Why have certain plants developed patterning on their leaves? There is no clear scientific explanation, but researchers’ best guess relates to the plant’s native habitat. Usually, bright patterning develops in biology as a form of communication to other organisms such as insects and animals. For example, bees are able to see different colors that attract them to the center of specific flowers where the greatest cache of pollen is located. Patterning and coloring in nature can attract or shout “beware!” It’s an interesting study for sure, but we’re attracted to patterned plants for another reason altogether--style.

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. Some of our favorite trending plants have unique variegation that can make them look unreal. Calathea, rex begonia, zebra plant and Chinese evergreen are just a few houseplants that rock the variegation.

Calathea

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 patches to lines. Some species’ leaves remind us of a Rorschach inkblot test because of the symmetric patterning down the leaves. What do you see when you look at a calathea leaf?

Rex Begonia

Rex begonias are becoming all the fashion because they are quite collectible! While they have been around for decades, rex begonias are newly appreciated for their unique leaf patterns and shapes. If you are into quirky and retro mid-century modern decor, this plant is for you!

Zebra Plant

Zebra plant (a.k.a. Tradescantia zebrina) is the penultimate patterned houseplant because of its purple and white striped leaves. The patterning almost looks like it has been stroked on by a paint brush! This plant is the perfect patterned plant to add to your home decor because it brings a pop of color and doesn’t mind low light levels. In fact, the patterning fades in too much light! It may stretch in light conditions that are too low, but it provides a sprawling look that does well hanging from a plant hanger or shelf.

Chinese Evergreen

For a more traditional patterned plant that doesn’t get too wild, try Chinese evergreen (a.k.a. Aglaonema species). They’ve been around the block once or twice, but they are a houseplant staple. If you’re into the pink plant fad, there are quite a few Chinese evergreens that offer a solution! They are perfect for the corner of the dark living room because they handle low light levels and bring interesting variegation options into the mix.

Notes on Care

The rainbow of colors that appear in interior plants can fade with low light levels or inconsistent care, so it’s important to pay attention to the new growth on your patterned plant to ensure that the plant is happy with its care and light levels. If you see new leaves that fill in with less patterning, you may try moving the plant nearer to a light source (unless it’s a zebra plant of course).

Try spicing up your interior with one or two or ten of these patterned plants to enjoy more color in your home over dreary winter months.