10 Color Changing Indoor Plants That Will Surprise You

Indoor Plants
By Ella Brown

Indoor gardening enthusiasts often seek plants that offer not just greenery but a splash of color. These vibrant indoor plants not only add aesthetic appeal to any space but also surprise you with their unique ability to change colors under different conditions.

Explore this fascinating world of color-changing indoor plants and discover their dynamic beauty.

1. Croton (Codiaeum variegatum)

© Living House

Croton is a visual feast with its multicolored leaves that resemble a painter’s palette. This plant’s foliage can shift dramatically, showcasing a spectrum of yellows, reds, and greens.

Changes in light intensity can make the colors more vivid or softer, creating a dynamic display. Place it near a sunny window to see the most intense hues or adjust its position for a gentler look.

Crotons are not just about looks; they also have a personality, holding a bit of mystery with their color-changing ability. Who knew a plant could be a chameleon of sorts?

2. Coleus (Solenostemon scutellarioides)

© Epic Gardening

Coleus is celebrated for its striking patterns and vivid colors. Its leaves can intensify in bright light, offering a show-stopping display. Whether you prefer bold reds or calming greens, Coleus can cater to your aesthetic desires.

This plant thrives in a variety of lighting conditions, allowing you to experiment with its location to achieve different color effects. It’s a versatile addition to any indoor space.

For those who love to experiment with plant placement, Coleus offers endless possibilities and is sure to be a conversation starter with its ever-evolving appearance.

3. Caladium (Caladium bicolor)

© Tropics @Home

Caladium’s heart-shaped leaves are a canvas for nature’s artistry. With shades ranging from red to pink and white to green, this plant offers a delightful surprise as its colors shift.

The variation in temperature and light can lead to changes, keeping the display fresh. Caladiums thrive in warm, humid conditions, making them ideal for indoor spaces with filtered light.

Whether you prefer a bold or subtle look, Caladium provides an ever-changing backdrop that can lift the mood of any room. It’s a lively choice for those seeking a dynamic visual presence.

4. Tradescantia Zebrina (Wandering Jew)

© Garden Betty

Wandering Jew, with its vibrant green and purple stripes, is a standout in any plant collection. Bright light enhances its colors, creating a mesmerizing effect.

The plant’s trailing habit adds movement and life to spaces, making it a popular choice for hanging baskets. It grows quickly, providing an ever-evolving spectacle.

Tradescantia Zebrina is not just an ornamental delight; it also has a playful character, as if it knows it’s being admired.

Easy to care for, it’s perfect for both novice and seasoned plant enthusiasts who appreciate a touch of whimsy.

5. Polka Dot Plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya)

© Proven Winners

The Polka Dot plant is a delightful choice for adding a splash of color to any room. Its leaves, speckled with pink, red, or white, change intensity with light exposure. This playful plant is known for its lively appearance and ease of care.

Adjust the light to see how the spots become more pronounced or fade. A Polka Dot plant is ideal for those who want to make a bold statement without committing to a large plant.

It’s a small package full of surprises, bringing joy and color to indoor settings.

6. Bromeliads (e.g., Guzmania spp.)

© Epic Gardening

Bromeliads are known for their stunning bracts that transform as they mature, adding a dynamic splash of color to indoor spaces. While the foliage remains consistent, the bracts shift in hue, creating an ever-changing display.

These plants thrive in indirect sunlight and prefer a humid environment, making them perfect for bathrooms or kitchens. The rich, varied colors of Bromeliads make them a favorite among plant enthusiasts who enjoy a touch of the exotic.

Providing a tropical flair, they are sure to brighten any room with their vibrant presence.

7. Begonia Maculata (Polka Dot Begonia)

© The Spruce

Begonia Maculata, with its unique polka-dotted leaves, adds a whimsical touch to any indoor plant collection. The leaves subtly change tones, influenced by the amount of light they receive.

This plant enjoys bright, indirect light and humidity, making it a delightful addition to a well-lit bathroom or kitchen. Its charming appearance is complemented by an easygoing nature, requiring minimal care.

Whether you’re a novice or an experienced gardener, Begonia Maculata is a lively choice that will keep you captivated with its playful spots and ever-changing hues.

8. Fittonia (Nerve Plant)

© Southern Living

Fittonia, known for its delicate veining, is a small plant with a big personality. Its leaves can change in brightness and contrast, responding to light exposure. This plant thrives in high humidity and indirect light, making it perfect for terrariums or as a desk plant.

With its intricate patterns, Fittonia brings a touch of sophistication to any setting. Despite its delicate appearance, it’s a hardy plant that requires little maintenance.

Fittonia is a fantastic choice for those who appreciate intricate designs and want to add a touch of elegance to their indoor garden.

9. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)

© Ed’s Plant Shop

Chinese Evergreen is a versatile plant that brings a lush, tropical feel to any indoor space. Its foliage can naturally change color, with some varieties exhibiting reds and greens that vary with light and temperature.

This plant is exceptionally low-maintenance, thriving in low light and requiring minimal watering. Chinese Evergreen is ideal for those who want a beautiful, dynamic plant without much fuss.

Its subtle color shifts and easy care make it a staple in many homes, offering a constant reminder of nature’s ability to adapt and surprise.

10. Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)

© Garden Betty

The Prayer Plant is named for its unique behavior—its leaves fold up at night, resembling hands in prayer. During the day, the leaves’ vibrant colors, including reds and greens, become more visible with changing light.

It thrives in medium, indirect light, and its unique movement adds an interactive element to any room.

The Prayer Plant’s engaging nature and color-changing ability make it a fascinating addition to any plant collection. Its gentle presence and easy care requirements appeal to both plant novices and experienced gardeners alike.