Tree in an apartment? 8 species to grow in small spaces

Growing apartment trees may seem, at first glance, like a proposition incompatible with compact spaces. However, some species adapt well to indoor projects, as long as they receive adequate light and specific care. More than occupying space, they introduce a new scale inside the home, creating focal points that transform the atmosphere of the projects.

André Carício - Apartamento Electrolux. Projeto da CASACOR Pernambuco 2025. (Walter Dias/Divulgação)

By incorporating trees into the design, the apartment gains density and texture, bringing the interior closer to a more organic experience. Lush foliage, striking trunks, and varying heights help build more interesting compositions, while also contributing to well-being and a sense of connection with nature.

Fiddle-leaf fig

The fiddle-leaf fig is one of the best-known apartment trees. Its large, glossy leaves create immediate visual impact, making it a frequent choice in living rooms and open-plan spaces.

Figueira-lira (Ficus lyrata) (Unsplash/Divulgação)

It prefers well-lit projects, with abundant indirect light. Although it requires some stability in place — avoiding constant changes —, when well positioned, it develops in a balanced way and becomes a protagonist in the decor.

Dracaena

The dracaena is a versatile option among apartment trees, especially for those looking for a low-maintenance plant. Its vertical growth and elongated leaves allow it to adapt to different project sizes.

Dracena Lemon Lime (Dracaena deremensis). (Living Houses/Divulgação)

It tolerates partial shade and does not require frequent watering, which makes daily care easier. In addition, its lighter presence contributes to balanced compositions, without overloading the space.

Ponytail palm

With a robust base and fine leaves that reach upward, the ponytail palm brings a sculptural aesthetic to the project. Among apartment trees, it is one of the most resilient and low-maintenance.

Pata-de-elefante (iStock/Divulgação)

It adapts well to indoor projects, as long as it receives good light. Its ability to store water in the trunk reduces the need for frequent watering, making it practical for more dynamic routines.

Jabuticaba tree

The jabuticaba tree can be grown in pots and stands out among apartment trees for combining an ornamental function and the possibility of fruiting. Its size can be controlled with pruning, which facilitates adaptation to the indoor space.

Jabuticabeira. (Freepik/Divulgação)

To develop well, it needs abundant natural light and regular watering. When well cared for, beyond its foliage, it can offer fruit, creating a more sensorial experience at home.

Weeping fig

Classic in decor, the weeping fig is one of the apartment trees that span different styles. Its small leaves and dense canopy help create volume and naturally fill corners.

Figueira-benjamim (Ficus benjamina). (Epic Gardening/Divulgação)

It prefers well-lit projects and can react to abrupt changes, such as shifts in position or temperature. With stability, it tends to grow vigorously and endure.

Avocado tree

Less conventional, the avocado tree can be grown in pots from the pit, becoming an interesting option among apartment trees. Its initial growth is fast and suits indoor projects well.

Abacateiro (Freepik/Divulgação)

Although it demands natural light, it is a choice that brings a more experimental character to cultivation. Even without fruiting frequently indoors, its presence already adds aesthetic value to the project.

Olive tree

The olive tree is one of the apartment trees that carry strong symbolic and visual value. Its silvery, delicate leaves create a more Mediterranean, light, and sophisticated aesthetic.

Oliveira (Freepik/Divulgação)

It needs plenty of light and well-ventilated projects to stay healthy. In suitable spaces, it works as a standout element, bringing a serene atmosphere to the interior.

Schefflera (umbrella tree)

Schefflera, also known as the umbrella tree, is a practical option among apartment trees. Its leaves arranged in a radial pattern create an interesting composition that is easy to integrate.

Cheflera (árvore-guarda-chuva) (Freepik/Divulgação)

It adapts well to different light conditions and requires simple care, which makes it a frequent choice for interiors. Its moderate growth allows you to keep its size under control over time.

CASACOR Publisher is an exclusive content-creating agent, developed by the CASACOR Technology team from the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Milena Garcia.