My Favorite Indoor Blooming Houseplants: A Guide to Year-Round Color
There's something truly transformative about cultivating blooming houseplants - a lesson I've learned through years of growing, nurturing, and sometimes failing with these beautiful specimens. My journey with flowering plants began in childhood, watching my mom and grandma tend to their indoor blooming plants, and has evolved into a lifelong passion that informs my work as a floral designer here in Des Moines.
Over the years, I've grown hundreds of blooming plants, researched countless varieties, and learned through both triumph and heartbreak what it takes to keep these beauties thriving indoors. I've coaxed reluctant orchids into reblooming, celebrated the first buds on plants I propagated myself, and discovered that the right blooming houseplant can bring not just color, but genuine joy to your daily life - especially during Iowa's long, gray winters.
What I've come to appreciate most is that each blooming plant has its own personality, its own rhythm, and its own way of rewarding your care. Some are forgiving companions perfect for beginners, while others challenge you to learn their specific needs. But all of them offer something magical: the anticipation of watching buds form, the excitement of flowers opening, and the satisfaction of creating an indoor garden that blooms year-round.
Here are my favorite indoor blooming houseplants, ranked from wonderful to absolutely extraordinary, with all the knowledge I've gathered from years of hands-on experience and dedicated research. And yes, I'm building up to my absolute favorite at the end - a plant that started as a cut flower in my arrangements and became an obsession.
10. Begonia
What Makes It Stand Out: Begonias offer an incredible variety of leaf patterns and flower colors, from soft pastels to vibrant reds and pinks. Their blooms can be single or double, and many varieties bloom continuously with proper care.
Care Overview: Begonias prefer bright indirect light and consistently moist (but not soggy) soil. They thrive in humidity, making them perfect for bathrooms or kitchens. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and feed monthly during the growing season. These were among the first plants I learned to care for, tending to them alongside my mom and grandma. Those early memories of deadheading spent blooms and misting leaves taught me the patience and attention that all houseplants require.
Soil: Well-draining potting mix with peat moss
Watering: Every 5-7 days; keep soil consistently moist
Water Preference: Likes consistent moisture without being waterlogged
Pot Size: Prefers some room to grow; repot annually
Light: Bright indirect light; avoid direct sun
Care Difficulty: Moderate (6/10) - Requires attention to humidity and watering
Health Concerns: Toxic to pets and humans if ingested in moderate to large quantities; can cause vomiting, excessive drooling, and difficulty swallowing. May cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals when handling.
History: Begonias were discovered in the Caribbean in the late 1600s by French botanist Charles Plumier, who named them after Michel Bégon, a French patron of botany. They became wildly popular in Victorian England, where over 10,000 varieties were cultivated.
Fun Fact: Some begonia species have leaves that are more prized than their flowers, with patterns that look like painted artwork!
9. Cyclamen
What Makes It Stand Out: Cyclamen features upswept, butterfly-like blooms in shades of pink, red, white, and purple. The heart-shaped leaves often have beautiful silver marbling, making the plant attractive even when not in bloom.
Care Overview: Cyclamen prefers cool temperatures (60-65°F) and bright indirect light. Water from the bottom to avoid getting the crown wet, which can cause rot. Remove spent flowers by twisting them off at the base. This was the very first blooming plant I bought for myself when I worked at my first flower shop. I was immediately captivated by the delicate blooms - I knew from the first moment I saw it that I had to have it. That cyclamen taught me that sometimes love at first sight applies to plants too.
Soil: Well-draining potting mix with perlite
Watering: Every 5-7 days; water from bottom when soil surface is dry
Water Preference: Likes consistent moisture but crown must stay dry
Pot Size: Prefers to be slightly rootbound
Light: Bright indirect light; cooler temperatures
Care Difficulty: Moderate (5/10) - Needs cooler temps and careful watering
Health Concerns: Toxic to pets and humans if ingested; the tuber is especially poisonous and can cause severe vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures even in small amounts. Handle with care.
History: Cyclamen has been cultivated since ancient times. The Greeks and Romans used it medicinally, though this is not recommended today. It became a popular houseplant in Europe during the 19th century.
Fun Fact: In the language of flowers, cyclamen symbolizes resignation and goodbye, but also deep affection - quite the contradiction!
8. Clivia
What Makes It Stand Out: Clivia produces stunning clusters of trumpet-shaped flowers in vibrant orange, yellow, or red. This unique plant offers a fun pop of color that's unexpected and eye-catching, with blooms that can last for weeks.
Care Overview: Clivia is remarkably low-maintenance. It prefers to be slightly pot-bound and actually needs a cool, dry rest period in fall to trigger blooming. Water sparingly in winter, then increase watering when flower stalks appear. I first learned about clivia during a trip to South Africa, where it grows natively. Seeing them thriving in their natural habitat was incredible, and now every time I see one, it reminds me of my family who lives there. That connection makes this plant especially meaningful to me.
Soil: Well-draining potting mix with orchid bark
Watering: Every 2-3 weeks in growing season; monthly in winter
Water Preference: Prefers to dry out between waterings
Pot Size: Loves being rootbound; only repot every 3-5 years
Light: Medium to bright indirect light
Care Difficulty: Easy (3/10) - Very forgiving and long-lived
Health Concerns: All parts are toxic to pets and humans if ingested; even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive salivation. Large quantities can cause more severe symptoms.
History: Native to South Africa, Clivia was named after Lady Charlotte Clive, Duchess of Northumberland, who first cultivated it in England in the 1850s. It became a status symbol among Victorian plant collectors.
Fun Fact: A single Clivia plant can live for over 50 years and will bloom more prolifically as it ages!
7. African Violet
What Makes It Stand Out: These dainty beauties produce delicate, velvety flowers in purple, pink, white, blue, and even bi-colors. Their compact size and almost constant blooming make them perfect for small spaces.
Care Overview: African violets prefer consistent conditions - moderate light, regular watering, and warm temperatures. Use room-temperature water and avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent spotting.
Soil: Special African violet potting mix (light and fluffy)
Watering: Every 5-7 days; water from bottom or use self-watering pots
Water Preference: Likes consistent moisture; never let it completely dry out
Pot Size: Prefers small pots; plant should be 3x the pot diameter
Light: Bright indirect light; will bloom under grow lights
Care Difficulty: Moderate (5/10) - Specific watering and light needs
Health Concerns: Non-toxic to pets and humans - safe for all households!
History: African violets were discovered in 1892 in Tanzania by Baron Walter von Saint Paul, who sent seeds back to Germany. They became one of the most popular houseplants in America by the 1950s.
Fun Fact: There are over 16,000 registered varieties of African violets, and enthusiasts hold competitions worldwide to show their prized specimens!
6. Christmas/Thanksgiving/Easter Cactus
What Makes Them Stand Out: These three holiday cacti are often confused but each has unique characteristics and bloom times that make them special.
Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii): Blooms in December with rounded leaf segments and flowers that hang downward. Leaf edges are more rounded. I remember these from my grandma's house growing up - she had a massive one that bloomed reliably every year. I wish I had taken a cutting from her original plant to keep that living connection to her.
Thanksgiving Cactus (Schlumbergera truncata): Blooms in November with pointed, claw-like projections on leaf segments. Flowers point outward or slightly upward.
Easter Cactus (Rhipsalidopsis gaertneri): Blooms in spring with star-shaped flowers and bristles on leaf segments. Flowers are more symmetrical and upright.
Care Overview: All three prefer similar care - bright indirect light, well-draining soil, and a rest period with reduced watering to trigger blooming. They're actually jungle cacti, not desert cacti, so they like more moisture than you'd expect.
Soil: Cactus mix with peat moss and perlite
Watering: Every 1-2 weeks; more frequent when blooming
Water Preference: Prefers to dry out slightly between waterings
Pot Size: Likes being slightly rootbound
Light: Bright indirect light; needs darkness to set buds
Care Difficulty: Easy (3/10) - Very forgiving and long-lived
Health Concerns: Non-toxic to pets and humans - safe for all!
History: These cacti are native to the coastal mountains of Brazil, where they grow as epiphytes in trees. They were introduced to Europe in the early 1800s and quickly became popular holiday plants.
Fun Fact: A well-cared-for holiday cactus can live for over 100 years and be passed down through generations!
5. Bromeliad
What Makes It Stand Out: Bromeliads offer exotic, long-lasting blooms in brilliant colors - reds, oranges, pinks, and yellows. Their architectural form and tropical appearance make them stunning focal points.
Care Overview: Bromeliads are surprisingly easy. Keep the central cup filled with water and mist occasionally. They prefer bright indirect light and good air circulation. After blooming (which can last months), the mother plant will produce pups before dying.
Soil: Orchid bark mix or bromeliad-specific mix
Watering: Keep central cup filled; mist weekly
Water Preference: Likes water in central cup; soil should be barely moist
Pot Size: Prefers small pots; shallow roots
Light: Bright indirect light; some tolerate lower light
Care Difficulty: Easy (2/10) - Nearly foolproof
Health Concerns: Non-toxic to pets and humans - completely safe!
History: Bromeliads are native to the Americas, with most species from Central and South American rainforests. The pineapple is the most famous bromeliad! They were introduced to European cultivation in the 1700s.
Fun Fact: In their natural habitat, bromeliads create mini-ecosystems in their water-filled cups, providing homes for frogs, insects, and even small crabs!
4. Phalaenopsis Orchid (Moth Orchid)
What Makes It Stand Out: These are the most popular orchids for good reason - they're easy to find, come in countless colors and patterns, and their blooms can last 3-4 months with proper care. The elegant, moth-like flowers are simply stunning.
Care Overview: Phalaenopsis orchids prefer bright indirect light and weekly watering. Let water drain completely - never let them sit in water. They can rebloom multiple times per year if given a slight temperature drop at night. I received my first Phalaenopsis in high school, and I was fascinated by the process of encouraging new growth and learning the techniques to get it to rebloom after the initial flowers faded. That early success with orchids opened up a whole new world of plant possibilities for me.
Soil: Orchid bark mix (not regular potting soil)
Watering: Weekly; soak and drain thoroughly
Water Preference: Likes to dry out between waterings; roots need air
Pot Size: Prefers tight fit; use clear pots to monitor roots
Light: Bright indirect light; east or west window ideal
Care Difficulty: Easy (3/10) - Beginner-friendly orchid
Health Concerns: Non-toxic to pets and humans - safe for everyone!
History: Native to Southeast Asia and Australia, Phalaenopsis orchids were first discovered in the early 1800s. They became commercially available in the 1970s and are now the most widely sold orchid worldwide.
Fun Fact: A single Phalaenopsis orchid spike can produce up to 20 flowers, and the plant can live for decades, blooming multiple times per year!
3. Amaryllis
What Makes It Stand Out: Amaryllis bulbs produce spectacular, trumpet-shaped blooms up to 8 inches across in reds, pinks, whites, and even striped varieties. They're incredibly easy to force for holiday displays and can be dressed up in decorative containers for stunning seasonal décor.
Care Overview: Plant the bulb with the top third exposed, water thoroughly, then wait for magic! Once growth starts, water regularly and provide bright light. After blooming, continue watering and feeding to rebuild the bulb for next year's show. They require minimal care during their dormant period.
Soil: Well-draining potting mix
Watering: Water thoroughly at planting, then sparingly until growth appears; regular watering during growth
Water Preference: Moderate moisture when growing; dry during dormancy
Pot Size: Pot should be 1-2 inches wider than bulb
Light: Bright indirect to direct light when growing
Care Difficulty: Very Easy (2/10) - Nearly impossible to fail
Health Concerns: Toxic to pets and humans if ingested; bulbs are especially poisonous and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and tremors even in small amounts.
History: Native to South America, amaryllis were brought to Europe in the 1700s. Dutch growers perfected bulb cultivation in the 1900s, making them the holiday staple they are today.
Fun Fact: An amaryllis bulb can produce flowers for 75+ years! Some Victorian-era bulbs are still blooming in botanical gardens today.
2. "Sherry Baby" Oncidium Orchid
What Makes It Stand Out: The "Sherry Baby" Oncidium produces cascading sprays of small, intricately shaped flowers that resemble dancing ladies. The blooms are deep burgundy-red with a sweet, chocolate-like fragrance. This variety is very unique and rare, making it a true collector's item.
Care Overview: While they have a reputation for being tricky, Oncidiums are actually easy once you understand their needs. They prefer bright light (more than Phalaenopsis), good air circulation, and a distinct wet-dry cycle. Water thoroughly when the potting medium is nearly dry. With a little learning, they become straightforward and rewarding. I first learned about oncidium orchids as a cut flower - I instantly fell in love with the small blooms that grow along the stem. They may be small individually, but together they create a huge impact. That initial fascination led me to grow them myself, and they've become one of my absolute favorites.
Soil: Fine to medium orchid bark mix
Watering: Every 5-7 days; water when medium is nearly dry
Water Preference: Likes to dry out between waterings but not stay dry long
Pot Size: Prefers to be slightly rootbound; good drainage essential
Light: Bright indirect to some direct morning sun
Care Difficulty: Moderate (4/10) - Requires learning but very rewarding
Health Concerns: Non-toxic to pets and humans - safe for all households!
History: Oncidium orchids are native to Central and South America, growing as epiphytes in cloud forests. The "Sherry Baby" is a modern hybrid created by orchid breeders to combine the best traits of several species - compact size, prolific blooming, and that incredible fragrance.
Fun Fact: "Sherry Baby" can produce over 100 flowers on a single spike, and the chocolate scent is strongest in the morning and evening!
1. Anthurium - My Absolute Favorite
What Makes It Stand Out: And here we are - my number one favorite blooming houseplant. Anthuriums produce glossy, heart-shaped "flowers" (actually modified leaves called spathes) that can last for months - sometimes up to 8 weeks or longer per bloom! Available in red, pink, white, purple, and even green, they provide nearly year-round color with an elegance that never gets old.
Care Overview: Anthuriums are remarkably easy, which is part of why I love them so much. They prefer bright indirect light, consistent moisture, and humidity. Wipe the leaves occasionally to keep them glossy. They're one of the most low-maintenance blooming plants available, yet they look absolutely stunning. Like the oncidium orchid, I first encountered anthuriums as a cut flower in my floral design work. But once I discovered how incredibly long the blooms last on the actual plant - we're talking months, not days - I was completely hooked. There's something deeply satisfying about a plant that rewards minimal effort with maximum beauty.
Soil: Orchid bark mix or well-draining potting mix with perlite
Watering: Every 5-7 days; keep soil lightly moist
Water Preference: Likes consistent moisture without being soggy
Pot Size: Prefers some room to grow
Light: Bright indirect light; tolerates medium light
Care Difficulty: Very Easy (2/10) - Extremely forgiving
Health Concerns: Toxic to pets and humans if ingested; contains calcium oxalate crystals that can cause immediate mouth irritation, excessive drooling, and difficulty swallowing even in small amounts. Keep away from curious pets and children.
History: Native to Central and South American rainforests, anthuriums were introduced to Hawaii in the 1930s, where they became a major commercial crop. They're now one of the most popular tropical houseplants worldwide, and it's easy to see why.
Fun Fact: The actual flowers are the tiny bumps on the spadix (the spike in the center) - what we think of as the flower is actually a modified leaf! This is why the "blooms" last so incredibly long.
Bringing Blooms Into Your Des Moines Home
Indoor blooming plants offer something special that foliage plants can't - the joy of watching buds form, flowers open, and color transform your space. Whether you're a beginner looking for easy-care options like amaryllis and bromeliads, or an experienced plant parent ready to try unique varieties like the "Sherry Baby" orchid or my beloved anthurium, there's a blooming houseplant perfect for your home.
These plants have brought me years of joy, taught me patience and observation, and connected me to memories of family and travels around the world. I hope they bring the same magic to your Des Moines home.
Ready to Start Your Blooming Plant Journey?
I'd love to help you find the perfect blooming houseplant for your home! Stop by Stella J Designs at 4830 Maple Dr Suite 10, Pleasant Hill, IA 50327 to see what we currently have in stock - our inventory changes regularly with seasonal favorites and unique finds. Not sure what you're looking for? Give us a call at (515) 720-1121 and we can help you choose the right plant for your space and experience level. You can also browse our Indoor Plants collection online to see what's available. Whether you're ready for an easy-care amaryllis or want to take on the challenge of a rare orchid, we'll make sure you have everything you need to succeed!