Discover the best tree species to grow indoors that increase the presence of greenery and serve as architectural elements in the decor
Submitted at Mar 30, 2026, 6:14 PM
Fernanda Zulzke Interiores - Jardim de Inverno. O que alimenta os nossos sonhos? Um canto para escrever diante da paisagem, ler um livro e conviver. A partir dessa imagem, nasceram a antessala e o banheiro funcional de 35 m². O estilo clássico norteia o visual, a começar pela pintura artística de chinoiseries, móveis de madeira talhados à mão e vasos e luminárias de cerâmica moldados para o projeto. No banheiro, os azulejos e ladrilhos originais revivem na composição com papéis de parede franceses aplicados nas paredes e no teto. “Tudo enaltece a história da arquitetura local, com remissões às casas do interior da França e à vida pulsante do Parque da Água Branca”, explica a designer de interiores. (Israel Gollino/Divulgação)
Those who choose to grow trees to grow indoors seek a closer relationship with nature, even in urban projects. Unlike the small plants, they introduce volume, height and presence, acting as architectural elements within the decor.
Maurício Arruda - Casa Coral – Cores do Parque. (Denilson Machado, do MCA Estúdio/Divulgação)
When choosing the right species, it is important to consider factors such as light, ventilation and available space for growth. With proper care, these species adapt well indoors and help create more balanced projects.
The fiddle-leaf fig is one of the best-known trees to grow indoors, mainly for its large, striking leaves. Its presence creates an immediate focal point, ideal for spacious living rooms or corners that call for emphasis.
Figueira-lira (Ficus lyrata). (Julia/Unsplash/Divulgação)
For cultivation, it is essential to offer bright, indirect light and avoid frequent changes of location. Watering should be moderate, allowing the soil to dry slightly between cycles.
Dracaena is a versatile and easy-care option. Its elongated leaves and upright growth help create cleaner lines in the composition.
Dracena Pau-d’água. (Be Green/Divulgação)
It adapts well to different light levels, though it prefers bright projects. Watering should be controlled, avoiding excess moisture in the soil.
With a robust trunk and a widened base, the ponytail palm is a tree that combines sculpture and functionality. Its distinctive form draws attention without demanding constant care.
Pata-de-elefante (Pinterest/Divulgação)
This species prefers abundant light and little water, making it ideal for those seeking practicality. Its slow growth allows it to be kept for long periods in indoor projects.
The jaboticaba tree can be a surprising choice among trees to grow indoors, especially in versions adapted for pots. Beyond ornamental value, it can bear fruit in suitable conditions.
Jabuticabeira (Pinterest/Divulgação)
For healthy development, it needs direct natural light and regular watering. Well-ventilated projects favor its growth and contribute to the plant’s health.
The weeping fig stands out for its dense canopy and delicate leaves. Its form helps fill the space in a light, continuous way.
Figueira-benjamim (Pinterest/Divulgação)
It prefers bright locations and should be protected from drafts. Sudden changes can cause leaf drop, so the stability of the project is essential.
The olive tree is one of the trees that bring a more Mediterranean aesthetic to the project. Its silvery leaves create an interesting contrast with other shades of green.
Oliveira (Pinterest/Divulgação)
For cultivation, it is essential to ensure good incidence of natural light and well-drained soil. Watering should be moderate, respecting drying periods.
The pinnate aralia catches the eye indoors for the cut-out design of its leaves. This characteristic creates a light, elegant visual effect.
Arália-pinnada (Divulgação/Divulgação)
It prefers bright projects, but without direct sun. Watering should keep the soil slightly moist, without waterlogging.
The avocado tree, when grown in a pot, can join the list of trees to grow indoors with a more personal touch. Often started from seed, it carries an experimental character.
Abacateiro (Pinterest/Divulgação)
It needs plenty of light and regular watering to develop. Although its growth is slower in indoor projects, its presence contributes to a more natural atmosphere.
Also known as bird of paradise, Strelitzia is among the trees to grow indoors with a striking tropical presence. Its large, elongated leaves resemble banana plants.
Estrelícia (Pinterest/Divulgação)
To develop well, it needs abundant light and room to grow. Watering should be regular, with attention to pot drainage.
The umbrella tree is one of the most adaptable options, with leaves that open in a radial shape. This design creates a light, interesting canopy.
Árvore-guarda-chuva (Divulgação/Divulgação)
It tolerates different light conditions, but grows best in bright projects. Balanced watering is important, avoiding both excess and lack of water.
Incorporating trees into decor means thinking of them as part of the project’s architecture. Given their scale and presence, these species function as structuring elements, capable of occupying empty corners, softening rigid lines and creating focal points. Placing them near windows or in feature areas helps to enhance both the plant and the surrounding space.
MAJ Arquitetura - Cabana do Parque. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2025. (Denilson Machado, do MCA Estúdio/Divulgação)
Integration with furniture and materials also makes a difference in the composition. Pots in ceramic, natural fibers, or cement help reinforce the project’s language, while combining them with textiles, wood and indirect lighting creates a cozier atmosphere. By balancing proportion, light and circulation, trees to grow indoors fit in naturally, contributing to a more fluid and sensorial project.
