What should no home be without? For many it’s original art, an unexpected pop of color, or an interesting window. But when it comes to accessorizing, how about plants? As design resource PointClickHome.com points out, “Whether your thumb is green or not, a great houseplant does round out a room. And I’m not talking about a couple of pots of African violets (too small and fussy) or a ficus tree (too much shedding).”

So which varieties should you gravitate to? According to the article, choose plants that can do double-duty “as green sculptures, adding shape as well as liveliness to an interior—a bigger specimen is always better than waiting for a smaller one to grow to optimum size.”

Also important to keep in mind: Maintenance. “Remember to wipe smooth-surface leaves regularly with a damp cloth and trim off dead or dying bits. And it’s best to keep the plant contained in a plastic pot tucked inside a decorative basket or cachepot. That way if it bites the dust, you can replace it easily.”

Need a few more examples on how to make your house Houseplant-Hip? Check out the slideshow on PointClickHome.com.