The Lush World of African House Plants: A Comprehensive Care Guide

Last Updated on June 24, 2023 by Derek

Discover the beauty of African house plants! From the vibrant Zebra Plant to the elegant Snake Plant, African houseplants bring a touch of exotic flair to your home. These low-maintenance beauties thrive in diverse conditions and provide natural air purification. Explore our top picks and bring a piece of Africa indoors.

West African plants for the house

Are you looking for unique, exotic house plants to fill your home with a touch of West African flair? Look no further than the stunning array of greenery that can be found across the region. From towering palm trees to delicate vines, there is something for every taste and every home.

One of my personal favorites is the Aloe vera plant. Not only does it have a striking appearance with its spiky leaves and vibrant green color, but it also has numerous health benefits.

Aloe vera has been used for centuries in traditional West African medicine to treat everything from skin conditions to digestive problems. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to care for – just give it plenty of sunlight and water sparingly.

Aloe vera Growing Conditions

Plant Common Name	Scientific Name	US Growing Zone	Hardy/Perennial	Soil Type	Sunshine Requirements	Water Needs
Aloe vera	Aloe barbadensis	9-11	Hardy	Sandy, well-draining	Full sun to partial shade	Low water requirements

Another great choice is the Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata), which is known for its resilience and ability to thrive in low light conditions. This makes it a perfect addition to any room in your home where natural light may be scarce.

Plus, its striking vertical leaves add an interesting texture to any space. If you’re looking for something more colorful, consider the Croton (Codiaeum variegatum).

Sansevieria trifasciata Growing Conditions

Plant Common Name	Scientific Name	US Growing Zone	Hardy/Perennial	Soil Type	Sunshine Requirements	Water Needs
Snake Plant	Sansevieria trifasciata	10-11	Hardy	Well-draining	Low to bright indirect light	Low to moderate watering

This plant features bright, tropical foliage that ranges from yellow and orange to red and green. It’s sure to add a pop of color and interest wherever you place it in your home.

Overall, West African houseplants offer not only aesthetic beauty but also functional benefits such as purifying air quality or providing medicinal value. So why settle for boring mainstream plants when you can bring some exotic flair into your life with these amazing options?

More tropical African plants

When it comes to tropical African plants, there are a plethora of options to choose from. These plants are characterized by their lush foliage and bright colors, making them a great addition to any home. Here are some of my personal favorites:

First up is the Bird of Paradise plant, also known as Strelitzia reginae. This stunning plant is native to South Africa and features large leaves that resemble those of a banana tree.

However, what really sets this plant apart is its flowers – bright orange and blue blooms that look like the head of a colorful bird. While it can be somewhat difficult to care for, with proper attention this unique plant will reward you with an eye-catching display.

Bird of Paradise Growing Conditions

Plant Common Name	Scientific Name	US Growing Zone	Hardy/Perennial	Soil Type	Sunshine Requirements	Water Needs
Bird of Paradise	Strelitzia reginae	9-11	Hardy	Well-draining	Full sun to partial shade	Moderate watering

Another tropical African plant worth considering is the Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata). This popular houseplant has recently taken the interior design world by storm thanks to its large, violin-shaped leaves that can grow up to 18 inches long.

It prefers bright but indirect light and moist soil – not too wet or too dry – so make sure you find it an appropriate spot in your home. I cannot talk about tropical African plants without mentioning the Madagascar Dragon Tree (Dracaena marginata).

Fiddle Leaf Fig Growing Conditions

Plant Common Name	Scientific Name	US Growing Zone	Hardy/Perennial	Soil Type	Sunshine Requirements	Water Needs
Fiddle Leaf Fig	Ficus lyrata	10-11	Not hardy, usually grown as a houseplant	Well-draining, rich soil	Bright, indirect light	Moderate watering

Don’t let its name scare you – this is actually a very easy-care houseplant that requires little attention beyond occasional watering and fertilizing. Its slender stems and spiky leaves come in a variety of colors ranging from dark green to pinkish-red, making it an interesting addition to any décor scheme.

If you’re looking for some exotic beauty in your home, these tropical African plants are definitely worth checking out. Just remember that while they may look stunning, they do require specific care instructions in order to thrive – so make sure you do your research before bringing one home!

African Violet houseplant care

Ah, African Violets. The darling of the houseplant world.

They’re cute, compact, and covered in charming little flowers. But don’t be fooled by their innocent appearance – these little guys require some serious TLC.

First things first: lighting. African Violets are notorious for being picky about their light source.

They need bright but indirect light to thrive, which can be a difficult balance to strike in many homes. If you’re struggling to find the right spot for your African Violet, consider investing in a grow light to give it the perfect amount of illumination.

African Violets Growing Conditions

Plant Common Name	Scientific Name	US Growing Zone	Hardy/Perennial	Soil Type	Sunshine Requirements	Water Needs
African Violets	Saintpaulia	11-12	Perennial	Well-draining, slightly acidic	Indirect sunlight or bright, filtered light	Regular watering, keep soil moist

Next up: watering. Here’s where things get really tricky.

Overwatering an African Violet is just as deadly as underwatering it, so finding the sweet spot can be a real challenge. My advice?

Get yourself a moisture meter (they’re cheap and easy to find online) and use it religiously until you get a feel for your plant’s needs. Let’s talk about fertilizer.

I know that many people swear by using special African Violet fertilizers, but honestly? I think they’re a waste of money.

Any good-quality indoor plant fertilizer will do just fine – just make sure not to overdo it or you’ll end up with burned leaves. If you’re looking for an easy-care houseplant that requires minimal effort on your part… well, sorry folks, but African Violets ain’t it.

But if you’re willing to put in the time and effort required to keep these finicky little plants happy and healthy? Trust me – they’re totally worth it!

List of plants in Africa a-z

Aloe vera
Acacia karroo
Baobab tree
Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)
Cabbage tree (Cussonia spicata)
Cape honeysuckle (Tecoma capensis)
Desert rose (Adenium obesum)
Devil’s claw (Harpagophytum procumbens)
Elephant’s ear (Colocasia esculenta)
Erythrina lysistemon
Fire lily (Cyrtanthus spp.)
Fan aloe (Kumara plicatilis)
Giant protea (Protea cynaroides)
Geissorhiza radians
Hoodia (Hoodia gordonii)
Hottentot fig (Carpobrotus edulis)
Impala Lily (Adenium multiflorum)
Inyangani Blue (Agapanthus inapertus)
Jackalberry tree (Diospyros mespiliformis)
Jade vine (Strongylodon macrobotrys)
Kaffir lily (Clivia miniata)
Kniphofia uvaria
Lion’s tail (Leonotis leonurus)
Living stone (Lithops spp.)
Marula tree (Sclerocarya birrea)
Monkey puzzle tree (Araucaria araucana)
Natal plum (Carissa macrocarpa)
Namaqua daisy (Osteospermum ecklonis)
Oil palm (Elaeis guineensis)
Orchid tree (Bauhinia spp.)
Pride of Barbados (Caesalpinia pulcherrima)
Protea repens
Quiver tree (Aloe dichotoma)
Quinine tree (Rauvolfia caffra)
Red hot poker (Kniphofia spp.)
River indigo (Indigofera spp.)
Sausage tree (Kigelia africana)
Strelitzia reginae
Tamboti tree (Spirostachys africana)
Tree fern (Cyathea spp.)
Umbrella thorn acacia (Vachellia tortilis)
Usnea lichen (Usnea spp.)
Velvet tamarind (Dialium spp.)
Voodoo lily (Dracunculus vulgaris)
Wild dagga (Leonotis leonurus)
Waratah (Telopea spp.)
Yellowwood tree (Podocarpus spp.)
Yucca filamentosa
Zambezi cycad (Encephalartos barteri)
Zebra plant (Aphelandra squarrosa)

When it comes to listing the plants in Africa, there is a lot to cover. Africa is home to a vast array of flora and fauna that are unique and diverse.

From the rainforests of central Africa to the deserts in the north, African plants have adapted to their environments and developed unique characteristics that make them stand out. Starting with A, we have Aloe vera.

This succulent plant has been used for thousands of years for its medicinal properties. It is native to Africa but has been introduced to other parts of the world as well.

The gel from its leaves can be used for a variety of purposes such as soothing sunburns and treating acne.

Moving on to B, we have Baobab trees.

These iconic trees are found throughout Africa and are instantly recognizable with their massive trunks that can grow up to 11 meters in diameter. The Baobab tree is known as the “tree of life” because it can store large amounts of water inside its trunk during dry periods which help it survive through droughts.

Baobab Growing Conditions

Plant Common Name	Scientific Name	US Growing Zone	Hardy/Perennial	Soil Type	Sunshine Requirements	Water Needs
Baobab	Adansonia	10-12	Hardy	Sandy, well-draining	Full sun	Low water requirements

Next up, C stands for Cape Gooseberry – also known as Physalis peruviana – which is a small orange fruit native to South America but commonly found in African markets today.

Its berry-like appearance with papery husks makes this fruit easy-to-store and transportable crop with benefits ranging from supporting eye health due to high levels of Vitamin A, among others.

Cape Gooseberry Growing Conditions

Plant Common Name	Scientific Name	US Growing Zone	Hardy/Perennial	Soil Type	Sunshine Requirements	Water Needs
Cape Gooseberry	Physalis peruviana	8-11	Hardy	Well-draining	Full sun to partial shade	Regular watering

The diversity among African plants is truly remarkable, with each species possessing unique characteristics that make them valuable additions to any collection or garden. From succulents like Aloe vera, iconic trees like Baobabs, and fruits like Cape Gooseberry; there’s plenty here for everyone!

African indigenous indoor plants

These plants are not only beautiful but also have a rich history and cultural significance. Here are three African indigenous indoor plants that deserve more attention:

First on the list is the Impala Lily (Adenium obesum). Commonly known as “Desert Rose“, this plant has thick, fleshy stems and produces stunning pink, red or white flowers.

It grows best in well-draining soil and thrives in hot and dry climates – making it a perfect plant for those who live in areas with low humidity. In addition to its beauty, the Impala Lily also has medicinal uses in traditional African medicine.

Impala Lily Growing Conditions

Plant Common Name	Scientific Name	US Growing Zone	Hardy/Perennial	Soil Type	Sunshine Requirements	Water Needs
Impala Lily	Adenium obesum	10-11	Hardy	Well-draining	Full sun	Low water

Next up is the Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata). Also known as “Mother-in-law’s Tongue”, this hardy plant is native to West Africa and can survive even if you neglect it for weeks at a time.

Its leaves are long, pointed, and grow upright – making it an ideal choice for those who want tall indoor plants without taking up too much space. The Snake Plant has air-purifying qualities that make it great for homes with poor air quality.

Snake Plant Growing Conditions

Plant Common Name	Scientific Name	US Growing Zone	Hardy/Perennial	Soil Type	Sunshine Requirements	Water Needs
Snake Plant	Sansevieria trifasciata	10-12	Hardy	Well-draining	Low to bright indirect light	Low watering

We have the Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia milii). This plant has spiky stems covered in bright red or pink flowers that bloom almost year-round when given proper care.

It can tolerate drought conditions but needs to be kept away from direct sunlight during peak afternoon hours. The Crown of Thorns has religious significance to many Africans due to its resemblance to Jesus’ crown during his crucifixion.

Crown of Thorns Growing Conditions

Plant Common Name	Scientific Name	US Growing Zone	Hardy/Perennial	Soil Type	Sunshine Requirements	Water Needs
Crown of Thorns	Euphorbia milii	9-11	Hardy	Well-draining	Full sun to partial shade	Low watering

There are numerous African indigenous indoor plants that can add beauty and cultural significance to your home or workspace. By choosing these types of plants over more common houseplants, you’re supporting diversity not only in your garden but also acknowledging the rich history of African flora – something we should all appreciate more.

African mask plant care

The African Mask Plant, also known as the Alocasia Polly, is a gorgeous addition to any home. However, it can be a bit finicky and requires some extra attention to thrive.

Here are some tips for caring for your African Mask Plant. First and foremost, make sure you place your plant in a spot with bright, indirect light.

Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and cause damage. Additionally, the African Mask Plant prefers higher humidity levels.

You can achieve this by placing a humidifier near your plant or by regularly misting it with water. When it comes to watering your African Mask Plant, it’s important not to overdo it.

These plants prefer moist soil but can be susceptible to root rot if they sit in waterlogged soil for too long. Make sure you allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.

Keep in mind that the leaves of the African Mask Plant are sensitive and can easily become damaged if bumped or brushed against. If you notice any brown spots or other damage on your plant’s leaves, trim them off with clean scissors.

African Mask Plant Growing Conditions

Plant Common Name	Scientific Name	US Growing Zone	Hardy/Perennial	Soil Type	Sunshine Requirements	Water Needs
African Mask Plant	Alocasia amazonica	9-11	Perennial	Well-draining	Partial shade to shade	Moderate watering

The African Mask Plant may require some extra attention but is well worth it for its stunning appearance. With these care tips in mind, you’ll be able to keep your plant thriving for years to come!

House plants native to Ethiopia

When you think of Ethiopia, you might picture stunning landscapes, bustling cities, and delicious coffee. But did you know that Ethiopia is also home to some unique and beautiful house plants?

Here are a few of my favorites: First on the list is the Abyssinian Banana Plant.

This exotic plant, also known as Ensete ventricosum, is native to Ethiopia and grown for its large leaves that resemble those of a banana tree. It’s definitely not your average house plant but if you have a spacious room with high ceilings and bright light, this plant could be the perfect statement piece.

Plus, it’s drought tolerant so it won’t require too much attention. Next up is the Ethiopian Cabbage Plant, also known as Brassica carinata.

This leafy green vegetable is traditionally grown for food in Ethiopia but it can also make a unique addition to your indoor garden. It’s easy to care for and grows quickly so you can enjoy fresh greens year-round without having to step outside.

Abyssinian Banana Plant Growing Conditions

Plant Common Name	Scientific Name	US Growing Zone	Hardy/Perennial	Soil Type	Sunshine Requirements	Water Needs
Abyssinian Banana Plant	Ensete ventricosum	9-11	Hardy	Well-draining	Full sun to partial shade	Regular watering

Last but not least is the Abyssinian Gladiolus or Gladiolus callianthus ‘Murielae’. This beautiful flower produces fragrant white blooms with dark centers that last for several weeks at a time.

It makes a great cut flower for bouquets or can be left in its pot as an elegant centerpiece on your dining table. Don’t overlook plants native to Ethiopia when considering new additions to your indoor garden.

Abyssinian Gladiolus Growing Conditions

Plant Common Name	Scientific Name	US Growing Zone	Hardy/Perennial	Soil Type	Sunshine Requirements	Water Needs
Abyssinian Gladiolus	Gladiolus callianthus	7-10	Hardy	Well-draining	Full sun	Regular watering

These unique plants are not only beautiful but they also bring a touch of culture and history into your home. With the right care and environment, they can thrive indoors all year long.

What are the common plants in Africa?

As an expert on African house plants, I am constantly asked about the most common plants found in Africa. It’s a fair question, but the answer is not as straightforward as one may think. Africa is home to an incredibly diverse array of plant species, many of which are found nowhere else on earth.

However, there are a few standout species that have become synonymous with the continent. One such plant is the Baobab tree (Adansonia digitata), also known as the “Tree of Life”.

This iconic tree can be found throughout much of Africa and has been revered by locals for centuries due to its large size and unique appearance. The Baobab’s thick trunk and branches give it a distinct silhouette that is instantly recognizable. The tree’s leaves, fruit, and bark are all used for various medicinal purposes.

Another common plant found throughout Africa is the Acacia tree (Acacia spp.).

While there are over 1,000 different species of Acacia worldwide, several variants can be seen in African landscapes.

Known for their thorny branches and distinctive flat-topped crowns, Acacias have adapted to survive in harsh environments with limited water resources. This makes them a popular choice for reforestation projects across the continent.

Acacia Tree Growing Conditions

Plant Common Name	Scientific Name	US Growing Zone	Hardy/Perennial	Soil Type	Sunshine Requirements	Water Needs
Acacia Tree	Acacia spp.	7-11	Hardy	Well-draining	Full sun	Low to moderate watering

No discussion of common African plants would be complete without mentioning Aloes (Aloe spp.).

These succulent perennials can be found throughout much of Africa and are commonly grown as ornamental houseplants worldwide due to their striking appearance and ease of care. Aloes come in a range of shapes and sizes with varying levels of hardiness depending on the species.

Aloes Growing Conditions

Plant Common Name	Scientific Name	US Growing Zone	Hardy/Perennial	Soil Type	Sunshine Requirements	Water Needs
Aloes	Aloe vera	9-11	Hardy	Well-draining	Full sun	Low water

While there are countless species of plants that call Africa home, these three stand out as some of the most iconic and easily recognized by people across the globe. Whether you’re interested in their medicinal properties or simply enjoy their aesthetic appeal, it’s clear that these plants will continue to capture our imaginations for generations to come.

Medicinal Properties of Plants

Plant	Medicinal Properties
Aloe Vera	Anti-inflammatory Antibacterial Wound healing Skin rejuvenation Digestive aid
Acacia	Antiseptic Antidiarrheal Anti-inflammatory Antioxidant Expectorant
Boab Tree	Antioxidant Anti-inflammatory Antimicrobial Immune booster Anti-aging

What plant is unique to Africa?

When it comes to unique plants, Africa has plenty of them. One of the most unique plants that is only found in Africa is the baobab tree.

This tree has a massive trunk and can reach up to 80 feet tall. It’s a very iconic plant in Africa, and it’s even been called “the upside-down tree” because its branches look like roots.

Another unique plant that can only be found in Africa is the Sansevieria cylindrica, also known as the African spear or cylindrical snake plant. This plant has long, cylindrical leaves that grow upwards, making it look like an actual spear.

Sansevieria cylindrica Growing Conditions

Plant Common Name	Scientific Name	US Growing Zone	Hardy/Perennial	Soil Type	Sunshine Requirements	Water Needs
Sansevieria cylindrica	Sansevieria cylindrica	10-12	Hardy	Well-draining	Partial shade to full sun	Low water requirements

Not only does it look great as a decorative piece in your home, but it’s also incredibly easy to care for.

The last unique plant I want to touch on is the Aloe vera plant.

While Aloe vera can technically grow anywhere with warm temperatures, it’s believed that its origins are from Northern Africa. Aloe vera is world-renowned for its healing properties and has been used for centuries to treat burns and other skin irritations.

It’s also very easy to grow indoors and requires minimal attention. Overall, Africa has many unique plants that are not found anywhere else in the world.

The baobab tree, Sansevieria cylindrica, and Aloe vera are just a few examples of these amazing plants. Adding any one of these plants to your home will not only add some uniqueness but will also bring some African charm into your living space!

What is the African low light plant?

When it comes to houseplants, many people find themselves struggling to keep their green friends alive due to a lack of light. But fear not, for Africa has a solution for all of your low-light woes. The African low light plant is a godsend for those who live in darker spaces, but still want to add some greenery and life to their home.

One of the most popular low-light African plants is the ZZ plant, also known as Zamioculcas zamiifolia. This plant can go for long periods without water and can tolerate low light conditions, making it perfect for those who often forget to water their plants or have limited sunlight in their living space.

Myrtus Growing Conditions

Plant Common Name	Scientific Name	US Growing Zone	Hardy/Perennial	Soil Type	Sunshine Requirements	Water Needs
Zamioculcas zamiifolia	Zamioculcas zamiifolia	9-11	Hardy	Well-draining	Low to moderate light	Low watering

The ZZ plant also has glossy leaves that give it a sleek and modern look, adding an elegant touch to any room.

Another great option is the snake plant or Sansevieria trifasciata.

Commonly referred to as “Mother-in-law’s tongue,” this African native requires very little attention and can survive in almost any lighting condition. In fact, too much sunlight can actually harm this sturdy species.

Plus, the snake plant is known for its air-purifying abilities – making it not only visually appealing but also beneficial for your health.

Last but certainly not least is the Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum).

This beautiful indoor flower blooms throughout the year with minimal care required from its owner. Native to tropical regions such as Africa and America’s subtropical regions, this stunning indoor potted variety thrives in both low and medium indirect light making them ideal specimens for poorly lit homes or offices.

Peace Lily Growing Conditions

Plant Common Name	Scientific Name	US Growing Zone	Hardy/Perennial	Soil Type	Sunshine Requirements	Water Needs
Peace Lily	Spathiphyllum spp.	10-11	Perennial	Well-draining	Indirect sunlight to shade	Moderate watering

Whether you’re looking for something sleek and modern like the ZZ plant or something with air-purifying abilities like the snake plant – there’s an African low light plant out there that will fit perfectly into your living space without demanding too much of your time or attention.

By bringing one of these hardy species into your home, you’re sure to add some life and brightness to your space – even in the darkest corners.

What is the most popular plant in Africa?

Ah, the age-old question of which plant reigns supreme in Africa. Well, after much research and personal experience, I can confidently say that the answer is none other than…the Aloe Vera plant.

Yes, you read that correctly. Aloe Vera may seem like a simple succulent to some, but it holds a special place in African culture and has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries.

The gel inside the leaves has healing properties that treat burns, cuts, and even digestive issues. It’s no wonder that it’s so widely used and adored.

Not only is Aloe Vera practical for its medicinal uses, but it also adds a touch of natural beauty to any space it’s placed in. Its long green leaves with white “teeth” lining the edges give off a unique aesthetic that can’t be found in any other plant.

Plus, it’s relatively easy to care for and can thrive even in harsh conditions – perfect for Africa’s climate. Now some of you may be thinking “But what about the Baobab tree? It’s an iconic symbol of African wildlife!” Yes, while Baobab trees are certainly impressive and important to African culture, they’re not exactly practical as houseplants.

Plus, let’s face it – how many people do you know who have a Baobab tree sitting in their living room? While there may be other plants out there that hold significance and beauty within African culture and wildlife, none can quite match up to the versatility and practicality of the beloved Aloe Vera plant.

Conclusion

After exploring the vast and diverse world of African house plants, it’s clear that these plants are not only beautiful but also have unique characteristics that make them stand out from other houseplants. From the African Violet with its stunning purple flowers to the African Mask Plant with its striking leaves, we’ve learned about a range of plants that thrive indoors. But as with any plant, caring for African houseplants requires knowledge and effort.

It’s important to research each plant’s specific needs and provide them with proper care such as light exposure, temperature, watering schedule, and soil type. Neglecting these factors will result in an unhealthy plant and a disappointing outcome.

It’s also important to note the environmental benefits of indoor plants. They improve air quality by removing toxins and emit oxygen into the air.

Not to mention they can enhance our mood and mental well-being by providing natural beauty within our homes. Incorporating African houseplants into your home can bring a unique touch of nature indoors while also offering numerous environmental benefits.

With proper care and attention, these plants can thrive in any home environment. Let’s embrace the beauty of Africa through our indoor greenery!