7 Best Indoor Plants to Refresh Your Summer Living Room

Looking for simple ways to brighten up your home this summer? Adding greenery is one of the easiest and most effective ways to do that. The 7 best indoor plants to refresh your summer living room, improve air quality, and bring a sense of peace and freshness to your space. These natural beauties can instantly transform a dull corner into a vibrant and welcoming retreat.

In this blog, we’ll explore 7 easy-to-maintain indoor plants perfect for summer. Whether you’re a plant newbie or a seasoned plant parent, you’ll find the right choice for your living room.

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1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)

Snake plants are known for their upright, sword-like leaves and their air-purifying qualities. They thrive in indirect sunlight and require very little watering, making them ideal for hot summer months.

Why it’s perfect for summer:

• Tolerates dry air and warm temperatures

• Requires minimal care

• Great for improving indoor air quality

Styling Tips:
You can place your snake plant near the window to allow it to receive indirect sunlight. Its upright form complements minimalist and modern designs. For more minimalist decor ideas, see our Small Living Room Decor Guide. It also pairs well with sleek, neutral-colored pots.

2. Areca Palm

With its feathery, arching fronds, the areca palm adds a tropical vibe to your space. It loves bright, indirect sunlight and regular watering.

Why it’s perfect for summer:

• Adds a beachy, summery feel

• Natural humidifier

• Pet-friendly

Styling Tips:
The areca palm thrives in bright light, so place it near windows with filtered sunlight. For an elegant touch, use decorative pots with earthy tones that enhance their tropical feel.

3. Pothos (Devil’s Ivy)

Pothos is one of the easiest plants to grow and maintain. Its trailing vines make it ideal for shelves or hanging planters.

Why it’s perfect for summer:

• Thrives in various lighting conditions

• Grows quickly

• Beautiful trailing leaves add movement and greenery

Styling Tips:
Pothos is versatile—place it on a high shelf for its vines to cascade down or hang it in a macramé planter. It’s great for corners that need a touch of greenery without taking up much floor space.

4. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)

The rubber plant features large, glossy leaves that add a bold touch to any room. It prefers bright light and occasional watering.

Why it’s perfect for summer:

• Eye-catching foliage

• Cleans the air

• Makes a strong visual impact

Styling Tips:
Position the rubber plant in a spot where it can get ample light, such as near a window. Its large leaves make it a striking focal point, so pair it with simple décor to let the plant shine.

5. Spider Plant

Spider plants are great for beginners and thrive in a range of environments. Their arching leaves and small baby plants give them a playful appearance.

Why it’s perfect for summer:

• Non-toxic to pets

• Can tolerate heat

• Grows well in hanging baskets or shelves

Styling Tips:
Spider plants work wonderfully in hanging baskets. Place them near windows for indirect light and let their playful green leaves drape down for a charming effect.

6. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

The ZZ plant is a true survivor. It’s almost impossible to kill and can handle low light, infrequent watering, and heat.

Why it’s perfect for summer:

• Requires little care

• Shiny leaves brighten up any corner

• Perfect for sunny spots

Styling Tips:
This hardy plant thrives in lower light conditions, making it ideal for spaces that don’t get a lot of sun. Place it in a stylish pot to highlight its glossy, dark green leaves.

7. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

Peace lilies are elegant, with dark green leaves and white flowers. They love humidity and shade.

Why it’s perfect for summer:

• Adds freshness and beauty

• Naturally filters indoor air

• Prefers cooler, shaded areas of the room

Styling Tips:
Peace lilies are perfect for adding a touch of elegance to shaded corners. Pair them with light-colored pots to enhance their delicate white blooms and lush foliage.

Quick Tips for Styling Indoor Plants in Your Summer Living Room

Use decorative pots.
Choose pots that match the room’s aesthetic. Ceramic pots with pastel colors work well for a summery vibe, while wicker baskets lend a natural feel.

Group Plants by Size:
Mix plants of different sizes for a layered effect. Taller plants like the areca palm can be placed next to smaller ones like the spider plant to create an appealing contrast.

Elevate with Stands or Shelves:
For an organized, stylish display, place plants on shelves or plant stands. This helps maximize space and creates an interesting visual height.

 Position Near Light Sources:
Ensure your plants receive the right amount of light. Place them near windows or in areas that get indirect sunlight for optimal growth.

FAQ: Indoor Plants for Your Summer Living Room

Q1: Can I place all these indoor plants in direct sunlight?

• No, some indoor plants, like the snake plant and ZZ plant, prefer indirect light. Direct sunlight can cause their leaves to burn. Always check the plant’s light requirements before placing it near a window.

Q2: How do I keep my indoor plants healthy in summer heat?

• Summer heat can be tough on plants. Keep them in shaded areas or provide filtered light. Avoid overwatering and ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot.

Q3: Can I combine different types of indoor plants in one planter?

• While it’s possible, be sure the plants have similar care needs. For example, succulents and cacti can thrive in the same planter, but tropical plants like peace lilies need more humidity and water, so they should be planted separately.

Q4: How often should I fertilize my summer indoor plants?

• During the summer growing season, plants benefit from monthly fertilization. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer to promote healthy growth and vibrant foliage.

Q5: Are indoor plants safe for pets?

• Not all indoor plants are safe for pets. If you have pets, make sure to choose pet-friendly plants like spider plants, areca palms, and Boston ferns. Some plants, such as peace lilies, can be toxic to animals.

• Conclusion

  Adding the 7 best indoor plants to refresh your summer living room is one of the easiest ways to enhance the atmosphere of your home. With their air-purifying qualities and vibrant aesthetics, these plants can make your living room feel cooler, fresher, and more inviting.

  From the easy-care snake plant to the pet-friendly areca palm, these indoor plants not only improve the look of your space but also contribute to better air quality and a healthier environment. By choosing the right pots, caring for your plants properly, and strategically placing them around your living room, you’ll create a truly refreshing summer retreat.

  If you’d like more ideas for refreshing your living room, check out our other blogs on summer living room design and decorating with greenery for even more inspiration. You can also visit Apartment Therapy for additional expert tips and real-life small space makeovers.