Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
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best hot house plants

Looking to create a lush, tropical retreat in your home or garden? If you’re searching for the best hot house plants that thrive in warm, humid environments, you’re in the right place. Hot houses, or heated conservatories, offer the ideal climate for a range of stunning species that bring year-round vibrancy and unique textures to any indoor space. From exotic foliage to low-maintenance greens, our expert-recommended selection will help you transform your hot house into a soothing green oasis. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, explore our top picks for the best hot house plants suited for New Zealand conditions.

Kniphofia Dwarf Scarlet plant with red flowers.

Kniphofia 'Dwarf Scarlet' (Hot Poker Plant)

Kniphofia 'Dwarf Scarlet' is a compact perennial known for its vibrant red flower spikes that rise above neat grassy foliage. This eye catching plant adds bold colour and structure to New Zealand gardens while remaining smaller and easy to place. Flowering through the warmer months, it attracts pollinators and provides long lasting interest.

Buy Kniphofia 'Dwarf Scarlet' (Hot Poker Plant)

From $20.63

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Perennials

Height: 60 cm

Spread: 50 cm

Flowering time: Summer, Autumn

Tolerances: Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wind

Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Ponds, Pool areas

Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Riparian

Zamioculcas 'Black Knight' (ZZ ZZ Plant)

Zamioculcas 'Black Knight' is a very popular indoor plant owing to its dark and showy foliage. It grows as a clump and produces upright fronds which are thick, glossy, and near black in colour. The foliage can reach 60 cm tall and the 40 cm wide but is often much less than this when grown as a potted plant.

Buy Zamioculcas 'Black Knight' (ZZ ZZ Plant)

From $41.33

Suited to regions: Subtropical

Plant type: Indoor Plants

Height: 60 cm

Spread: 40 cm

Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Patios, Pool areas

Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Modern, Tropical

Why Choose Hot House Plants?

Hot house plants are specially suited for warm, sheltered spaces that maintain consistent temperatures and humidity. Many of these plants originate from tropical and subtropical regions and are prized for their decorative leaves, striking flowers, and air-purifying qualities. With the right care, they flourish in a hot house or conservatory, making them perfect for gardeners who want impressive, statement-worthy greenery even through winter months.

Top Choices for the Best Hot House Plants

Stromanthe Triostar (Stromanthe Plant)

One of the most popular picks among lovers of vibrant foliage, Stromanthe Triostar (Stromanthe Plant) dazzles with its variegated leaves of green, cream, and blush pink. It thrives in warm, humid conditions and prefers bright, filtered sunlight. With a little extra humidity and regular watering, Stromanthe Triostar brings dramatic colour and style to any hot house space.

Monstera deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant)

If you’re after an iconic statement plant, the Monstera deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant) is an unbeatable classic. Known for its large, fenestrated leaves, this plant creates a lush, jungle vibe indoors. Its adaptability to hot house climates and easy care needs make it a favourite for both beginners and experienced plant enthusiasts.

Dieffenbachia Camille

For something with striking variegation, consider the Dieffenbachia Camille. This plant’s elegant ivory and green foliage stands out in any warm, sheltered environment. Dieffenbachia Camille appreciates a consistently warm spot with indirect light and will reward you with rapid growth and eye-catching leaves.

Kniphofia Dwarf Scarlet (Hot Poker Plant)

Want to add a fiery pop of colour to your hot house? The Kniphofia Dwarf Scarlet (Hot Poker Plant) brings vibrant red and orange blooms that attract pollinators and add tropical drama. This compact perennial thrives in warm, sunny corners of your hot house and offers long-lasting flowers during the summer and autumn.

Sansevieria Hahnii (Bird's Nest Snake Plant)

If you love low-maintenance options, the Sansevieria Hahnii (Bird's Nest Snake Plant) is one of the best hot house plants for beginners. Its architectural, rosette-shaped growth suits any decor, and it handles warm, moist conditions with ease. This tough, air-purifying plant is happy even if you occasionally forget to water it.

Creating the Perfect Hot House Retreat

When selecting the best hot house plants, consider mixing foliage textures and colours for a layered look that brings depth to your space. Most hot house favourites enjoy regularly misted leaves, ample humidity, and consistent warmth. Grouping plants together can help boost humidity and create a thriving plant community. For more inspiration, explore each plant above and get started on building your ultimate hot house paradise right here in New Zealand.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

best hot house plants

Kniphofia 'Dwarf Scarlet' (Hot Poker Plant)

Zamioculcas 'Black Knight' (ZZ ZZ Plant)

Did you find what you are looking for?

Why Choose Hot House Plants?