At Planteka, we believe that plants do more than decorate — they transform spaces and reconnect us with nature. Through workshops and courses in Barcelona, Madrid, and Valencia, along with online training and plant design and care services, we help you create greener, more balanced homes full of life.

If you dream of a lush corner that transports you to the tropics, creating a mini jungle at home is easier than it seems. You don’t need much space — just the right mix of species, some thoughtful combinations, and a few design tricks to bring that fresh, vibrant energy to your space.

1. The essence of the “jungle style”

The urban jungle look is all about abundance and diversity. Mix plants of different sizes, shapes, and textures to create a sense of life and movement. There’s no strict order here — large leaves coexist with vines, ferns, and hanging plants, imitating the richness of a tropical forest.

Key tip: natural is beautiful. Don’t aim for perfect symmetry — let leaves grow freely and stems intertwine.

2. Design your green space

Before buying new plants, observe the light in your room. Most tropical species need bright, indirect light, so choose a spot near a window with a sheer curtain.

• Height and volume: Combine tall plants (like Monstera deliciosa or Strelitzia nicolai) with medium ones (Calathea, Dieffenbachia, Philodendron) and hanging species (Epipremnum, Scindapsus, Rhipsalis).
• Grouping: Arrange plants in clusters of three or five at different heights to create depth and a more organic feel.
• Textures: Alternate broad, glossy leaves with finer or feathery foliage (like ferns or Chamaedorea elegans).

👉 Want to learn more about choosing the right container for each plant? Check out our guide

How to choose the right pot for your plant

3. How to combine plants for a balanced tropical effect

The secret lies in harmonious contrast:

• Color: Mix deep greens with lime tones or variegated leaves (Philodendron Brasil, Syngonium, Calathea makoyana).
• Shape: Pair rounded leaves (Pilea peperomioides) with elongated ones (Dracaena marginata).
• Sheen: Combine glossy foliage (Hoya, Ficus elastica) with matte ones (Maranta leuconeura).

If space allows, add a hanging or climbing touch to wrap the area in greenery. An Epipremnum, Monstera adansonii, or Philodendron micans can add volume without taking up floor space.

Monstera adansonii: our guide to the swiss cheese vine

4. Basic care to keep your jungle alive

Tropical plants need not only light but also humidity and consistency:

• Watering: Keep the soil slightly moist but never soggy.
• Humidity: Mist leaves or group plants together to increase humidity naturally. You can also use humidifiers or pebble trays with water.
• Cleaning: Wipe dust off the leaves with a damp cloth to allow them to breathe and maintain their glossy appearance.
• Fertilising: Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser every 2–3 weeks during spring and summer.

5. How to organize your space: height, furniture, and visual balance

To make your jungle look natural yet cohesive, think in layers of height and focal points:

• Floor plants: Place the largest ones (like Monstera, Strelitzia, or Ficus lyrata) in large pots directly on the floor or elevated on wooden stands — they form the foundation of your green setup.
• Shelves and furniture: Use open shelves or bamboo ladders to play with different levels. Mix trailing plants (Philodendron hederaceum, Pothos) with compact ones (Peperomia, Fittonia).
• Hanging pots: Add lightness and vertical movement. Hang them at various heights and mix natural materials like wicker, coco fiber, or ceramic.
• Side tables and stools: Perfect for lifting medium-sized plants and creating layered groupings.
• Furniture and colours: Choose neutral tones, light wood, or natural fibers so the green stands out.
• Lighting: If your space is dim, combine natural light with full-spectrum lamps or grow lights.

💡 Planteka tip: Avoid lining up all your plants on the same surface. Overlap them, cross leaves, and leave small gaps to create depth and a feeling of abundance.

👉 For more ideas on vertical layouts, read

Growing up: Your guide to vertical gardening at home

The magic of a mini jungle lies in observation and patience. Adjust placement according to light, and water only when needed. In just a few weeks, your green corner will start to feel like its own little ecosystem — calm, lush, and full of life.

If you’d like to learn more about how to choose, combine, and care for plants according to your space and style, we recommend our Beginner Gardening Course, available in Barcelona, Madrid, and Valencia.

🌱 Discover all our workshops and courses here

How to choose plants for my terrace?