10 Unconventional Plants for a Sunny Window
A bright sunny window might sound like a dream, but plant parents will quickly learn that the summer sun can be hard to work with! Succulents and Cacti are the best options for your South and West-facing windows, but not everyone wants desert vibes. However, the direct light can be a little harsh for most tropical plants. Scorched foliage and wilting leaves aren't the aim here, so let's talk through some unconventional options that will thrive in your south and west-facing windows.
1.Hoya Wayetti
Hoya are one of the most underrated genus of houseplants. Easy-care, flowering, and tolerant of most light conditions, Hoya can either trail or vine up a trellis. Hoya Wayetti, in particular, will 'sunburn' and go slightly pink with direct sun.
2. Strelizia Nicolai (Bird of Paradise)
For a more leafy look, Bird of Paradise are a great option. This behemoth of a plant can grow up to 30 feet in the wild, though its domestic counterpart will be limited in size by your container of choice. Fun fact: their name comes from the beautiful white and purple flowers they produce.
3. Aloe Vera
Prized for it's medicinal properties, Aloe Vera are plants that will struggle to grow anywhere except for your sunny windowsill. In a lower light, these plants are prone to throwing fits; but give them the right conditions and they're easy as pie!
4. Ficus Elastica (Rubber Fig Tree)
Ficus Elastica come in a few different colours, each one as beautiful as the last. Ficus in general can be a little temperamental about changes, but Elastica is the easiest of the family. Another large species, Ficus Elastica are a great statement plant for that sunny spot.
5. Dionaea Muscipula (Venus Fly Trap)
I think everyone's killed a Venus Fly Trap in their time- generally after buying one on a whim with no idea how to look after them. But the big trick with Venus Fly Traps, and other carnivorous house plants, is full sun. Provide them with that bright light along with plenty of rainwater, and they'll live happily enough to deal with your gnat problems!
6. Rhipsalis Boliviana
Another underated genus, Rhipsalis are commonly known as mistletoe cacti. They aren't always recommended for direct light, but we've found they can adapt really well if aclimatised properly. Small, delicate flowers may alslo form if they're happy.
7. Tillandsia (Air Plants)
Tillandsia are weird plants- we often get asked if they are even real! They don't grow in soil, instead living on the side of trees and surviving off light and humidity in the wild. In a home you will need to water, which can be done by soaking or spraying. We like to display ours as jellyfish with uchin shells.
8. Oxalis Triangularis (False Shamrock)
With deep purple leaves and a tendency to move with the day cycle, oxalis are a fan-favourite. They can be kept outside in the warmer months as long as it stays above 5˚C. They can also be very dramatic, letting you know when they need a drink by drooping.
9. Codiaeum (Croton)
We won't lie to you, Croton can be difficult. Their stunning green and gold foliage makes them well worth it though! If you want to give one a go then pop them in that bright light, keep the soil from drying out too much, and avoid draughts.
10. Sophora Prostrata (Little Baby)
Who doesn't want indoor shrub vibes? Sophora can be grown indoors or outdoors as long as they have bright light and aren't left to dry out for too long at a time. If you want to try something new then these are also a great candidate for bonsai-ing.
Final Notes:
Lots of plants will be happy in South and West-facing windows in the darker months. Come Summer however, you will find tropicals becoming scorched. Some plants which are generally happy with bright-indirect light can aclimatise to direct light if given enough time; alocasia, epiphyllums, and tradescantia are good examples of this.