WILD THOUGHTS

Skip the plane ride to the tropics and relish in the splendour of the jungle from the comfort of your own home.

- BY SAADIQAH SCHROEDER

what makes a jungle alluring might be the rich, green foliage, the variety of plants, its lushness and its intentional haphazardness — the epitome of method to madness. Each plant is in its place and serving its function — it’s almost unfair that nature can find its feng shui so easily. It might be even more unfair that you think you can’t live your tropical fantasies in your home, too.

LET'S GET GROWING

For the jungle vibe (and any planting, for that matter), layering is key. You want the space to feel natural, but not wild. However, various plants require differing conditions — what might work in your sunroom might not work in your bedroom, for example. It’s well worth a first step to decide on whether you'd like to create a jungle oasis throughout your home or if you'd like to designate one room or section of your home to greenery. In any regard, layering your plants in such a way that it meets both the requirements for thriving and caters to your decor is key. Plants that need abundant natural light, such as the charming Philodendron varieties and Strelitzia nicolai (Wild Banana), could frame windows and door frames. Meanwhile, plants that are more adaptable to their environment can anchor the space, placed in pots along your shelves or on side tables.