The genus Calathea includes some of the most beautiful and striking tropical foliage plants in the world. Calathea species generally have boldly marked, upright, oblong leaves in a dazzling array of colors held on long, upright stalks. Because of the plant’s bold markings, it goes by nicknames such as zebra plant, peacock plant, and rattlesnake plant, that reflect that. It is closely related to the similarly gorgeous Maranta. 

Despite the creepy-crawly name, the spider plant is among the most popular and easiest to grow of all hanging or trailing houseplants. While these exceptionally hardy plants will survive in less than perfect conditions, in perfect conditions they are stunning. A mature plant will form tight rosettes of arching leaves with a profusion of hanging plantlets on long stems, up to three feet, somewhat like a bushy green mane. Although there is a pure green variety, the most common variety seen in garden centers in the green-and-white striped ‘Variegatum.’ Mature plants have small white flowers.

The aglaonema (also called Chinese evergreen) is a highly decorative plant with several interesting varieties. It is one of the most popular houseplants and the color variations—from dark green to silver, and some with hints of red—can really add to your home’s decor.

Variegated Bleeding Heart Vine

A tropical vine that can grow to 10’ but usually more compact with a showy cream variegation in the broad green foliage. The leaves are thin, unlike some clerodendrons. which have thick fuzzy leaves. The inflorescence form as short racemes of white flowers with little red hearts that come in the spring and summer.