Cut flowers are one of life’s quiet luxuries—delicate, fleeting, and entirely unnecessary in the most wonderful way. They exist purely to delight, to soften a space, to bring beauty for beauty’s sake. ​​And yet, who has time to hit up the local flower market every three days? (Maybe if you’re Kathleen Kelly). But what if we told you there are flowering houseplants that actually thrive indoors and reward your efforts with vibrant blooms? Yes, you heard that right—flowers inside your house, no green thumb required.Whether you lean toward sculptural orchids, cheerful African violets, or cascading blooms with a bit of drama, flowering houseplants offer endless ways to personalize your space. Some bring subtle fragrance, others deliver unapologetic color. And the best part? These varieties are well-suited to indoor living, thriving on windowsills, side tables, and anywhere else in need of a little lift.Ready to give your house some extra blooming energy ahead of summertime? Grab your watering can, scout out the best spots for sunlight, and let’s meet the indoor flowering plants that would be lovely fellow housemates. 1. Orchid (Phalaenopsis)Andreas von Einsiedel//Getty ImagesA London townhouse with a potted orchid. Few indoor plants feel as elegant and refined as the Phalaenopsis orchid. With arching stems and sculptural blooms that last for weeks, it’s the floral equivalent of a well-tailored dress—understated, but unforgettable. Phalaenopsis orchids are surprisingly adaptable to indoor life, preferring bright, indirect light and consistent humidity. While they do require a bit more attention—think of it as light pampering—they reward you with repeated blooms and a space instantly elevated by their prescence. Style them on a bedside table or bathroom shelf for a touch of everyday luxury. And yes, they may look like divas, but with the right care, they’re delightfully low-drama.2. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)FreshSplash//Getty Imagesa women repots a Peace Lily. The Peace Lily is the quiet overachiever of the indoor plant world. Its crisp white blooms and deep green leaves strike a chic, minimalist balance, but it’s the plant’s air-purifying qualities that make it a true standout. Perfect for bedrooms or workspaces, it thrives in low to medium light and even lets you know when it’s thirsty by gently drooping—no guesswork required. The white spathes (often mistaken for flowers, but technically modified leaves) emerge like little calla lilies, adding a clean, sculptural touch to any room. Think of it as your home’s built-in mood softener, with just the right amount of drama.3. Gerbera Daisy (Gerbera jamesonii)Elena Noviello//Getty ImagesA trio of potted Gerbera Daisies receive water. Gerbera daisies are the life of the party—vibrant, cheery, and always in full color. With blooms that span everything from neon pink to tangerine orange, they instantly energize any space. These plants love bright, indirect light and slightly moist soil, so a sunny windowsill suits them perfectly. While they may seem like they belong in a spring bouquet, Gerberas can flower indoors year-round with the right care. They’re ideal for adding a playful touch to kitchens, kids’ rooms, or anywhere that could use a little visual pick-me-up. Bonus: their long-lasting blooms make them look fresh even when your schedule isn’t.4. African Violet (Saintpaulia)Claudia Totir//Getty ImagesA potted African Violet in purple. African violets are proof that big style can come in small pots. Their velvety leaves and candy-colored blooms (think purple, pink, and snowy white) make them a charming addition to any shelf or sill. Unlike fussier flowers, African violets are content with bright, indirect light and light watering—just keep their leaves dry to avoid spotting. They're compact enough to group in clusters for a lush display or let one shine on its own as a delicate detail. Whether you’re going full cottagecore or just want a soft splash of color, this little flower delivers major appeal with minimal effort.5. Bromeliad (Bromeliaceae)Daniela Duncan//Getty ImagesA Bromeliad is in full bloom on a window ledge. Bromeliads are the bold statement earrings of the houseplant world—colorful, architectural, and delightfully unexpected. With rosettes of stiff, green leaves and brightly colored flower spikes that can last for months, they bring a tropical vibe without feeling out of place indoors. They thrive in warm, humid environments and bright, indirect light, which makes them a natural fit for bathrooms or sunny kitchens. Their unique ability to hold water in the central “cup” of their leaves adds a fun twist to care routines, too. Place one on a shelf or windowsill, and let it do what it does best—steal the show.6. Begonia (Begonia spp.)DuKai photographer//Getty ImagesA flower emerges from a Begonia plant. Begonias are a designer’s dream—versatile, expressive, and available in a stunning range of colors and shapes. While some are grown for their richly patterned foliage, flowering varieties offer everything from delicate blush petals to lush, ruffled blooms in shades of scarlet, coral, and lemon. Indoors, they do best with bright, indirect light and consistent moisture (but don’t let them sit in soggy soil). These plants love a little humidity, so keep them near other plants or a pebble tray if the air’s dry. Whether you go bold with a vibrant bloom or subtle with soft pinks, begonias add an artistic flourish to any interior.7. Jasmine (Jasminum)Penpak Ngamsathain//Getty ImagesFlowers burst from a jasmine plant. Jasmine is that rare houseplant that doesn’t just look beautiful—it smells incredible too. Its delicate white or yellow flowers fill a room with the kind of scent that makes you forget you’re indoors. While it’s often grown outdoors, certain varieties like Jasminum polyanthum can thrive inside with enough bright light and a bit of regular pruning. It prefers cooler temperatures and benefits from a sunny spot with good airflow. Perfect for a windowsill or entryway, jasmine offers a sensory experience: visually elegant, softly fragrant, and surprisingly easy to manage. Bonus points if you catch it blooming in winter, when a floral pick-me-up is most welcome.8. Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana)Veena Nair//Getty ImagesA cluster of Kalanchoe flowers emerge in vibrant colors. Kalanchoe is the cheerful, no-fuss flowering plant you didn’t know you needed. This succulent produces clusters of small, vibrant blooms in colors like red, orange, pink, and yellow, and it holds its flowers for weeks on end. Even better? It thrives on neglect. With thick, water-retaining leaves, it only needs occasional watering and prefers bright, indirect light. It’s the perfect choice for new plant parents or anyone who wants the visual drama of flowers without the daily maintenance. Try it on a sunny kitchen counter or tucked into a bookshelf—it brings just the right pop of joy, no green thumb required.9. Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)C. Romance//Getty ImagesA Hibiscus plant in full bloom.Hibiscus indoors? Absolutely—if you’ve got bright light and a flair for the tropical. These plants are known for their oversized, flamboyant blooms that range from fiery reds to sunny yellows and soft peaches. They love direct sunlight and regular watering, and with the right care, they’ll reward you with flowers that feel like tiny vacations. While hibiscus can be a bit more demanding than other houseplants, their blooms are worth the extra attention. Use them to bring resort vibes into your living room or sunroom. Just don’t be surprised when guests ask, “Is that real?”—it is, and it’s thriving.10. Cyclamen (Cyclamen persicum)Predrag Popovski//Getty ImagesCyclamen flowers in a rustic flowerpot. Cyclamen is the cool-weather darling of the flowering houseplant world. With heart-shaped leaves and elegant blooms that float above the foliage like butterflies, this plant is equal parts charming and chic. Flowers come in shades of pink, white, and red, often with delicate ruffled edges. Unlike most houseplants, cyclamen prefer cooler temperatures and bright, indirect light—perfect for drafty apartments or homes with big windows and radiant winter sunlight. Water it from the base to avoid soaking the crown, and you’ll have a happy plant that flowers for months. When everything else is dormant, cyclamen says, “Watch me bloom.”11. Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera)Boy_Anupong//Getty ImagesTwo pots of Christmas Cactus plants in full bloom. The Christmas cactus is a crowd-pleaser that lives up to its name, often bursting into bloom right in time for the holidays. Its cascading stems produce vivid, tubular flowers in shades of red, pink, white, and even coral, offering a bright contrast to winter’s gloom. Unlike typical desert cacti, this one hails from the rainforest, so it prefers indirect light and a bit more humidity. Water it when the soil feels dry, but don’t let it sit soggy—this plant appreciates moderation. With just a little attention, it can bloom multiple times a year, making it feel like your home is always in season.12. Fuchsia (Fuchsia spp.)Shimon Gabai / 500px//Getty ImagesA cluster of Fuchsia flowers. Fuchsia is basically wearing a ballgown at all times. Its dramatic, dangling blooms look like tiny chandeliers in shades of magenta, purple, pink, and red. Indoors, it needs bright, indirect light and slightly moist soil, but it’s well worth the effort for the payoff in floral flair. This plant loves cooler temps and good air circulation, making it a fun, unexpected choice for a bright corner or a hanging basket in a breezy room. While fuchsia isn’t the easiest houseguest (she can be picky), her flair for drama and vibrant personality more than make up for the high-maintenance moments.13. Alyssum (Lobularia maritima)Kinga Krzeminska//Getty ImagesTiny clusters of Alyssum burst out of a pot. Alyssum is the low-key charmer that sneaks up on you with its sweet scent and dainty appeal. These plants produce tiny clusters of fragrant flowers in white, pink, or lavender—and they bloom generously when given enough light. Though more common in outdoor gardens, alyssum can thrive indoors with bright light and cooler temperatures, especially near a sunny window or in a breezy kitchen. The plant’s soft, trailing habit makes it perfect for window boxes or small hanging pots. It may not be the loudest in the room, but alyssum’s subtle fragrance and delicate beauty create a quiet kind of magic.14. Lantana (Lantana camara)C. Romance//Getty ImagesOrange Lantanas can bring vibrancy to any room. Lantana is the rebel in the group—sun-loving, slightly wild, and always dressed in the most outrageous colors. These flowering plants produce cheerful clusters in every combination imaginable: pink with orange, yellow with red, even lavender with cream. Indoors, they need plenty of direct light and prefer well-draining soil, so think sunny windowsills and a light touch on the watering can. While technically a perennial shrub in warmer climates, lantana can thrive inside if given the right conditions. It’s a great way to bring summer energy into your home all year round—no SPF required.15. Camellia (Camellia japonica)Olga Peshkova//Getty ImagesA Camellia plant is as elegant as it is cheerful. Camellias are the debutantes of the indoor plant world: elegant, refined, and just a little bit high-maintenance. With glossy dark leaves and lush blooms in pink, red, or white, they add an old-world charm to modern interiors. These beauties prefer cooler temps and bright, indirect light, which makes them a perfect fit for sunrooms or cool, draft-free corners. They need consistent moisture (but not soggy soil), and they don’t like to be moved around—so once you find the right spot, let them settle in. When they bloom, usually in late winter or early spring, it’s nothing short of spectacular.16. Clivia (Clivia miniata)Haoying Chen / 500px//Getty ImagesA Clivia in bloom is a striking focal point in any room. Clivia is the understated superstar of flowering houseplants, offering bold orange blooms that feel like a burst of sunshine indoors. These plants are relatively low-maintenance, making them perfect for those who want a dramatic flower without the high maintenance. They thrive in bright, indirect light and prefer to dry out between waterings, which makes them great for those with busy schedules. A Clivia in bloom is a spectacular sight—its trumpet-shaped flowers appear in clusters, creating a vibrant pop of color that lasts for weeks. Place it in a well-lit corner or on a shelf for a striking focal point.17. Impatiens (Impatiens walleriana)Carol Yepes//Getty ImagesA showy pot of Impatiens is in full bloom.If you’re looking for a splash of color, impatiens have you covered. Known for their vibrant, showy blooms in shades of red, pink, white and purple, these plants thrive in low to medium light and are ideal for areas that may not get tons of sunlight. Perfect for filling in the gaps on a windowsill, impatiens are easy to care for, requiring only regular watering to keep their blossoms fresh. Their lush, full blooms add an elegant pop of color to any room, and their soft, trailing foliage makes them perfect for hanging baskets or cascading over the edges of planters.18. Hoya (Hoya spp.)jopstock//Getty ImagesThe Hoya flowers are a classic look that isn’t flashy. Hoya, or wax plants, may not be as flashy as some of their counterparts, but their unique waxy flowers and trailing vines more than make up for it. These plants bloom in clusters of small, star-shaped flowers, often in shades of white, pink, or red, which feel almost too perfect to be real. Hoya thrives in bright, indirect light, and it’s forgiving when it comes to watering, preferring to dry out between drinks. Ideal for a hanging basket or trailing down a shelf, Hoyas bring a touch of elegance and whimsy to any room—perfect for those who like a bit of subtle drama in their plant collection.19. Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium)lingqi xie//Getty ImagesChrysanthemums are a classic voluminous bloom. Chrysanthemums, or mums, are the quintessential fall flower, but they’re just as stylish indoors. These plants produce lush, full blooms in an array of vibrant hues, from deep purples to fiery reds and bright yellows. They thrive in full sunlight, making them ideal for bright rooms or south-facing windows. Mums prefer a cool environment and regular watering, and they’re known for their ability to bloom for several weeks, bringing a long-lasting burst of color to your home. Whether you use them to add warmth to a fall table setting or to brighten up a dull corner, chrysanthemums deliver undeniable style.20. Tuberous Begonia (Begonia tuberosa)Pakin Songmor//Getty ImagesTuberous Begonias flowers are the epitome of tropical beautyTuberous begonias are the epitome of tropical beauty, with their large, ruffled flowers that come in bold shades like orange, pink, red, and yellow. These plants prefer bright, indirect light and benefit from regular watering, though it’s essential to avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. The large blooms appear on thin stems, adding a sense of drama and grace to any indoor garden. With their striking flowers and compact size, tuberous begonias are perfect for creating a tropical oasis on your windowsill or desk. They're perfect for adding a pop of color and personality, whether you’re in a minimalist space or a vibrant, eclectic home.Rachel SilvaAssociate Digital EditorRachel Silva is the associate digital editor at ELLE DECOR, where she covers all things design, architecture, and lifestyle. She also oversees the publication’s feature article coverage, and is, at any moment, knee-deep in an investigation on everything from the best spa gifts to the best faux florals on the internet right now. She has more than 16 years of experience in editorial, working as a photo assignment editor at Time and acting as the president of Women in Media in NYC. She went to Columbia Journalism School, and her work has been nominated for awards from ASME, the Society of Publication Designers, and World Press Photo.