As the days grow shorter and the air takes on that crisp, autumn chill, it’s the perfect time to refresh your indoor space with houseplants that reflect the beauty and coziness of fall. While nature outside showcases its vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows, indoor plants can echo the same mood with rich hues and stunning foliage that thrive even as the sunlight dwindles.
Here are five of our favorite fall foliage houseplants that are not only visually striking but also well-suited for the cozy, low-light settings that the season brings.
1. Calathea 'Rattlesnake'
The Calathea Rattlesnake is the perfect plant to bring a bit of autumn’s wilderness indoors. Its long, lance-shaped leaves are a deep green, decorated with darker green spots that mimic the pattern of a rattlesnake's skin, while the purple underside provides a pop of moody color. This plant loves humidity and thrives in lower light conditions, making it ideal for those dimmer corners of your home. Plus, its intricate, nature-inspired foliage adds an earthy, forest-like vibe that pairs perfectly with the season.
Why it’s perfect for fall: The Calathea Rattlesnake’s natural autumn-toned palette and low light tolerance make it a great choice for the season. Its striking patterns also add texture and depth to your indoor space.
Calathea Rattle Snake
2. Calathea 'Ornata'
For a touch of elegance with a moody twist, the Calathea Ornata stands out with its dramatic dark green leaves, accented by delicate pink pinstripes. These subtle pink lines feel reminiscent of sunset skies during the fall months, and as light fades, the colors become even more prominent, bringing warmth to any indoor setting. Like its cousin, the Rattlesnake, Calathea Ornata thrives in low light and adds a refined, cozy charm to any room.
Why it’s perfect for fall: With its deep colors and sophisticated pink accents, Calathea Ornata’s foliage mirrors the elegance and coziness of the fall season, making it an eye-catching addition to your space.
Calathea 'Ornata'
3. Stromanthe 'Triostar'
If you’re looking for a splash of color to brighten the shorter days, the Stromanthe Triostar delivers with its variegated leaves in shades of green, cream, and rosy pink. Its bold and vibrant foliage adds a festive feel, almost like nature's own artwork. The pink and white highlights of the Stromanthe pair perfectly with fall’s natural tones, creating a harmonious blend of both brightness and warmth. It prefers indirect light, so it will thrive indoors during autumn's lower sunlight hours.
Why it’s perfect for fall: The Stromanthe Triostar brings a colorful twist to fall decor, adding both brightness and warmth to match the seasonal colors outside. Its low light needs make it a perfect companion for cooler, darker days.
Stromanthe 'Triostar'
4. Syngonium 'Merry'
With its soft, pastel pink leaves, the Syngonium Merry evokes the warmth and tranquility that’s perfect for cozying up indoors during autumn. This beautiful plant features delicate leaves that start off light pink and soften into a creamier tone, mimicking the soft blush tones of a fall sunset. Not only does it bring in a gentle, warm color, but it also thrives in lower light conditions, making it a wonderful plant for the shorter days of fall.
Why it’s perfect for fall: Syngonium Merry's light pink hues echo the soft, moody tones of autumn, creating a calming and inviting atmosphere in any room. Its adaptability to low light ensures it will flourish as the days grow darker.
5. Philodendron 'Black Velvet'
The Philodendron Black Velvet is the definition of moody elegance. With its rich, dark green leaves that almost appear black, paired with a soft, velvety texture, this plant brings a luxurious and mysterious feel to your space. Its deep tones fit perfectly with fall’s darker aesthetic, making it a stunning contrast against lighter foliage or decor. Even better, it doesn’t require bright light to thrive, making it a great choice as the days become shorter.
Why it’s perfect for fall: The Black Velvet’s rich, dark tones are the ultimate in fall foliage. Its dramatic appearance and tolerance for low light make it the ideal plant for adding depth and elegance to your autumn-inspired indoor garden.
Bringing Fall Indoors
These five houseplants—Calathea Rattlesnake, Calathea Ornata, Stromanthe Triostar, Syngonium Merry, and Philodendron Black Velvet—are the perfect companions for the fall season. Their moody colors, intricate patterns, and low light needs make them well-suited for creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere as the weather cools down and the days grow shorter.
Whether you’re decorating for the season or simply want to refresh your space with plants that thrive in lower light, these beauties are sure to add warmth, elegance, and a touch of autumn magic to your home.