Bring the Med indoors

Pots of citrus and herbs in terracotta pots against a sapphire blue sea backdrop is an iconic Mediterranean-style look. But maybe there is another way to get the style with something a little different. 

A Mediterranean style is warm and inviting, using earthy tones, decorative tiles, colourful patterns, and a hint of the sea in the design. Imagine a baking sun, and you can understand why we have chosen succulent-type plants to represent this style and save on watering. 

Calandiva and Kalanchoe

What started as single-flowering Kalanchoe blossfeldiana has evolved into Calandiva, with double flowers that resemble tiny roses. The Calandiva cultivar of Kalanchoe has the same growing habits and requirements as the original, just with 28 more petals on each flower. There is a range of flower colours, including red, orange, light pink, bright pink, yellow, and white, and they last for up to 6 weeks, giving them superpower status. Whether indoors or out, these pretty succulents are tough, long-lasting houseplants. Look out for the variety ‘Else Flower’ in your local store. 

Pilea peperomioides

The unique succulent lilypad leaves of this pilea, also called the Chinese money plant or pancake plant, are its most pleasant attributes. On top of that, it’s low maintenance and versatile to use as a design element, contrasting beautifully with other plants. Ignore it a bit, and it will last for a long time. Besides, we can all do with a symbol of luck in our homes. 

Pilea depressa

This little pilea is an attractive, easyto-care-for trailing plant with many home uses. Out of this group, this pilea can also survive well in lowlight areas. The trick with this plant is to not overly fuss over them and definitely don’t overwater them. It works well on shelves where it can cascade over bright pot covers. 

Peperomia angulata

In some cultures, this trailing plant, with its pointy leaves and distinctive light green veins, symbolises prosperity and good fortune. Even so, like the pileas, this peperomia does best when ignored most of the time. It makes a brilliant hanging basket specimen plant and works well grouped with the other succulents on this list as a contrast. 

BASIC CARE

All these plants have succulent leaves, meaning they can go without water for a while. Here are some basic care instructions for all of them.  

• Position in bright, indirect light. 

• Keep the soil lightly moist and never allow the plants to sit in water. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.  

• Make sure the soil medium is well-draining.  

• Feed monthly in spring and summer with a liquid plant food.  

• Remove spent flowers in the case of the kalanchoes. 

All these plants were grown by LVG Plants and are available at your local houseplant retailer.