70’s plants are making a comeback!
The 1970’s were a time of bold fashion, groovy music and distinctive home decor. Houseplants played a big role in bringing this cool look together. Today, many of these 70’s plant favourites are making a comeback, reintroducing a touch of retro charm to contemporary interiors. Let’s take a closer look at some of these plants and find out why they capturing our hearts again.
Monstera
No plant better symbolizes the 70’s than the Monstera deliciosa, affectionately known as the Swiss Cheese Plant. With its large, glossy, fenestrated leaves, the Monstera became a staple in the homes of the 70s, often seen in macramé hangers or as a statement piece in living rooms.
Today, the Monstera is experiencing a renaissance and is appreciated not just for its striking appearance but also for its low-maintenance nature. It thrives in indirect light and requires watering only when the top inch of soil is dry. Its ability to grow to impressive sizes and add a tropical feel to any room, makes it a firm favourite.
Rubber Plant
The rubber plant (Ficus elastica) was a beloved plant in the 70’s, known for its large, glossy leaves and robust presence. Today, it’s making a comeback as a popular choice for those looking to add a bold, sculptural element to their homes.
Rubber plants are relatively low maintenance, thriving in bright, indirect light and requiring watering when the top inch of soil is dry. Their ability to grow tall and lush with minimal care makes them a good choice to add a 70’s vibe to your space.
Yucca Plant
Yucca plants, with their striking, sword-like leaves and architectural form, were a staple in 70’s decor. These hardy plants are enjoying renewed popularity, appreciated for their drought tolerance and distinctive appearance.
Yucca plants thrive in bright light and well-draining soil, making them easy to care for. Their dramatic silhouette adds a touch of desert chic to modern interiors, bridging the gap between retro and modern aesthetics.
Ivy
English Ivy (Hedera helix) was a ubiquitous presence in 70’s homes, often seen cascading down from shelves or climbing up trellises. This versatile plant is making a strong comeback, loved for its lush foliage and air-purifying qualities.
Ivy thrives in various lighting conditions and prefers consistent watering, making it a resilient choice for indoor gardening. Its ability to adapt to different environments and a classic, timeless appeal is perfect for adding greenery to any space.
Aspidistra
Aspidistra, commonly known as the Cast Iron Plant, was a popular choice in the 70’s for its ability to thrive in low light and with minimal care. This plant is making a resurgence and is popular due to its tough, durable nature and elegant, arching leaves.
Aspidistras can withstand neglect and varying light conditions, making them an excellent choice for busy plant owners. Their classic appearance and hardy disposition are a winning combination.
Spider Plant
The spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) was a popular choice in 70’s homes, often displayed in hanging baskets where its arching leaves and baby plantlets can cascade down. This hardy plant is incredibly easy to care for.
Spider plants thrive in a range of lighting conditions they like to be quite wet and the soil evenly moist Their air-purifying qualities and resilience make them a fantastic choice for both novice and seasoned plant owners.
Reviving Retro Greenery
To incorporate these 70’s plants into modern decor, consider combining them with vintage-inspired planters, macramé hangers, and rattan furniture. Grouping plants of varying heights and leaf shapes can create an eclectic, bohemian vibe reminiscent of the 70’s whilst still having a contemporary edge.
