Complete Gardening
Growing houseplants from cuttings in water is a rewarding and easy way to expand your indoor garden. This technique allows you to witness the rooting process up close, and it’s perfect for creating large, impressive plants from small cuttings.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a novice, these ten houseplants are excellent choices for water propagation.
From the iconic Monstera deliciosa with its split leaves to the striking Croton with multicolored foliage, you’ll find a variety of plants that not only beautify your space but also thrive with this propagation method. Let’s explore these wonderful options!
1. Monstera deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant)
The Monstera deliciosa is celebrated for its dramatic, split leaves that add a touch of the tropics to any home. Starting with a stem cutting, you can easily root this plant in water. Choose a healthy stem with at least one node and leaf, and place it in a jar of water.
Keep it in a warm, bright spot, but avoid direct sunlight. Over time, roots will develop, and the cutting can be transferred to soil, growing into a large, eye-catching plant that can climb if supported. It’s perfect for those looking to add some greenery to their home.
2. Ficus elastica (Rubber Plant)
Ficus elastica, commonly known as the Rubber Plant, boasts large, shiny leaves that make a bold statement. To propagate, cut a 6–8 inch healthy stem, ensuring it includes a few leaves.
Submerge the cut end in water, and place the jar in a bright, indirect light setting. Within weeks, you’ll notice roots beginning to form.
Once established, the cutting can be planted in soil, where it will continue to grow into a tree-like structure. The Rubber Plant is an excellent choice for those who wish to introduce a touch of nature into their living or office space.
3. Ficus lyrata (Fiddle Leaf Fig)
Known for its broad, violin-shaped leaves, the Fiddle Leaf Fig is a favorite among plant enthusiasts. Though it can be finicky, propagating this plant in water is possible with the right conditions. Take a leaf or stem tip cutting and place it in water.
Ensure the environment is warm and bright to encourage root development. Change the water regularly to keep it fresh.
Once roots appear, transition the cutting to soil, where it can grow into a large, striking plant. This process offers a satisfying way to expand your collection with minimal effort.
4. Dracaena marginata (Madagascar Dragon Tree)
The Madagascar Dragon Tree is known for its slender trunk and spiky leaves that can reach impressive heights. To propagate, take a top section of the stem, known as a cane, and root it in water.
Place the cutting in a jar, ensuring the base is submerged. Position it in a well-lit area, away from direct sunlight. Over time, roots will form, allowing the cutting to be potted in soil.
The Dracaena marginata is perfect for those looking to add height and architectural interest to their indoor spaces. Its easy care makes it a favorite among beginners.
5. Schefflera actinophylla (Umbrella Plant)
Schefflera actinophylla, commonly known as the Umbrella Plant, is admired for its large, umbrella-like leaf clusters. To propagate, take a healthy stem cutting and suspend it in water until roots appear. Ensure the water is changed regularly to maintain freshness.
Place in a bright location, but avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn. Once roots are visible, the cutting can be transferred to soil, where it will continue to grow into a large, bold statement piece. This plant is ideal for those who want to add a touch of the tropics to their home.
6. Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)
Dieffenbachia, or Dumb Cane, is distinct for its variegated leaves and thick trunk. It’s an excellent choice for water propagation, especially when rejuvenating older, leggy plants. Take a cane cutting and place it in water, ensuring the base is submerged.
Position it in a bright, indirect light area, and maintain the water level. Over time, roots will develop, and the cutting can be planted in soil.
This method provides a rejuvenating boost to Dieffenbachia, making it flourish into a lush, full plant. Its striking appearance and adaptability make it a popular choice for indoor gardeners.
7. Philodendron bipinnatifidum (Lacy Tree Philodendron)
Philodendron bipinnatifidum, or Lacy Tree Philodendron, is treasured for its huge, deeply lobed leaves. To propagate, place a stem cutting in water, ensuring it’s positioned in a warm, bright setting.
Change the water regularly to promote healthy root growth. Once roots are established, transfer the cutting to soil. This plant can grow into a large, floor-worthy specimen, adding a lush, tropical vibe to any room.
The Lacy Tree Philodendron’s robust growth and dramatic foliage make it an attractive option for those seeking to make a statement with greenery in their home.
8. Croton (Codiaeum variegatum)
Croton, known for its vivid, multicolored foliage, adds tropical flair to any space. It can be a bit temperamental, but with the right conditions, you can root tip cuttings in water. Select a healthy tip, and place it in water in a warm, humid environment.
Change the water regularly to support root growth. Once roots form, the cutting can be potted in soil.
Croton is ideal for those looking to inject a burst of color and warmth into their home. Its unique appearance requires a bit more care, but the visual rewards are well worth the effort.
9. Dracaena reflexa (Song of India / Song of Jamaica)
Dracaena reflexa, or Song of India, is recognized for its striped leaves and branching trunk. To propagate, cut a top section of the stem and place in water. Position in a sunny, warm spot, but shield from direct sunlight.
Ensure the water remains clean by changing it regularly. As roots develop, transfer the cutting to soil, where it will continue to flourish.
This plant is perfect for adding a touch of the exotic to your home, with its unique leaf pattern and easy-care nature. Dracaena reflexa offers both beauty and simplicity in one package.
10. Umbrella Sedge / Umbrella Palm (Cyperus alternifolius)
Though technically a sedge, the Umbrella Sedge creates a unique visual with its umbrella-like leaf whorls on tall stalks. To propagate, place a cutting upside down, submerging the leafy side in water. Small plantlets can form at the leaf bases.
Ensure the water is fresh and the location is bright. Once plantlets develop roots, they can be potted in soil. This plant is ideal for those seeking something different, with its unusual appearance and straightforward care.
The Umbrella Sedge adds an interesting element to any indoor garden, providing a conversation starter for plant lovers.