Are you ready to add some goth plants to your indoor garden? Firs of all, let’s debunk a common myth – black houseplants aren’t entirely black. Their foliage comes in darker shades of green, red, purple, or maroon, giving them an almost black appearance. So, if you plant’s new leaves got a touch of green or shifting hues, worry not, it’s normal. Simply ensure it receives the proper care, and it will evolve beautifully.
In a previous article we also talked about how variegated leaves, though aesthetically pleasing, compromise a plant’s energy production due to a lower chlorophyll content. But what about our dark leaf houseplants? Interestingly, a study comparing black and green plants found that darker leaves don’t come with competitive advantages.
However, let’s shift our focus from the scientific aspect to the captivating aesthetic appeal of these plants with black leaves.
Table of Contents
1. Philodendron erubescens ‘Black Cardinal’
First on our list is the ‘Black Cardinal’, a philodendron variety that comes with lovely dark leaves that change from deep burgundy or bronze to near-black as they mature.
It’s one of those goth plants that won’t give you a hard time. Simply plant it in well-drained soil, place it somewhere with indirect light, and water when the soil dries out.
- Scientific Name: Philodendron Erubescens ‘Black Cardinal’
- Native To: Colombia
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Ease of Care: Easy
2. Burgundy Rubber Tree
The Burgundy Rubber Tree, a popular variant of Ficus elastica, shows off darker green leaves with shades of red in its new growth. Its ease of care is similar to its green cousin – a little bit of bright, indirect light and moderate watering keeps it happy.
- Scientific Name: Ficus elastica ‘Burgundy’
- Native To: India and Malaysia
- Plant Type: Evergreen Perennial
- Ease of Care: Moderate
3. Zamioculcas Zamiifolia ‘Dowon’
The ZZ ‘Dowon’ (or ‘Raven’) is a beloved choice for its resilience. Its luscious green leaves slowly transition to a dark hue, adding a unique charm to this low-maintenance black indoor plant.
It shares the hardiness of its species and is incredibly easy to care for! Make sure to check out our ZZ plant care guide for more info!
- Scientific Name: Zamioculcas Zamiifolia ‘Raven’
- Native To: Eastern Africa
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Ease of Care: Easy
4. Alocasia reginula ‘Black Velvet’
The Alocasia ‘Black Velvet’ is a head-turner with its black-velvet leaves contrasted by silver veins. While it’s not particularly fussy, you should be cautious with watering as it’s prone to root rot.
- Scientific Name: Alocasia Reginula ‘Black Velvet’
- Native To: Borneo
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Ease of Care: Moderate
5. Jewel Orchid
A unique entry on our list, the Ludisia discolor is not your typical flamboyant orchid. It features striking dark green leaves symmetrically lined with white-pink, creating a delightful contrast.
This plant, although not that flashy in terms of flowers, sure makes a statement with its darker leaves.
- Scientific Name: Ludisia discolor
- Native To: Southeast Asia
- Plant Type: Orchid
- Ease of Care: Moderate
6. Rose Painted Calathea
The Rose Painted Calathea dazzles with its black foliage accented by deep-pink stripes and red-purple undersides. Despite its stunning visuals, this goth plant requires special attention, especially when it comes to humidity.
- Scientific Name: Goeppertia roseopicta
- Native To: Northwestern Brazil
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Ease of Care: Difficult
And since you’re here, you can also check out our articles on calathea varieties and purple leaf houseplants for more inspiration!
7. Echeveria ‘Black Prince’
Echeveria ‘Black Prince’, a prized goth succulent, comes with stunning fiery-red flowers that create a striking contrast with its dark foliage. Note, the color intensity of the leaves can change based on sun exposure.
- Scientific Name: Echeveria ‘Black Prince’
- Native To: Mexico
- Plant Type: Succulent
- Ease of Care: Moderate
8. Peperomia metallica
Peperomia metallica, also known as the Red Tree, has round, deep-green leaves with a silver streak running down the center, perfectly contrasting its red undersides.
- Scientific Name: Peperomia metallica
- Native To: Central and South America
- Plant Type: Perennial
- Ease of Care: Easy
9. Sinocrassula Yunnanensis
Rounding off our list is this rosette-forming succulent, which morphs into a miniature indoor jungle when it begins to flower. Its fuzzy, bluish-green leaves darken in sunlight, and during the fall and early winter, its rosettes elongate, ready to produce an impressive array of small, white flowers.
- Scientific Name: Sinocrassula Yunnanensis
- Native To: China
- Plant Type: Succulent
- Ease of Care: Moderate
Conclusion
If you’re seeking an interesting addition to your indoor garden, plants with black leaves could be just what you need. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a newbie, there’s a dark leaf plant for everyone. Enjoy these goth plants and succulents, and give your space a stylish edge with their unique dark allure.
And for a bit more contrast, try combining them with red-leaf houseplants or maybe… pink variegated plants?
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