Houseplants all require varying degrees of care and attention to flourish. Beginner enthusiasts may fare better with a simple spider or snake plant- these undemanding species generally thrive in moderate levels of sunlight and won’t immediately keel over if you forget to water them for a while. That said, there are keen gardeners out there who enjoy a challenge. If you’re up for putting your green fingers to the test, here are some houseplant varieties that may be high-maintenance but are ultimately worth the time and effort.

Bonsai Tree

Symbols of harmony, balance, and patience, these miniature marvels are loved worldwide for their charm and fascinating history. Despite their appearance, bonsai trees are relatively delicate compared to other popular houseplants. These miniature trees require 5-6 hours of sunlight daily and are highly prone to overwatering. Due to limited pot space, weekly fertilisation is crucial during the growing season to ensure your bonsai tree has all the nutrients it needs to thrive. 

Calathea

Some might consider calatheas reasonably easy to care for, but these humidity-loving South American jungle plants can be notoriously fussy. Calatheas have particularly sensitive roots, making them susceptible to root rot from continuous overwatering. However, when left a day too long between waterings, a calathea will start displaying dry, crispy leaves. In terms of sunlight exposure, calatheas enjoy medium, indirect sunlight, but they will also tolerate lower light levels. Too much light can scorch a calathea, leading to brown spots and crisp leaves. 

Fiddle-Leaf Fig

Despite the popularity of these verdant statement plants, fiddle-leaf figs are considered somewhat tricky to care for. Native to western Africa, fiddle-leaf figs appreciate warm, humid environments with plenty of water and sunlight exposure. That said, this tropical tree is another example of a plant that cannot handle too much water. A happy fiddle-leaf fig should be watered no more than once per week, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. 

Peace Lily

Peace lilies are favoured for their air-purifying properties and wonderfully elegant appearance, adding an atmosphere of serenity of tranquillity to any room. Contrary to its name, the peace lily is a notoriously dramatic plant. These stunning tropical plants enjoy bright, indirect sunlight and weekly waterings, which may seem easy enough. However, to keep your peace lily producing plenty of attractive spathes, you will need to feed it fortnightly with an evenly balanced liquid plant food. 

Orchid

Orchids maintain a notorious reputation for being beautiful yet demanding. With over 28,000 orchid species worldwide, an orchid’s ideal climate will largely depend on its species. That said, in their natural habitats, orchid roots are often exposed to light; therefore, clear plastic orchid pots are highly recommended. Clear pots also allow you to observe and monitor your orchid’s root health and the moisture level of your potting media to avoid waterlogged soil.

Croton

Due to their stunning, vibrant colours, crotons are a cheerful non-flowering option, perfect for brightening up any environment. Native to Malaysia and the Pacific, crotons favour warm conditions with an ideal humidity range between 40% to 80%. While their watering and light exposure requirements are relatively straightforward, crotons prefer to be left alone and do not respond well to being moved or repotted. A stressed croton will likely go into shock, which usually causes leaf loss. 

Boston Fern

While a Boston fern isn’t the most challenging houseplant, its requirements are specific; specifically, cool temperatures, indirect sunlight and high humidity. Due to the fear of overwatering, it’s common for a Boston fern to dry out from lack of moisture. Contrary to many tropical plant species, Boston ferns crave water and require consistently moist (but not waterlogged) soil. That said, your fern will let you know should it become overwatered by displaying yellowing, wilted leaves. 

Elephant Ear

With huge dramatic leaves, these impressive tropical plants are prized for their exotic flare. The elephant ear is another plant that likes to be consistently damp but not overly wet. Native to the lush, humid forests of Southeast Asia, elephant ear plants thrive in moist environments; therefore, it may be worth purchasing a humidifier or placing your plant in the bathroom. Elephant ear plants also enjoy bright sunlight; however, if you notice bleached or singed leaves, you should relocate your plant to a dimmer area.