If you grew up visiting your grandparents’ house, you surely remember that fresh scent of nature in the air, the blooming windowsills, and the lush green backyards. The plants they nurtured were more than decoration — they were emotional memories, acts of care, and traditions.
And believe it: many of these plant species are still perfect for creating warm, vibrant, and personality-filled spaces.
+ Forget the Grandma Look: Sarah Jessica Parker Proves Floral Wallpaper Is All About Style
We’ve selected 9 nostalgic plants that were (and still are) part of many family homes — and that deserve a spot in your decor today.
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
Besides being a powerful plant for energetic protection, the snake plant is incredibly resilient. Your grandparents knew that well. It looks beautiful in pots, whether at the entrance or indoors, adding elegance with its upright, deep green leaves.
2. Fern
A staple in the ’70s and ’80s, the hanging fern was a must-have in living rooms or balconies. With its long, delicate fronds, it adds movement and softness — and helps purify the air.
3. ZZ Plant (Zamioculca)
Easy to care for, tough, and very stylish. This glossy-leafed plant thrived in the shady corners of our grandparents’ homes — and it fits perfectly in modern and minimalist spaces too.
4. Golden Pothos
If there’s one plant that crosses generations, it’s the pothos. It grows easily, adapts well, and looks beautiful in hanging pots or climbing. Its variegated green leaves bring a natural charm to any room.
5. Begonia
With delicate leaves and vibrant blooms, begonias were grown on balconies, garden beds, or window boxes. Today, they’re still a colorful and romantic choice for anyone looking to brighten up small spaces.
6. African Violet
Small, delicate, and full of charm. African violets were a favorite on window ledges. They’re still perfect for adding a pop of color without taking up much space. Best of all: they bloom multiple times a year.
7. Croton
With colorful leaves ranging from green to red, and shades of yellow and orange, crotons always stood out in grandparents’ gardens. Today, they’re making a comeback as statement pieces, especially on balconies and entryways.
8. Hydrangea
If your grandparents had a countryside home, you probably remember the lush hydrangea bushes with blue, pink, and lilac blooms. These stunning flowers bring a romantic, pastoral vibe to any garden or patio.
9. Anthurium
With its vibrant red flowers and glossy green leaves, the anthurium was a symbol of elegance in homes throughout the ’80s and ’90s. Today, it’s back in style in contemporary interiors — perfect for bright indoor spaces.
Why Bring These Plants Into Your Home?
These species aren’t just part of emotional memory — they’re easy to care for, adapt well to urban environments, and help enhance well-being, air quality, and coziness indoors. Adding plants to your decor is one of the key trends of biophilic design, which fosters a direct connection with nature even in the most modern homes.
Whether you want to rekindle cherished memories or simply create a more welcoming and lively home, these plants are a perfect choice!
This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
