creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Plus, it’s super easy to care for—just give it bright, indirect light and keep the soil moist. Don’t worry, it won’t mind a missed watering here and there; it’s a resilient little superstar!
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is like having a mini wellness guru right on your bookshelf! Not only does this resilient plant look great, but it’s also packed with benefits.
When you care for Aloe Vera, you’re not just nurturing a plant; you’re inviting health into your home.
- It’s a natural air purifier, helping to keep your space fresh.
- The gel inside its leaves soothes burns and skin irritations—just a little slice, and you’re golden!
- Plus, it’s low maintenance, so you can focus on your reading while it thrives!
With Aloe Vera, you’re cultivating natural wellness effortlessly!
Cast Iron Plant
Looking for a plant that can withstand your living room’s challenges? Say hello to the Cast Iron Plant!
This tough little green buddy thrives in low light and tolerates neglect like a pro. You won’t have to coddle it with constant watering or perfect humidity levels. Just place it on your bookshelf, and let it do its thing!
Its glossy, dark green leaves add a touch of elegance, making it a stylish addition to any decor. Plus, it’s pet-friendly, so your furry friends can roam without worry.
With the Cast Iron Plant, you’ll have a resilient companion, no green thumb required!
Croton
If you’re ready to switch things up from the tough-as-nails Cast Iron Plant, meet the Croton!
This vibrant beauty will add a splash of color to your bookshelf with its striking leaves in hues of yellow, orange, and red.
Crotons thrive in bright, indirect light and love a bit of humidity, so keep that in mind! They can be a tad picky, but their dramatic flair is worth it.
- They’re a fantastic conversation starter.
- Crotons can boost your mood with their bright colors.
- With a little care, they’ll reward you with stunning foliage!
Get ready for a lively addition!
Money Tree
The Money Tree is like the good luck charm of the plant world, and it’s perfect for adding a touch of charm to your living room bookshelf!
With its braided trunk and glossy leaves, it’s not just a pretty face; it’s believed to bring prosperity. Plus, it’s low-maintenance, which means you don’t have to be a plant whisperer to keep it thriving.
Just place it in bright, indirect light, and water it when the soil feels dry. Who knew good fortune could be so easy?
Anthurium
Anthuriums are like the party guests of the plant world—always bringing vibrant color and a cheerful vibe to your living room bookshelf!
With their glossy, heart-shaped leaves and striking blooms, they’ll instantly brighten up your space. Plus, they’re pretty low-maintenance, making them perfect for busy folks like you.
Here’s why you’ll love having an Anthurium:
- They thrive in indirect light, so no need for a sunbathing spot.
- Their long-lasting flowers can bloom year-round, keeping the party going!
- They purify the air, helping you breathe easier while you enjoy their beauty.
Invite one in, and let the fun begin!
Jade Plant
Looking for a plant that’s not just a pretty face? The Jade Plant, with its glossy leaves and charming appearance, is a fantastic choice!
This succulent isn’t just about looks; it’s believed to bring good luck and prosperity. Plus, it’s super easy to care for—just a little sunlight and occasional watering, and you’re golden!
Place it on your bookshelf, and it’ll thrive, adding a touch of green without demanding too much attention. And hey, if you forget to water it once in a while, it won’t hold a grudge!
Get ready to welcome this delightful companion into your home!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Choose the Right Plant for Low Light Conditions?
When you’re choosing a plant for low light, consider options like snake plants or pothos. Check their care needs, guarantee they fit your space, and remember to rotate them occasionally for balanced growth.
What Are the Best Care Tips for Indoor Plant Health?
What’s the secret to thriving indoor plants? You’ve gotta make sure they get proper light, water them right, and maintain humidity. Regularly check for pests, and don’t forget to occasionally rotate them for even growth!
Can These Plants Improve Indoor Air Quality?
Yes, these plants can definitely improve indoor air quality. They absorb toxins, release oxygen, and create a healthier atmosphere. By incorporating them into your space, you’re enhancing both your environment and overall well-being.
How Often Should I Water My Bookshelf Plants?
You should water your bookshelf plants when the top inch of soil feels dry. Typically, this means watering every week or two, but always check individual plant needs for peak health and growth.
Are There Any Pet-Friendly Options Among These Plants?
Yes, there are pet-friendly options among those plants. You should look for varieties like spider plants or Boston ferns, as they’re safe for pets and can thrive beautifully on your bookshelf. Keep exploring!
Conclusion
Adding plants to your bookshelf enhances your space and can elevate your mood. Houseplants are capable of removing up to 87% of toxins from the air every 24 hours.
Choose from our fantastic plant options to transform your living room into a vibrant oasis. Happy planting, and may your green friends thrive and bring you joy!
