Flowers for Houses

Houseplants can easily brighten up an indoor space, providing colors and texture for much less than the price of a new piece of furniture. While not all plants are well suited to the confines of a container, or the low light levels of interiors, there are some flowering plants that will produce beautiful flowers indoors.

Rain Lily

A member of the amaryllis family, rain lily (Zephyranthes grandiflora), also called pink storm lily, is a flowering perennial native to Central America that reaches an average height of about a foot. The plant does well in a pot, and can be grown indoors where its delicate waxy pink and white blooms can be admired. The summer and spring blooming plant also boasts lush green foliage. Rain lily should be grown in a well-drained soil and placed in bright, indirect light. Put the plant outdoors occasionally during the summer to give it a little boost of sunlight. Rain lily should be watered infrequently during the winter, and on a regular basis during summer. Fertilize once a month or so during the summer with a water-soluble fertilizer.

Wax Begonia

Wax begonia (Begonia semperflorens-cultorum hybrids) is a low-growing annual that reaches an average height of between 6 inches and 2 feet. The plant has scalloped green leaves and small blooms, available in shades of pink, red and white. Wax begonia is a very popular houseplant that can be grown with relative ease. The plant prefers a loamy, well-drained neutral soil, although it's adaptable to other soil types. Wax begonia will do well in low light levels. Water the plant frequently during the summer, enough to keep the soil consistently moist to the touch. Deadhead spent flowers in order to encourage new flower growth.

Gerber Daisy

The gerber daisy (Gerbera jamesonii) is a flowering perennial native to South Africa. The plant is notable for its enormous daisy blossoms, which dominate the foot-long foliage of the plant. The flowers of the gerber daisy are available in colors ranging from solid white to bright red, orange, pink, yellow and even a warm melon hue. Gerber daisies are sturdy and largely pest free, and the plants have become quite popular for indoor use. Plant the gerber daisy in a well-draining neutral loam and place in indirect sunlight. Water on a regular basis, and fertilize during the summer to encourage prolific flower production. Cultivars such as "Happy Pot," which has shorter stems, are ideal for indoor use.