The end of 2021 is here and we’re recapping a year full of our leafy favorites! Houseplants had another big year in 2021, with increased interest during the onset of the pandemic only continuing and the increased popularity of plants persisting! Houseplants make us happy, and there are so many reasons why we continue to surround ourselves with these living and growing additions to our homes and living spaces.

Our year-end review of your favorite Wild Interiors plants includes plants that began having their moment this past year and enduring varieties that continue to top plant popularity lists year after year. These varieties included in the Wild Interiors plant offering are some of the most popular houseplants of 2021 according to social media attention and our trend-watching and consumer reporting resources.

Most Popular Houseplants of 2021

Alocasia

Lately, alocasia has us all enthralled in the plant world, but what gives it that enchanting allure? Maybe it’s the striking contrast between its white venation and dark leaves; maybe it’s the beloved elephant ear shape; or, maybe it’s just the fact that everyone is seeking it out and we want it first. In any case, alocasia has our attention! While many varieties of Alocasia have been popular over the years, the Alocasia Polly has made an impact on the plant world this year. Because of its skeleton-like leaf venation and mysterious allure, we saw this plant’s popularity boost around Halloween as it became a favorite for spooky decorating. 

Begonia Maculata

Any plant adds just the right texture and interest to an interior space, but a patterned plant adds even more! Variegation, or the variation of colors on leaves, is something highly sought after in plants. Patterned plants continue to fascinate the plant community and the Begonia Maculata or Polka Dot Begonia is certainly that, fascinating! This stunner of a plant boasts wing-shaped leaves spotted with dramatic white dots against a dark green leaf with deep red undersides. Talk about a conversation plant piece! 

Calathea 

Speaking of patterned plants, you’d be hardpressed to find a plant family with a prettier collection of patterns amongst themselves than Calatheas. Calathea varieties have become very popular houseplants due to the beautiful designs and patterns present on their leaves. Calatheas are part of the Marantaceae family of tropical plants that open and close their leaves according to light levels. In the dark, they close their leaves, often showing a purplish-red leaf back. Each morning, they unfurl to reveal a unique pattern of shapes and colors. These plants have a rainbow of colors and unique variegation that ranges from spots to brushstrokes to lines. 

Philodendron Birkin

The philodendron family is a large one, with over 450 species of all shapes, sizes, and colors. Because of their easy care requirements, philodendrons make very popular and commonly owned houseplants. The new Philodendron Birkin variety is a stunner with variegation in the form of white/cream pinstripes against a dark green leaf background. Our followers love seeing those close-up shots of Birkin’s beautiful striping! The Birkin is a slow-growing variety, making it easily maintained as a houseplant (no need to repot that often).

Peperomia Raindrop

A plant as adorable as its name, the Peperomia Raindrop (Peperomia Polybotrya) showcases thick, glossy green leaves that are shaped like hearts. This plant is easy on the eyes and easy to care for, making it a favorite among plant owners this year! Its compact size (max growth of 12-15” tall) makes it appropriate for even the smallest spaces. Simply place this cutie in bright, indirect light and water occasionally when the soil has dried out (those fleshly leaves store moisture) and enjoy the uniqueness that is the Peperomia Raindrop!

Honorable Mentions

Here are a few other favorite Wild Interiors plants that peaked in (or continued) their popularity this year:

Phlebodium Aureum ‘Davana’

Aglaonema ‘King of Siam’

Syngonium 

Sanseveria

ZZ Plants

Which houseplants topped your list in 2021? Tell us @wild_interiors on Instagram.