There’s something undeniably soothing about stepping into a room filled with lush greenery. The indoor jungle aesthetic—defined by a thriving collection of plants, organic textures, and an earthy, calming palette—has taken the world of interior design by storm. More than just a trend, it offers a way to bring life, texture and tranquillity into your space. Whether you live in a compact apartment or a spacious home, you can cultivate your very own urban jungle with a few simple principles.
Here’s how to transform your interiors into a lush indoor oasis.
Start with the Right Plants
The foundation of any jungle aesthetic is, of course, the plants. Go for a mix of leaf shapes, sizes, and tones (think cascading Devil’s Ivy, tall and sculptural fiddle leaf figs, bushy ferns, and statement monstera deliciosa). The key is variety – it creates that natural, layered look you’d find in a real jungle. If you’re unsure where to start, or if you want to make a big green statement without multiple trips to the nursery, consider using a service that offers indoor plant delivery in Melbourne as a convenient way to bring the greenery to your doorstep – this is especially useful when you’re building a plant collection from scratch.
Embrace Verticality
In nature, greenery doesn’t just sit at ground level—it climbs, hangs and fills every inch of vertical space. Use hanging planters, tall shelving units, ladder shelves, or even wall-mounted pots to bring the jungle upwards. Trailing plants like chain of hearts or Boston ferns are perfect for adding texture and movement to walls and corners.
Create Layers and Clusters
Rather than spacing your plants out evenly, group them in clusters of different heights and textures. Place smaller plants on stools or books, layer medium-sized ones on shelves or benches, and let taller ones anchor the group from the floor. This layered effect mimics the lush undergrowth of a rainforest and adds depth to your space.
Use Natural Materials and Earthy Tones
To complement your plant collection, incorporate furnishings and decor made from rattan, jute, bamboo, and timber. Earthy tones like terracotta, olive green, soft browns, and sand help ground the space and reinforce the natural feel. Think woven baskets for pot covers, wooden plant stands, and neutral-toned textiles.
Let There Be (Natural) Light
Most indoor plants love bright, indirect light—so placement is key. Arrange your collection near windows where they’ll thrive. If your space doesn’t get much sunlight, invest in a few low-light varieties like snake plants, peace lilies, or ZZ plants, and consider using grow lights to supplement darker areas.
Create a Microclimate
Humidity-loving plants like ferns and calatheas will appreciate being grouped together to create a mini microclimate. Bathrooms are ideal for these species, as the steam from showers replicates their natural environment. You can also use pebble trays or small humidifiers to keep moisture levels up.
Don’t Forget Maintenance
A jungle aesthetic is only beautiful if your plants are healthy. Establish a care routine: water consistently (but not too much), dust the leaves, rotate your plants for even growth, and check for pests. Apps and reminders can be great for those still developing their green thumb.
Add Personality with Planters and Pots
Your pots and planters should enhance your space, not compete with it. Neutral tones and simple ceramics work beautifully with bold green foliage, but don’t be afraid to mix in a few patterned or textured options for variety. Just be sure they all share a cohesive aesthetic overall.
Incorporate Jungle-Inspired Decor
To really complete the look, layer in botanical prints, leafy textiles, or even tropical-scented candles. Wall art, mirrors, and vintage finds can further enhance the natural yet curated vibe of your indoor jungle.
Make It Your Sanctuary
Above all, your indoor jungle should reflect you. Whether it’s a calming corner to relax in with a book or a lively green kitchen bursting with herbs, let your personality shine through. Add a comfy chair, a soft rug, and maybe a little music, and you’ve got the ultimate green retreat.
Ready to bring the jungle indoors?
Creating an indoor jungle aesthetic isn’t just about filling your home with plants—it’s about cultivating a sense of peace, vibrancy and connection to nature. With a thoughtful mix of greenery, design elements and care, you can turn any indoor space into a botanical haven. Start small, dream big, and let the greenery grow.
