When summer rolls around, most of us throw open the windows, let in the breeze, and suddenly remember how nice it is to have a home full of life. Enter: house plants. Not just leafy backdrops for your Pinterest dreams—real, living greenery that thrives in the summer months and gives your space a serious glow-up. The right plant can cool a room (visually and literally), improve air quality, and make your flat feel like a fresh-air retreat.
Here’s your 2025 guide to the best house plants for summer. Think resilience, beauty, and low-key maintenance.
1. Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)
This one’s a showstopper. Big, bold leaves that look like they belong on a tropical island, not in your front room. The Bird of Paradise loves bright, indirect sunlight—which makes it ideal for sun-drenched summer windows. While it’s unlikely to bloom indoors, the lush foliage is more than enough of a statement. Water it once the top inch of soil feels dry. And maybe name it something dramatic—it deserves it.
2. Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata)
Don’t let the name fool you—it’s not a palm, and it’s anything but fussy. The Ponytail Palm is actually a succulent, meaning it stores water in its bulbous trunk. It thrives in bright light, can handle a bit of neglect, and looks like it should be sipping margaritas in a seaside villa. Ideal for summer when you might forget to water things.
3. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
If you want that holiday-resort vibe, this one’s your friend. The Areca Palm has feathery fronds and brings a soft, relaxed texture to any room. It loves filtered light and regular watering during summer—but don’t let it sit in soggy soil. Bonus: it’s one of NASA’s top air-purifying plants. You’re basically bringing a spa into your home.
4. String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)
For something a little more delicate, the String of Pearls is a summer darling. Trailing strands of bead-like leaves spill out of hanging pots, catching the light like something out of a jewellery advert. It’s technically a succulent, so water sparingly, and keep it near a bright window. You’ll be surprised how quickly it grows when it’s happy.
5. Calathea Orbifolia
Not everything needs to be sunny and drought-tolerant. If your flat doesn’t get a lot of direct light, Calathea Orbifolia might be your ideal companion. Known for its broad, silvery-striped leaves, it’s a bit more sensitive—keep the soil consistently moist (but not soggy) and mist it occasionally to mimic its tropical roots. The reward? Lush, painterly foliage that looks stunning all season long.
6. Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
A classic. The Jade Plant is a slow grower with thick, glossy leaves and a reputation for being almost indestructible. It loves light—so summer is its moment. Let the soil dry out between waterings and avoid over-loving it. With the right conditions, it can live for decades. And yes, it’s considered lucky.
7. Swiss Cheese Plant (Monstera deliciosa)
Trendy, yes. But still worth the hype. The Monstera’s iconic split leaves give any room an instant dose of style. It prefers bright, indirect light and appreciates a good drink in the hotter months—but let it dry out slightly between waterings. It grows fast in the summer, so be prepared to repot or stake it if it starts taking over.
Tips for Summer Plant Care:
- Rotate regularly so all sides get sunlight evenly.
- Watch for leaf scorch—too much direct sun can burn delicate leaves.
- Wipe leaves every few weeks to remove dust and help them breathe.
- Hydrate more often, but check the soil first. Overwatering is the silent killer.
In a nutshell: Summer is a brilliant time to introduce new plant life into your home. With the longer days and extra light, most indoor plants enter their growth season—which means they’ll thrive with a little love. Whether you’re after drama (Bird of Paradise), trailing elegance (String of Pearls), or low-fuss greenery (Ponytail Palm), there’s a perfect plant for every corner.