15 Best Plants for Top of Cabinet
Are you looking to add a touch of nature to your kitchen? 🌿
There’s nothing quite like the sight of lush plants atop your cabinets, bringing life and color to the space.
I’ve discovered that choosing the right plants can make your kitchen feel fresh and inviting, even if you don’t have a green thumb.
Do you have a favorite plant that thrives up high?
I love how some plants not only look great but also need minimal care.
It’s amazing how a few strategic greens can transform your home.
Let’s dive into the best plants to elevate your kitchen decor! 🌱
Please note: Simplify Plants is reader-supported. Some links in the post are affiliate links and I get a commission from purchases made through links in the post.
1) Golden Pothos

Golden Pothos is my go-to plant for adding some green to the top of my cabinets.
It’s super easy to care for and perfect for those of us who might forget to water their plants sometimes. 😅
I love that this plant can thrive in low light, making it perfect if your cabinets are in a slightly darker corner of the room.
You just need to water it every 7-10 days. If the soil is dry and the leaves are drooping, then it’s time for a drink.
Have you ever tried propagating plants?
Golden Pothos is a great starter if you haven’t. Just cut a piece of the vine with a few leaves, stick it in water, and wait for roots to grow. It’s like magic! ✨
Another thing I adore about Golden Pothos is its air-purifying abilities. It helps clean the air in your home, which is a nice bonus! Plus, its trailing vines can create a lovely, cascading effect over the edge of the cabinet.
Do you keep plants on top of your cabinets? How do they do there? Share your experiences in the comments! 🌿
2) Spider Plant

One of my favorite picks for the top of a cabinet is the Spider Plant. These plants are tough and can thrive in many conditions.
They have long, arching leaves that spill over the sides, creating a lovely cascading effect. 🌿 How cool is that?
Spider plants are great because they don’t need direct sunlight. Just a bit of indirect light, and they’re happy. This makes them perfect for those higher shelves where direct sunlight might be hard to come by.
Did you know that Spider Plants help purify the air? They can remove toxins like formaldehyde from the air, which is super awesome for our homes.
These plants are also pretty forgiving if you forget to water them once in a while.
They thrive in well-draining pots, making maintenance a breeze. Just make sure the pot has good drainage holes to avoid root rot.
I usually place my Spider Plant in a terracotta pot. Terracotta helps with airflow to the roots and can absorb excess moisture. This helps keep the plant healthy and happy.
Temperature-wise, Spider Plants love it cozy. They do best in temperatures between 60°F to 80°F (16°C to 27°C). Too hot or too cold, and they might slow down their growth.
Do you have one of these green beauties? Share your experience with Spider Plants in the comments! 🌱👀
3) English Ivy

English Ivy is one of my favorite plants to place on top of kitchen cabinets.
It’s easy to grow and adds a touch of nature to any space. With its lush, green vines, it can transform bland cabinet tops into a vibrant display.
What’s amazing about English Ivy is how it cascades down beautifully. It doesn’t just sit there; it drapes gracefully. Imagine those green vines hanging over your cabinets – totally Instagram-worthy! 🌿
Ivy grows well with just a bit of care. It needs bright, indirect light and likes its soil to be slightly moist.
I remember when I first got mine, I placed it near a kitchen window. It’s been thriving ever since!
Here’s a quick tip: trim the ends of the vines to encourage bushier growth. A fuller plant looks much more appealing.
If you’ve got kids or pets, though, keep in mind that English Ivy can be toxic if ingested. So, placing it on high cabinet tops is a win-win situation.
Do you already have English Ivy in your home? If yes, where do you keep it? If no, are you tempted to get one now? Tell me in the comments! 😊
Adding English Ivy to your space not only brings in nature but also keeps the air fresh.
I’ve noticed a slight improvement in the air quality since adding it to my kitchen. Greenery and clean air – what’s not to love? 🌱
Feel free to share your experience with English Ivy or ask questions about taking care of it. I’d love to hear from you!
4) ZZ Plant

The ZZ Plant is an absolute gem for placing on the top of your cabinet. Why? It’s super low-maintenance! Even if you forget to water it occasionally, it’ll still thrive.
I love how it looks so full and leafy without much effort 🌿.
These plants are often called the “Eternity Plant” because they’re nearly impossible to kill. Perfect for those of us who don’t have the greenest thumb!
Have you ever had a plant you struggled to keep alive? Not with this one!
One thing to keep in mind: ZZ Plants prefer indirect light. Direct sunlight can give them sunburn (yes, plants can get sunburn too!), with brown patches appearing on the leaves. Just place it in a spot where it gets some light without being in the sun all day.
When it comes to watering, less is more.
ZZ Plants can handle being watered every couple of weeks. It’s better to underwater than overwater them. Trust me, I’ve learned this the hard way.
Another great feature is that ZZ Plants can tolerate temperature fluctuations. So, if you live in a place where it’s hot in the summer and cold in the winter, this plant can handle it. They thrive in temperatures between 60-75°F.
Have you had experience with ZZ Plants before? Share your stories in the comments! 🌱✨
5) Snake Plant

Sometimes, I need a plant that’s almost impossible to kill. That’s where the Snake Plant comes in! 🌱
These hardy plants are perfect for the top of your cabinet because they can survive in low light and don’t need a lot of water.
Snake Plants, also called Sansevieria or Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, have long, attractive leaves that stand straight up. Some varieties can grow up to 3 feet tall. Imagine that striking green against your kitchen cabinets!
One popular type is the Sansevieria Trifasciata, known for its bold green and white stripes. It’s like having a piece of modern art sitting on your cabinet.
Have you ever tried growing one of these? They’re pretty great at filtering out toxins from the air too. 🌿
Another cool thing about Snake Plants is that they’re pretty forgiving.
If I neglect it a bit (we all have our busy weeks), it’s still going strong. 💪
Snake Plants can handle a little shade, making them super versatile for different spots in your home.
And guess what? There are mini versions too! If a 3-foot plant feels too much, you can opt for the dwarf varieties which only grow about 6-10 inches tall. Perfect for smaller spaces or those tricky cabinet tops. 🪴
Do you already have a Snake Plant or thinking of getting one? Drop your thoughts in the comments below! Can’t wait to hear about your plant adventures. 🌟
6) Burro’s Tail

I love Burro’s Tail for those hard-to-reach spots like the top of cabinets.
This trailing succulent has long, thick stems that spill over, creating a lush, cascading look 🌿. It’s a real eye-catcher!
One of the coolest things about Burro’s Tail is its unique, plump leaves. They resemble tiny, green beads or mini bananas. It’s like having a little piece of the desert in your home!
These plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Too much direct sun can scorch their delicate leaves, so be cautious!
Do you have a sunny kitchen? This might be perfect for your top cabinets.
Watering a Burro’s Tail takes a bit of finesse. Like most succulents, they don’t need much.
I typically let the soil dry out completely before giving it a light drink. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s better to err on the dry side.
If you keep your home between 65-75°F, your Burro’s Tail will be happy.
These plants don’t like it too cold, so avoid placing them in a drafty area or near air conditioning vents 🌀.
One thing to note: Burro’s Tail can be a bit fragile. The leaves tend to fall off if you handle them roughly.
Handle with care, and you’ll avoid a mess of tiny leaves all over your floor.
Fertilizing monthly during the growing season can give them a little boost. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer will do the trick.
What’s your favorite spot to place a Burro’s Tail? Share your thoughts and photos in the comments below! 🌱📸
7) Philodendron

Have you ever thought of putting a Philodendron on top of your cabinet?
These plants are super easy to care for and add a lush vibe to any space. 🌿
They love warmer temperatures, ideally between 60-85 degrees Fahrenheit, making them perfect for indoor spots.
Philodendrons come in many varieties. Some climb and some don’t. For cabinet tops, I recommend the non-climbing types.
One favorite of mine is the Philodendron ‘Green Congo’. It has glossy, dark green leaves and grows upright, so it won’t trail downward.
Worried about plant stress? Keep your Philodendron away from heating or cooling vents. These plants don’t like sudden temperature changes. Also, drafts can be a bummer for them!
Have you placed one on your cabinet yet? What do you think? Let’s chat in the comments below! 😊
8) Asparagus Fern

One of my favorite plants for the top of a cabinet is the Asparagus Fern!
This plant has a unique, lush look with small, needle-like fronds that give it an airy feel. It’s perfect for adding some green to your space without taking up too much room.
Placing an asparagus fern on a cabinet can really elevate your decor. It’s a climbing plant, so its fronds will gracefully drape over the edge, making it a great pick if you want something that looks dramatic but doesn’t require a tall plant.
One of the things I love most about asparagus ferns is their hardiness.
They thrive in indirect light, which is perfect for rooms where you might not have direct sunlight streaming in. Plus, they can handle a bit of neglect. Just make sure to water when the top inch of soil feels dry. 🌿
Daily misting can boost their happiness, especially if your home tends to be dry. Warm, humid air is their best friend. 🌡️
A small tip: keep an eye out for thorns on the stems. They can be prickly, so keep them out of reach of little hands or curious pets.
Have you tried growing an asparagus fern before? Did you place it on a high shelf or somewhere else? 🌟 Let me know in the comments! I love hearing how others incorporate these beautiful plants into their homes.
9) Chinese Evergreen

When it comes to Chinese Evergreen, I’m always amazed by how easy it is to care for. This plant is a fantastic choice for the top of a cabinet because of its ability to thrive in low light.
One thing I love about the Chinese Evergreen is its beautiful, lush leaves. Depending on the variety, the leaves can have lovely patterns of green, white, or even pink. These stunning colors can really brighten up a space. 🌿🌟
The Chinese Evergreen doesn’t need constant attention. Just give it some indirect light, and it will be happy. Sometimes I even forget to water mine, and it still looks great!
If you’re like me and can be a bit forgetful, you’ll appreciate this hardy plant.
Humidity is a plus for this plant, but it’s not super picky. I’ve found that placing it in a bathroom or near a kitchen window works wonders. The moisture in the air from showers or cooking makes it thrive.
Got a small apartment or limited space? No worries! Young Chinese Evergreen plants are compact and can fit perfectly on smaller surfaces. Plus, they grow slowly, so you won’t need to repot them often.
Have kids or pets? While the Chinese Evergreen is safe to be around, it’s always best to keep plants out of their reach just to be safe. Curious hands or paws can still cause trouble!
What do you think? Have you ever had a Chinese Evergreen in your home? Share your thoughts in the comments below! I’d love to hear your experiences.
10) Peace Lily

I love Peace Lilies! They’re one of my go-to plants for brightening up those hard-to-reach spots like the top of a cabinet. Have you ever thought about adding one to your space?
Peace Lilies have beautiful white blooms and dark green leaves that look stunning in any room. Plus, they don’t need a ton of sunlight. Indirect light is perfect, making them super easy to care for.
One of the best things about Peace Lilies is their air-purifying ability. They actually help remove toxins from the air. 🌿 How cool is that? So, not only do they look good, they’re good for you too!
When it comes to watering, Peace Lilies like their soil to be moist but not soggy. Make sure your pot has drainage holes to prevent root rot. If you’re like me and sometimes forget to water, don’t worry. These plants are pretty forgiving.
Another tip: their large leaves can get dusty. I simply wipe them down with a damp cloth every now and then to keep them shiny and healthy. A little care goes a long way with these beauties.
What’s your favorite spot to put a Peace Lily? Let me know in the comments! 🌸
11) Bamboo Palm

One of my favorite plants for the top of a cabinet is the Bamboo Palm. It has a tropical vibe that can make any room feel like an oasis. And guess what? It’s also great for purifying air, so you get a double win! 🌿
Bamboo Palms do best in bright, indirect light. Don’t worry if you don’t have tons of sunlight, they’re pretty adaptable. Just make sure to keep them out of direct sun to avoid scorched leaves.
These palms thrive with regular watering. I like to water mine when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Try using a pot with drainage holes to prevent water from pooling at the bottom. Trust me, no one likes root rot! 💧
Humidity is another key factor. Think of a rainforest—they love it damp! If your home is dry, you can boost the humidity by placing a shallow tray filled with water and pebbles under the pot. A humidifier works too.
Feeding them is easy. A balanced liquid fertilizer every month or two during the growing season keeps them happy.
Another pro tip: make sure the temperature stays between 65°F and 80°F. These palms hate the cold as much as I do! ❄️
Sometimes, you might find the leaves turning brown. Don’t panic! Trim those off to keep your palm looking tidy. It helps the plant focus its energy on new growth.
Do you have a Bamboo Palm? Share your plant care tips in the comments! 💚
12) Dwarf Umbrella Tree

Ever heard of the Dwarf Umbrella Tree? 🌿 This plant is perfect for adding a touch of green to the top of your cabinet. It has vibrant, glossy leaves that spread out like an umbrella, giving it a unique and charming look.
One thing I love about this plant is its low maintenance. It’s quite easy to care for! You just need to make sure you water it when the top layer of soil feels dry. Simple, right?
Another tip is to use room temperature water. Let tap water sit for 24 hours to dissipate chemicals or use distilled water if possible. This ensures the plant stays healthy and happy.
The Dwarf Umbrella Tree enjoys indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so place it somewhere it gets bright but indirect light. It’s as easy as finding the right spot in your home.
Did you know you can propagate this plant? All you need are some healthy stem cuttings. Just cut a piece right below the leaf node and place it in water or soil. It’s a fun project if you want more of these lovely plants.
What do you think about having a Dwarf Umbrella Tree at home? 🌱 Share your thoughts in the comments!
13) Cast Iron Plant

I love the Cast Iron Plant for its durability and elegance. 🌿 It’s a real trooper that thrives where many other plants would struggle. Its deep green leaves are not only beautiful but also tough as nails.
This plant earned its name because it can survive conditions that would make other plants wilt. Low light? No problem! It’s perfect for those spots in your home that don’t get much sunlight.
Interesting fact: The leaves of the Cast Iron Plant are so versatile that they’re even used in floristry. They make amazing leaf ribbons for floral arrangements and gift wrapping!
One of my favorite varieties is the Hoshi-zora, which means “starry sky” in Japanese. The leaves have tiny light speckles, giving them a sparkling appearance like stars. It’s nature’s little masterpiece!
When it comes to care, it’s pretty easygoing. Keep the soil lightly moist, especially during its growing season from late spring to early fall. Just let it dry out a bit between waterings.
Be cautious with direct sunlight though. Too much direct sunlight, especially in a west-facing window, can dry out the plant. It’s happiest in indirect light or shady spots.
Have you tried growing a Cast Iron Plant? Share your tips or ask questions in the comments below! Let’s get chatting about this remarkable plant! 🌱✨
14) Heartleaf Philodendron

Heartleaf Philodendrons are one of my favorite plants for the top of a cabinet. 🪴 It’s also known as the sweetheart plant because of its heart-shaped leaves. These plants are tough and can thrive in low light, making them perfect for spots that don’t get direct sunlight.
I love how easy they are to care for. Water them when the top inch of soil dries out, but avoid letting them sit in water. It’s so satisfying to see those trailing stems cascade down from the cabinet!
This plant prefers warm temperatures between 65-85°F (18-30°C). It’s also pretty forgiving, so a bit of neglect now and then won’t harm it. Just keep it away from cold drafts and temperatures below 55°F (13°C).
Heartleaf Philodendrons can grow long vines, which look stunning hanging down from high places. ✨ You can prune them if they get too wild, but sometimes, a little wildness adds character.
For feeding, use a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during spring and summer. Let it rest during fall and winter – no fertilizer needed then.
Have you tried growing a Heartleaf Philodendron before? Share your experiences in the comments! 🌿
15) Maidenhair Fern

Maidenhair Fern is an absolute gem for the top of your cabinet! 🌿 It adds an elegant, delicate touch to any room. These ferns have lacy, fan-shaped leaves that can make your cabinet look like a mini rainforest.
One important thing to remember is that Maidenhair Ferns love moisture. Keep their soil consistently moist, but not soggy. You can achieve this by using a plastic pot with drainage holes. 🌼
Do you often forget to water your plants? 🙈 If so, Maidenhair Fern might need a little extra attention. They thrive in a humid environment, and drying out even once can make them sad. 😢 I recommend placing it near a humidity source or misting it regularly.
Temperature also plays a big role in keeping these beauties happy. They prefer to stay between 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). Keep them away from direct sun because too much sunlight can scorch their leaves.
Another tip: Be on lookout for yellow leaves, which might mean you are overwatering. And don’t worry if you see a few brown lower leaves – that’s just part of their natural growth process.
Creative Display Ideas
I love making my plants look extra special by using creative display ideas. Here are some ways you can use decorative pots and plant stands to transform the top of your cabinet into a lively, green space.
Using Decorative Pots
One way to make your plant display pop is with decorative pots. They come in various colors, shapes, and sizes, adding a unique touch to your decor.
Choose pots that complement your room’s color scheme or go bold with contrasting colors. 🌈
Mix and match different styles, like ceramic pots for a classic look, or glass pots for a modern twist.
If you’re crafty, you can even paint your own designs on plain pots. This is a fun way to personalize your plant display and show off your artistic side.
Grouping plants in pots of different heights creates a visually appealing arrangement. You can place small succulents in tiny pots alongside larger leafy plants.
Don’t be afraid to get creative! For an even more unique look, consider using vintage mugs, teapots, or any interesting container that can hold soil and plants.
Incorporating Plant Stands
Using plant stands is another fantastic way to elevate your greenery, quite literally!
Plant stands come in various shapes and materials, from wooden ladders to metal frames. They help create layers, making your plant display more dynamic.
I love using multi-tiered stands because they let me showcase several plants at different levels. This not only saves space but also creates a beautiful cascading effect. 🌿
Another idea is to use floating shelves above your cabinet to add even more dimension and height to your plant collection.
Think about combining different types of stands for a more interesting look.
For instance, a tall stand next to a shorter one can create a visually balanced display. If you have a small space, corner plant stands are perfect for making use of every inch.
So, which type of stand will you try?
Encourage your creativity with these ideas, and don’t forget to share your plant displays in the comments. 🌱
FAQs
Q: How do I know which plants are suitable for the top of my cabinets?
A: You’ll want plants that don’t need a lot of direct sunlight and are easy to care for.
Think about how much light your kitchen gets and choose accordingly. 🌿
Q: Do these plants need special soil or pots?
A: Most plants will thrive in regular well-draining soil. Pots with drainage holes are ideal to avoid overwatering. Easy enough, right?
Q: How often should I water these plants?
A: It depends on the plant, but a general rule is once a week for most types.
Check if the soil is dry before watering. Overwatering is a big no-no!
Q: Are these plants safe for pets?
A: Not all plants are pet-friendly.
Pothos and Peace Lilies, for example, can be toxic to pets. Always check if a plant is safe for your furry friends. 🐶🐱
Q: Can these plants help with air quality?
A: Some plants like the Peace Lily can break down toxic gases. It’s like having a little air purifier on top of your cabinets!
Q: My kitchen doesn’t get a lot of light. What should I do?
A: No worries! Boston Ferns and Pothos do well in low light.
You can also use grow lights to help out.
Q: Should I trim or prune these plants?
A: Yes, occasional trimming can keep your plants looking neat. Plus, it helps the plant grow better. Win-win!
Q: What about pests?
A: Keep an eye out for common pests like aphids or spider mites.
Regularly check and keep the plants clean. No one wants bugs in the kitchen!
Do you have other questions? Ask me in the comments! I’d love to help. 😊
Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed exploring these 15 best plants for the top of your cabinets with me! 🌿✨
Adding these plants can truly transform your kitchen space with their vibrant greenery.
Remember, plants like Boston Fern and Pothos are not only beautiful but also relatively easy to maintain.
Even if you don’t have a green thumb, artificial plants can be a great alternative to bring life to your kitchen.
Keeping plants on top of your cabinets is a fantastic way to use that often overlooked space. Plus, it adds a touch of nature and freshness.
Have you tried placing any plants on your cabinets?
Let me know your favorites or any new plants you think I should check out! 🌱💚
Drop your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to share your pics in our facebook page! 📸✨
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