Grow your Indoor Ngāhere
In a world bustling with screens and technology, houseplants offer a breath of fresh air and a connection to nature. Millennials, known for their love of sustainability and well-being, have embraced the houseplant trend like no other generation. And it's no wonder why! Houseplants not only beautify our spaces but also purify the air, reduce stress, and improve focus and productivity.
Embracing the allure of the rich biodiversity of Aotearoa, we find ourselves drawn to the beauty of native plants that gracefully thrive indoors. These rākau motuhake not only infuse our living spaces but also offer a connection to the vibrant natural heritage of Aotearoa. Let us explore a curated selection of New Zealand's finest indoor companions, each chosen for their aesthetic appeal and adaptability to indoor environments.
Perhaps you are a fan of simple hangers and trailer plants, such as Baby tears or chain of hearts? Or perhaps you love the feeling of having plant mum responsibility. Then Remuremu (Selliera radicans) is for you. Remuremu is found naturally growing and seeking attention on the rocky shore. Spray this plant with salt water to imitate its salty environment. Remuremu is now a very desirable species as they are threatened.
Next, we encounter the elegant Kōhūhū (Pittosporum tenuifolium), a resilient evergreen shrub boasting delicate, wavy-edged foliage. Its remarkable adaptability to various indoor conditions renders it an ideal choice for our personal horticultural havens. Moderate light and regular watering suffice to nurture its magnificence.
Wandering deeper through the nursery, we stumble upon the mesmerising Kōwhai (Sophora microphylla), a beloved native tree that delights as an indoor spectacle. Adorned with vibrant yellow flowers, this vivacious gem injects a burst of colour into our indoor sanctuaries. Kōwhai is a beautiful plant for the art of bonsai, with many tiny leaves it helps to create the small-scale effect. Bright light is its sustenance, and a sun-kissed spot near a window ensures its flourishing presence indoors.
Tarawera (Pellaea rotundifolia) will bring a touch of unique fern diversity from Aotearoa into your living space. This particular fern species is well-suited for indoor cultivation due to its relatively compact size and adaptability to lower light conditions. When cultivating Tarawera as an indoor plant, it is important to provide it with indirect or filtered light to mimic its preferred growing environment. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch its delicate fronds. Additionally, maintaining consistent moisture levels by watering when the top inch of soil feels slightly dry is crucial for its well-being.
Finally, we unveil the grandeur, Kauri (Agathis australis), a native giant known for its ātua form in our Ngāhere. Yet, within our cozy confines, this majestic tree transforms into a captivating indoor companion. Its symmetrical foliage and intriguing trunk shape embody a sense of timeless elegance. Embracing bright light and regular hydration, the Kauri gracefully bridges the gap between outdoor splendor and indoor tranquility.
While we consider cultivating rākau of Aotearoa within our kāinga, let us remember the delicate dance of light, moisture, and space. Honoring their inherent needs ensures their vitality and grants us the privilege of witnessing the exquisite wonders of Tāne Māhuta within the comfort of our own kāinga.
Want to read more?
Are you excited? We certainly are! Stay tuned for our upcoming blog posts filled with māra inspo, regeneration projects, and inspiration to help you support native plant nurseries in Aotearoa. Let's dive into the world of houseplants together and embrace the beauty and benefits they bring into our lives.
