House plants with red and green leaves bring vibrant color and visual interest to indoor spaces. These plants offer a striking contrast between their green foliage and red accents, creating eye-catching displays. Adding these colorful plants to your home can enhance its decor and create a lively atmosphere.
Many red and green leaf plants are easy to care for, making them suitable for both experienced gardeners and beginners. They come in various shapes, sizes, and patterns, allowing plant enthusiasts to choose options that best fit their preferences and living spaces. From compact tabletop varieties to larger floor plants, there are numerous choices to explore in the world of red and green house plants.
1) Aglaonema ‘Siam Aurora’
Aglaonema ‘Siam Aurora’ is a striking houseplant known for its vibrant red and green foliage. This Chinese Evergreen variety adds a pop of color to any indoor space with its glossy, lance-shaped leaves.
The leaves feature a unique pattern with green centers and bold red edges. Some plants may display light coral or crimson red variegation along the midribs, creating an eye-catching contrast.
‘Siam Aurora’ thrives in medium to high indirect light. It’s best to avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the colorful leaves. The plant prefers temperatures above 60°F (15.5°C) and humidity levels of at least 60%.
For optimal growth, plant ‘Siam Aurora’ in a well-draining potting mix. A blend of houseplant soil, peat moss, and perlite works well. Adding some orchid bark can further improve drainage.
This Aglaonema variety is relatively low-maintenance and adaptable to typical household conditions. Its colorful foliage makes it a popular choice for brightening up homes and offices.
2) Coleus ‘Wizard Scarlet’
Coleus ‘Wizard Scarlet’ is a striking houseplant known for its vibrant red and green leaves. This plant belongs to the Coleus genus, which is prized for its colorful foliage.
The leaves of ‘Wizard Scarlet’ are primarily scarlet-red with bright green edges. This eye-catching color combination makes it a popular choice for adding a pop of color to indoor spaces.
‘Wizard Scarlet’ is a compact plant, typically growing 12-14 inches tall. It has a bushy habit and doesn’t require pinching to maintain its shape.
This Coleus variety is relatively low-maintenance. It thrives in well-draining soil and prefers partial shade. However, it can tolerate full sun in some conditions.
Indoors, ‘Wizard Scarlet’ can be grown on a sunny windowsill. It also works well in outdoor containers or shaded garden borders.
The plant is known for its foliage rather than its flowers. While it may produce small blooms, they are not as visually appealing as the leaves.
‘Wizard Scarlet’ is part of the Wizard series of Coleus, which includes other colorful varieties. This series is valued for its consistent growth habits and vibrant colors.
3) Caladium bicolor
Caladium bicolor is a popular houseplant known for its stunning red and green leaves. These plants are prized for their heart-shaped foliage that comes in a variety of color combinations.
The leaves of Caladium bicolor can grow up to 6-12 inches long and 4-8 inches wide. They often feature vibrant patterns with green edges and red centers, though some varieties may have pink or white accents as well.
Caladiums are tropical plants that thrive in warm, humid environments. They prefer bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. These plants are often grown as annuals or brought indoors during colder months.
There are many cultivars of Caladium bicolor available. Some popular ones include ‘Florida Sweetheart’ with bold green leaves and red edges, and ‘Red Flash’ with olive-green leaves and deep red veins.
Caladiums can add a pop of color to any indoor space. They work well in containers or as part of mixed plantings. These plants are relatively low-maintenance but may go dormant in winter.
When growing Caladium bicolor indoors, it’s important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. They benefit from regular misting to increase humidity around the plant.
4) Begonia ‘Rex’
Begonia ‘Rex’ is a stunning houseplant known for its colorful foliage. These plants have large, showy leaves with intricate patterns of red, green, silver, and purple.
The leaves of Begonia ‘Rex’ can grow up to 6 inches long. They come in various shapes, including heart-shaped, spiral, or oblong forms. The leaf textures range from smooth to slightly fuzzy.
Many Begonia ‘Rex’ varieties exist, each with unique color combinations. The ‘Red Kiss’ cultivar features deep red leaves with black margins and veins. ‘Ballet’ displays silver-green leaves with mid-green edges and eye-catching red stems.
Begonia ‘Rex’ plants prefer bright, indirect light. They thrive in humid environments and well-draining soil. These plants typically grow 12-18 inches tall and wide, making them suitable for small spaces.
While Begonia ‘Rex’ can produce small pink or white flowers, the foliage is the main attraction. The plants are grown primarily for their striking leaves rather than their blooms.
Proper care includes regular watering when the top inch of soil feels dry. Fertilize every other month during the growing season for best results. With the right care, Begonia ‘Rex’ adds a vibrant splash of red and green to any indoor space.
5) Alocasia ‘Polly’
Alocasia ‘Polly’ is a striking houseplant known for its dark green leaves with white veins. This compact plant typically grows to about 2 feet tall, making it perfect for indoor spaces.
The leaves of Alocasia ‘Polly’ are its main attraction. They have a glossy texture and a distinctive arrow shape. The white veins create a beautiful contrast against the deep green background.
This plant likes bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can damage its leaves. Alocasia ‘Polly’ prefers warm temperatures between 65 and 85°F.
It needs high humidity to thrive. Regular misting or using a humidity tray can help meet this requirement. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Alocasia ‘Polly’ can be a bit challenging to care for. It’s sensitive to changes in its environment. With the right conditions, though, it can be a stunning addition to any indoor plant collection.
6) Peperomia caperata ‘Rosso’
Peperomia caperata ‘Rosso’ is a striking houseplant with red and green leaves. It’s a compact plant that grows well in small containers, making it perfect for tight spaces.
The leaves of this plant are its main attraction. They have a dark green, almost black color on top with deep veins. The undersides of the leaves are a vibrant red.
‘Rosso’ has a unique texture. Its leaves are wrinkled and heart-shaped, giving the plant an interesting appearance. The leaves grow on the tips of long red stems.
This plant thrives in normal room temperatures between 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. It prefers average to high humidity, so it’s a good choice for bathrooms.
When it comes to soil, ‘Rosso’ likes a well-draining mix. You can use a mix made for orchids or succulents. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH of 6.0 to 6.6.
Peperomia caperata ‘Rosso’ doesn’t need much water. Let the soil dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. It also doesn’t require frequent fertilizing.
This plant does best in bright, indirect light. Too much direct sun can damage its leaves. It’s a low-maintenance option for those who want an eye-catching houseplant.
7) Anthurium andraeanum
Anthurium andraeanum, also known as flamingo flower or painter’s palette, is a popular houseplant with striking red and green leaves. Its most eye-catching feature is the heart-shaped, waxy red spathe that many people mistake for a flower.
The true flowers are tiny and grow on the spadix, a spike-like structure in the center of the spathe. The plant’s dark green leaves are large, leathery, and glossy, creating a beautiful contrast with the red spathe.
Anthurium andraeanum prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves, while too little light may result in fewer blooms. These plants thrive in warm temperatures between 60°F and 85°F.
Well-draining soil is essential for anthuriums. They like slightly moist soil but can’t tolerate waterlogged conditions. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Anthurium andraeanum is known for its air-purifying qualities. It can help remove harmful pollutants like formaldehyde and ammonia from indoor air. However, it’s important to note that the plant is toxic if ingested, so keep it away from pets and children.
With proper care, anthurium plants can bloom year-round, adding a pop of color to any indoor space. Their unique appearance and relatively easy care requirements make them a favorite among plant enthusiasts.
8) Croton ‘Petra’
Croton ‘Petra’ is a stunning houseplant known for its vibrant red and green foliage. This tropical beauty belongs to the Codiaeum variegatum species and is prized for its large, glossy leaves.
The leaves of Croton ‘Petra’ can grow up to 18 inches long. They feature a mix of green, yellow, orange, and red hues, creating a eye-catching display. The colors often appear as veins or splotches across the leaf surface.
Croton ‘Petra’ thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. It prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering. This plant can reach heights of 4-6 feet when grown indoors, making it a striking addition to any room.
To keep Croton ‘Petra’ looking its best, maintain consistent humidity levels. Regular misting or use of a pebble tray can help meet its moisture needs. Pruning can encourage bushier growth and maintain the plant’s shape.
While Croton ‘Petra’ is primarily grown for its foliage, it may occasionally produce small flowers. These blooms are typically insignificant compared to the plant’s colorful leaves.
9) Hypoestes phyllostachya (Polka Dot Plant)
Hypoestes phyllostachya, commonly known as the polka dot plant, is a vibrant houseplant with red and green leaves. This small, bushy plant typically grows to a height of 1 to 2 feet, making it perfect for indoor spaces.
The polka dot plant’s most striking feature is its colorful foliage. The leaves are usually dark green with pink or red spots, giving them a freckled appearance. Some varieties have white or light green spots instead.
Native to Madagascar, this tropical plant thrives in warm, humid environments. It prefers temperatures between 70 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, similar to most homes.
Polka dot plants need bright, indirect light to maintain their vivid colors. Too much direct sunlight can fade the spots and burn the leaves. Too little light can cause the plant to become leggy and lose its compact shape.
Well-draining soil is crucial for polka dot plants. They like their soil to be consistently moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, a common problem for these plants.
Regular pruning helps keep polka dot plants bushy and full. Pinching off the growing tips encourages branching and prevents the plant from becoming too tall and sparse.
These plants are non-toxic to pets, making them a safe choice for homes with cats and dogs. Their colorful foliage adds a splash of brightness to any room or garden.
10) Poinsettia ‘Prestige Red’
Poinsettia ‘Prestige Red’ is a popular houseplant with striking red and green foliage. It’s a classic choice for holiday decorations, especially during Christmas time.
This variety features bright red bracts surrounding small yellow flowers. The bracts are actually modified leaves that give the plant its signature color. The rest of the foliage is dark green, creating a beautiful contrast.
‘Prestige Red’ is known for its large bract size and vibrant color. It’s considered an industry standard for red poinsettias. The plant has a medium vigor and typically grows to an extra-large size.
Caring for ‘Prestige Red’ poinsettias is relatively simple. They prefer bright, indirect light and temperatures between 60-70°F. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, but avoid overwatering.
To keep the plant looking its best, remove any fallen leaves promptly. With proper care, ‘Prestige Red’ poinsettias can maintain their colorful display for several weeks.
After the holiday season, these plants can be kept as houseplants year-round. With some effort, they can even be encouraged to rebloom the following year.
11) Neoregalia ‘Fireball’
Neoregalia ‘Fireball’ is a striking bromeliad that lives up to its name. This compact plant features vivid red leaves that form a tight rosette shape. In bright light, the foliage takes on a deep, blood-red hue.
When grown in lower light conditions, the leaves may display a mix of red and green colors. The plant typically reaches about 6 inches in height and can spread up to 12 inches wide. This makes it an excellent choice for small spaces or as a colorful ground cover.
Native to the rainforests of Brazil, Neoregalia ‘Fireball’ is part of the Bromeliaceae family. It thrives in warm, humid environments and is well-suited for indoor growing in many climates. The plant does best in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11.
Like other bromeliads, ‘Fireball’ reproduces by producing small offsets called “pups.” These young plants grow from the base of the mother plant. Once the pups reach about two-thirds the size of the parent, they can be safely separated and planted on their own.
Caring for Neoregalia ‘Fireball’ is relatively simple. It prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Water should be added to the center cup formed by its leaves, mimicking its natural rainforest habitat.
This eye-catching plant is a popular choice for terrariums due to its compact size and bold coloration. Its fiery red leaves can add a pop of color to any indoor plant collection or tropical-themed garden space.
12) Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’
The Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’ is a stunning houseplant with dark green, heart-shaped leaves adorned with vibrant pink variegation. This tropical beauty belongs to the Araceae family and is native to Colombia.
Despite its high price tag, the Pink Princess is relatively easy to care for. It thrives in bright, indirect light, which helps maintain its unique coloration. Too little light can cause the plant to produce more green leaves and lose its pink hues.
The Pink Princess prefers consistently moist soil but should not be overwatered. Well-draining soil is essential to prevent root rot. This plant enjoys temperatures between 63-80°F (17-27°C) and benefits from moderate humidity.
Regular pruning helps maintain the plant’s shape and encourages new growth. Propagation can be done through stem cuttings, allowing plant enthusiasts to grow more of these coveted beauties.
It’s important to note that the Pink Princess has unstable variegation. Some leaves may be entirely green, while others showcase stunning pink patterns. This unpredictability adds to the plant’s charm and uniqueness.
As a climbing plant, the Pink Princess can be grown on a moss pole or trellis to support its vining nature. This not only helps the plant grow larger leaves but also creates an impressive display in any indoor space.
13) Cordyline fruticosa ‘Red Sister’
Cordyline fruticosa ‘Red Sister’ is a striking tropical plant known for its vibrant red and green foliage. This eye-catching houseplant can grow up to 4-6 feet tall in ideal conditions.
The ‘Red Sister’ variety features large, glossy leaves that spiral elegantly in an upright column. New leaves emerge in a bright cherry pink color, maturing into deep scarlet and burgundy hues.
As the leaves age, they retain some pink streaks and edging, creating a beautiful contrast. The mix of red and green tones makes this plant a standout addition to any indoor space.
Cordyline ‘Red Sister’ thrives in bright, indirect light and prefers warm temperatures between 60-85°F (15-29°C). It’s important to protect the plant from cold drafts and temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
This plant is relatively low-maintenance and resistant to most pests. Spider mites and mealybugs can occasionally be a problem, but they’re usually easy to manage with proper care.
Cordyline ‘Red Sister’ adds a tropical flair to home decor. Its dramatic colors and form make it an excellent choice for adding visual interest to any room.
14) Aechmea fasciata ‘Primera’
Aechmea fasciata ‘Primera’ is a stunning bromeliad known as the Urn Plant or Silver Vase Plant. It features eye-catching green leaves with silver stripes, creating a striking contrast.
This plant forms a rosette of broad, arching leaves that can reach up to 60 cm in height. The leaves have a unique grey-green color with silvery bands running across their surface.
In summer, Aechmea fasciata ‘Primera’ produces a showy pink flower spike. This bloom emerges from the center of the plant and can last for several months, adding a pop of color to any indoor space.
As a tropical plant, it thrives in warm, humid environments. It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Watering this plant is unique. Instead of watering the soil, fill the central cup formed by the leaves. This mimics its natural habitat where it collects water in its leaf axils.
Aechmea fasciata ‘Primera’ is relatively low-maintenance. It doesn’t need frequent repotting and can grow well in small containers. This makes it an ideal choice for those new to houseplants.
Despite its tropical origins, this plant adapts well to indoor conditions. It can tolerate average home humidity levels but will appreciate occasional misting.
15) Ti Plant ‘Red Sensation’
The Ti Plant ‘Red Sensation‘ is a stunning variety of Cordyline fruticosa. This tropical plant is known for its vibrant red and green foliage. The leaves are long, sword-shaped, and grow in a spiral pattern around the stem.
‘Red Sensation’ features deep red leaves with hints of pink and burgundy. Some leaves may have green edges or streaks, adding to the plant’s visual appeal. The color intensity can vary depending on light exposure.
This plant can grow up to 6 feet tall indoors, making it a striking focal point in any room. It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some shade. Avoid direct sunlight, as it may scorch the leaves.
The Ti Plant ‘Red Sensation’ likes warm temperatures and high humidity. It’s best suited for USDA zones 10-12 but thrives as a houseplant in cooler climates. Water it regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy.
In Hawaiian culture, Ti plants are believed to bring good luck. ‘Red Sensation’ is no exception, adding both beauty and positive energy to your space. Its bold colors make it an excellent choice for adding a tropical flair to your home decor.
Caring for Red and Green House Plants
Red and green house plants need proper watering, lighting, and soil conditions to thrive. These factors vary depending on the specific plant species.
Watering Requirements
Most red and green house plants prefer moist but not soggy soil. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Use room temperature water and avoid getting the leaves wet.
Plants like Chinese Evergreens can handle periods of drought. Let the soil dry out between waterings for these plants.
Some varieties, like the Red Veined Nerve Plant, need more frequent watering. Keep their soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Always check the soil moisture before watering. Adjust your watering schedule based on the season and indoor conditions.
Light Conditions
Many red and green house plants do best in bright, indirect light. Place them near east or west-facing windows for ideal exposure.
Some plants, like Aglaonemas, can tolerate lower light levels. They make great choices for darker corners or north-facing windows.
Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves and fade the vibrant colors. If leaves start to lose their red hues, try moving the plant to a brighter spot.
Rotate your plants every few weeks to ensure even growth and color development on all sides.
Soil and Fertilization
Use a well-draining potting mix for red and green house plants. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and regular potting soil works well for most varieties.
Fertilize your plants every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Dilute the fertilizer to half-strength to avoid over-fertilizing.
Stop fertilizing in fall and winter when plant growth slows down. Resume in spring when new growth appears.
Some plants, like the Red Maple, may need repotting every 1-2 years. Choose a pot 1-2 inches larger than the current one when repotting.
Common Pests and Diseases
Plants with red and green leaves can face threats from pests and diseases. Spotting issues early and taking steps to prevent them are key to keeping plants healthy.
Identifying Common Pests
Aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites often attack indoor plants. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that cluster on new growth. Mealybugs look like tiny cotton balls and gather in leaf joints.
Spider mites are very tiny and make fine webs on leaves. Scale insects form hard bumps on stems and leaves. Fungus gnats fly around potting soil and can be a nuisance.
Look for discolored or distorted leaves, sticky residue, or tiny moving insects. Regularly check the undersides of leaves and stem joints where pests like to hide.
Preventative Measures
Clean leaves regularly with a damp cloth to remove dust and pests. This also helps spot problems early. Use sterile potting soil and clean pots to avoid bringing in pests or diseases.
Don’t overwater plants, as wet soil can lead to fungal growth and attract pests. Provide good air flow around plants to discourage fungal issues.
Quarantine new plants for a few weeks before placing them near other houseplants. This stops pests from spreading. Remove dead leaves and debris from pots to take away hiding spots for pests.
Conclusion
Red and green houseplants bring vibrant beauty to any home. They add visual interest with their striking color combinations. Many are easy to care for, making them great choices for both new and experienced plant owners.
These plants come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some have bold patterns, while others showcase subtle color shifts. From small tabletop plants to larger floor specimens, there’s an option for every space.
Caring for red and green houseplants often follows standard indoor plant care. Most need bright, indirect light and regular watering. Some may require higher humidity or specific soil types.
Adding these colorful plants can transform a room’s atmosphere. They create focal points and complement existing decor. With proper care, these plants will thrive and continue to delight with their eye-catching foliage.
Consider mixing different red and green varieties for a diverse indoor garden. This creates an interesting display of textures and shades. Whether you choose one statement plant or a collection, these houseplants are sure to brighten your living space.
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