Flowering plants are fabulous living decorations that compliment the interiors of your home or office. They not only look nice; many also serve the practical function of cleaning the air. Although the majority of plants do flower, what florists call “flowering plants” boast larger blooms that are showier and perhaps more colourful as well.

Flowering plants typically require plenty of light and higher levels of humidity, however this really varies depending on the variety. There are thousands of varieties, ranging from those that are native to Canada to those that are imported from far and exotic places. We generally group them into the following categories:

Amaryllis (Amaryllidaceae)

A relative of the lily family,  flowering plants that fall into this category include Amaryllis and Kaffir lily. All begin as bulbs or corms. They make pretty houseplants that thrive in cooler temperatures well away from direct sunlight.

Begonia (Begoniaceae)

Native to South America, plants in the Begonia category vary greatly in size and shape. They thrive in humid, cooler spots that are bright and out of direct sunlight.

Bromeliad (Bromeliaceae)

Popular these days, Bromeliads are exotic flowering plants that are incredibly hardy, making them the perfect plant for those without a green thumb. Their blooms, comprised of modified leaves rather than actual petals, are unique.

Cactus (Cactaceae) and Succulents

Cactus and succulent plants produce some of the most unexpectedly pretty flowers. It’s a great contrast! The most popular flowering plant in this category is the Christmas Cactus, with their pretty petals in vibrant colours.

Euphorbia (Euphorbiaceae)

From succulents to poinsettias, the Euphorbia category all share the same trait: sticky white sap that can be irritating to the skin.

Gesneriad (Gesneriaceae)

The majority of plants in this category originate in Africa and South America. It includes one of the most popular houseplants and a fixture in many indoor and outdoor gardens, the African Violet.

Ginger (Zingiberaceae)

Originating in Malaysia and India, the Ginger category of flowering houseplants are as exotic and tropical as you can get. They are tall and elegant, with interesting blooms in dazzling colours.

Orchid (Orchidaceae)

And for the unofficial Queen of Flowering Plants: Orchids! Although orchids grow just about everywhere around the world (excluding Antarctica), they are still perceived as somewhat difficult plants to grow at home. Unfortunately, this is a reputation based on fallacy.Just give them the right amount of water in the right environment, and they’ll honour you with blooms every year.

The sparse and clean interiors of modern design are no place for potted plants with bushy tops that grow untamed. Such plants may be perceived as too wild and tacky for the minimalism of modern surroundings, which demand something far more simplistic and sleek.

The essence of minimalist interiors is governed by functionality, and plants do serve a function. Their practical purpose is to provide an element of “green” indoors, cleansing the air and allowing a more comfortable atmosphere in which a home’s habitants can thrive. However, most traditional houseplants are an affront to the aesthetic.

Forget potted plants with frilly flowers reminiscent of  cluttered country homes and generic greens with leafy fronds that only collect dust. There is no houseplant that is better suited to modern interiors than bamboo.

Decorative Bamboo Plants

Bamboo plants are native to the tropical regions of Asia. With an overall  slender shape and vibrant green colour, the plant is quite elegant and is therefore perfect for minimalist interiors that require a breath of life, without the nonsense of excess. You’ll also find that the containers the bamboo plants are set in by your Toronto florist match the elegance of the plant itself, making re-potting unnecessary.

Bamboo enjoy sunnier and warmer spots, so remember to keep them warm in the winter. Although they can grow quite tall, its height is restricted when potted. This is fortunate, as it won’t become a nuisance in the long run.

Bamboo symbolizes strength, longevity and flexibility. Although a common feature in homes with an Oriental flair, it has become a popular houseplant for all those who appreciate its admirable qualities.