Complete Gardening
If you’ve ever stepped into a kitchen and immediately felt its warmth and charm, you likely noticed how the right decor can transform the entire vibe of the room.
One of the easiest ways to breathe life into a kitchen is by incorporating plants. But it’s not just about plopping any old plant on a windowsill.
Choosing the right plants that fit both your aesthetic and the natural lighting of your kitchen can make all the difference.
Ready to give your kitchen a little refresh? Let’s dive into 17 of the best plants for kitchen decor.
1. Pothos
A favorite for many, pothos is a no-fuss plant that thrives on neglect, making it perfect for busy kitchens.
With its trailing vines, pothos adds a touch of elegance when placed on top of cabinets or in hanging planters. Plus, it’s great for low-light kitchens, so even if you don’t have the brightest space, this beauty will still thrive.
Care Tips:
Light: Low to bright, indirect light.
Water: Let the soil dry out between waterings.
Bonus: It purifies the air!
2. Herbs (Basil, Thyme, and Rosemary)
What could be better than cooking with fresh herbs that are right within reach? Basil, thyme, and rosemary are not only fragrant and practical, but they also look adorable sitting in small pots along your windowsill.
They bring a functional yet beautiful touch to your kitchen, providing fresh ingredients while also giving that farmhouse feel the most of us love so much.
Care Tips:
Light: Full sunlight (at least 6 hours a day).
Water: Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Bonus: Clip and use them in your favorite recipes!
3. Snake Plant
If you’re looking for a sleek, modern touch, the snake plant is for you. This upright beauty fits perfectly in minimalistic kitchens with clean lines, but it can also blend seamlessly with rustic decor.
Its striking, architectural leaves create a focal point wherever it’s placed, making it perfect for countertops or corners that need a little love.
Care Tips:
Light: Low to bright, indirect light.
Water: Water when the soil is completely dry.
Bonus: It’s almost impossible to kill!
4. Succulents
For those who love tiny, adorable touches, succulents are the way to go. Group several varieties together for an effortless look, or dot them around the kitchen for pops of green.
Succulents come in a variety of shapes and textures, and they’re super easy to care for. You can use them as accents on floating shelves or as centerpieces on kitchen tables.
Care Tips:
Light: Bright, indirect light.
Water: Let the soil dry completely between waterings.
Bonus: Great for small spaces!
5. ZZ Plant
The ZZ plant is perfect if you’re looking for something low-maintenance but still stylish. Its shiny, waxy leaves reflect light, giving your kitchen a polished look.
This plant does exceptionally well in low light, so even if your kitchen isn’t blessed with tons of sunlight, the ZZ plant will happily thrive.
Care Tips:
Light: Low to moderate, indirect light.
Water: Let the soil dry out between waterings.
Bonus: It’s drought-tolerant!
6. Aloe Vera
Not only is aloe vera an excellent plant for decor, but it’s also a natural remedy for burns, making it a practical addition to your kitchen.
Its spiky leaves bring a bit of texture and interest to your space. Pair it with a cute terra cotta pot for a classic, earthy look.
Care Tips:
Light: Bright, indirect sunlight.
Water: Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry between waterings.
Bonus: Use the gel for soothing minor burns and cuts!
7. Spider Plant
Spider plants are making a serious comeback, and we can see why! Their long, arching leaves are perfect for adding softness to hard kitchen surfaces like countertops and open shelving.
Spider plants are also known for their air-purifying qualities, which is always a plus in the heart of your home.
Care Tips:
Light: Bright, indirect light.
Water: Water when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Bonus: They produce “baby” spider plants that you can propagate!
8. Philodendron
If you’re a fan of trailing plants, the philodendron is a great option for adding some drama to your kitchen.
Its heart-shaped leaves and lush growth make it ideal for hanging baskets or letting it cascade down from a high shelf. Plus, it’s super forgiving, even if you occasionally forget to water it.
Care Tips:
Light: Low to bright, indirect light.
Water: Keep the soil lightly moist, but don’t let it sit in water.
Bonus: It’s a quick grower!
9. Mint
Mint is another herb that not only looks good in your kitchen but also provides practical benefits.
Its bright green leaves add a fresh pop of color, and the scent is uplifting. You can place mint in a pot on your windowsill and clip it for teas, salads, and desserts whenever you need!
Care Tips:
Light: Full sunlight.
Water: Keep the soil consistently moist.
Bonus: It grows quickly, so you’ll always have a fresh supply!
10. Orchids
Orchids may seem like a bit of a fancy choice for the kitchen, but their elegant blooms can add a touch of refinement and beauty to your decor.
Choose a simple white orchid for a clean, crisp look, or opt for a colorful variety to brighten up your space.
Care Tips:
Light: Bright, indirect light.
Water: Water every week or so, but make sure the roots aren’t sitting in water.
Bonus: They bloom for weeks at a time!
11. Lemon Tree
For those with a little more space (and ambition), a dwarf lemon tree can make a striking statement in your kitchen. Not only do these trees look gorgeous, but they’ll also give you fresh lemons—talk about functional decor!
Place it near a sunny window, and you’ll have a constant reminder of sunny days.
Care Tips:
Light: Full sunlight.
Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Bonus: You’ll get fragrant blossoms and fresh fruit!
12. Calathea
Calathea is known for its stunning, patterned leaves. If you’re looking for a plant that adds a little more visual interest to your kitchen, this one is for you.
The intricate designs on the leaves make it stand out, even in the simplest of spaces. These types of plants add a layer of texture and depth to your kitchen design.
Care Tips:
Light: Indirect, low to moderate light.
Water: Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged.
Bonus: The leaves close up at night, giving it a “praying” appearance.
13. Lavender
Lavender brings a peaceful, calming vibe to your kitchen, with its soft purple flowers and fragrant scent.
Place a pot on your countertop, and enjoy its soothing presence. Plus, you can dry the flowers and use them for various DIY projects!
Care Tips:
Light: Full sunlight.
Water: Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Bonus: It can be used in cooking or DIY projects like homemade sachets.
14. Peace Lily
Peace lilies are perfect for adding a little tropical flair to your kitchen decor. Their lush, dark green leaves and white blooms make them a gorgeous centerpiece, whether on a kitchen island or a corner shelf. Plus, they’re known for purifying the air!
Care Tips:
Light: Moderate, indirect light.
Water: Keep the soil consistently moist.
Bonus: It’s a great plant for reducing household toxins.
15. Fiddle Leaf Fig
If you’re aiming for a more dramatic, statement-making plant, the fiddle leaf fig is for you. With its large, glossy leaves, it brings a touch of bold greenery to your kitchen. Llarge plants like this anchor a space and give it that “wow” factor.
Care Tips:
Light: Bright, indirect light.
Water: Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
Bonus: It’s a conversation starter!
16. Cast Iron Plant
If your kitchen doesn’t get much natural light, don’t worry! The cast iron plant is practically indestructible and thrives in low-light environments.
Its dark green, glossy leaves give your kitchen a more traditional, classic look. Pair it with a vintage pot for that perfect nostalgic touch.
Care Tips:
Light: Low light.
Water: Let the soil dry out between waterings.
Bonus: It’s perfect for neglectful plant parents!
17. Boston Fern
Boston ferns bring a lush, vibrant vibe to any space, and they do especially well in kitchens with higher humidity. These fluffy plants look beautiful hanging from the ceiling or placed on a shelf where their fronds can cascade down.
Care Tips:
Light: Indirect sunlight.
Water: Keep the soil moist and mist the leaves regularly.
Bonus: It’s a great plant for adding softness to hard spaces.
Adding plants to your kitchen decor is one of the easiest ways to bring life, warmth, and beauty to your space.
So, which one of these gorgeous plants will you be adding to your kitchen next?
Whatever you choose, remember that incorporating greenery is about more than just looks—it’s about creating a home that feels fresh, inviting, and full of life!
