Choose some of the easiest and most dependable evergreens as the backbone of your indoor displays.
Many of them are tough enough for the more difficult positions around the home, and many of those suggested here are bold enough to be focal point plants, too.
The glossy evergreens such as dracaenas, fatsias, ficus, scheffleras, palms and philodendrons generally make excellent stand-alone plants, but they can also be used as the framework plants for groups and arrangements. Don’t neglect vining plants such as pothos - they are great in a hanging basket.
You need these other leaf textures, as well as flowering plants, to add variety of shape and form and a touch of color, but it makes sense to use the toughest evergreens as the basis of your houseplant displays.
When a tough plant is needed for a cold or drafty spot, such as a hallway or near a back door, consider using some of the hardy foliage plants that have to cope with frost and gales when planted outdoors! Fatsia japonica is a glossy evergreen with fingered foliage, rather like the palm of a hand. Others to look for are variegated varieties of Aucuba japonica and Euonymus japonicus.
Don’t be afraid to try some of the more unusual-looking plants, such as succulents - they can add a good bit of interest to an indoor garden. And many of the smaller ones are ideal for a dish-garden.
Ivies are also ideal if you need a tough climber or trailer. There are lots of varieties to choose from with a wide choice of leaf shape, size and color.