If you’ve stepped inside any Sydney home, office, or café recently, you’ve likely noticed something green and thriving, a fiddle leaf fig standing tall in the corner, a pothos cascading over a bookshelf, or a group of tiny succulents clustered on a windowsill. Indoor plants aren’t just a trend in Sydney. They’ve become a lifestyle choice, a home décor staple, and for many, a source of daily joy and wellbeing.
But why exactly has Sydney fallen so deeply in love with indoor plants? And where are the best places to buy them, whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or a total newbie with a tendency to overwater?
Let’s dig into the roots of this growing obsession.
The Rise of the “Plant Parent” in Sydney
Over the past few years, indoor plants have evolved from being decorative add ons to meaningful parts of people’s homes and routines. The shift began subtly, as minimalism and natural aesthetics gained popularity. But during the COVID lockdowns, the plant boom exploded. With more time spent indoors and a greater focus on mental health, people turned to greenery for comfort.
In Sydney, where apartment living is common, especially in inner city suburbs like Surry Hills, Newtown, and Potts Point, indoor plants bring a bit of the outdoors inside. They brighten rooms, soften hard edges, and create a calming sense of nature, even in high rise settings.
But it’s more than just aesthetics. Studies show that plants improve air quality, reduce stress, and boost productivity. For many Sydneysiders, the simple act of watering, repotting, or just watching new leaves unfurl is therapeutic, a gentle reminder to slow down and connect with something alive.
The Instagram Effect
Social media has also played a huge role in Sydney’s plant movement. Instagram is filled with local influencers and stylists showing off stunning indoor jungles and curated plant corners. Platforms like TikTok and Pinterest share tutorials on how to propagate plants, design shelf displays, or choose the right light for your Monstera.
This has inspired a wave of creativity and pride in plant ownership. “Plant parenting” is now a common phrase, and plant swaps, propagation clubs, and even plant cafés are popping up across the city.
Which Plants Do Sydney Locals Love Most?
While every plant parent has their favourites, some varieties have reached near icon status in Sydney:
- Fiddle Leaf Fig – Tall, dramatic, and a bit temperamental. Perfect for bright corners.
- Monstera Deliciosa – Also known as the Swiss Cheese Plant, loved for its bold leaves.
- Pothos and Devil’s Ivy – Great for beginners. Easy to grow and hard to kill.
- Snake Plant (Sansevieria) – Ideal for low light and forgetful waterers.
- Rubber Plant – Adds a deep green (or burgundy) pop to minimalist spaces.
- Peace Lily – Elegant with occasional white blooms, plus great air-purifying qualities.
These plants not only suit Sydney’s indoor climate but also match the city’s design sensibilities, modern, lush, and clean.
Where to Buy Indoor Plants in Sydney
So, where are locals sourcing their leafy companions? Sydney is filled with fantastic spots, from boutique plant stores to sprawling nurseries. Here are some of the best places to start your plant journey:
1. The Plant Society – St Peters
This stylish plant boutique has become an icon in Sydney’s indoor gardening scene. More than just a shop, The Plant Society offers workshops, plant styling advice, and a carefully curated range of pots and accessories.
Expect designer level greenery here; think sculptural cacti, lush ferns, and hanging planters you’ll want to photograph from every angle.
📍 Where: Precinct 75, St Peters
🪴 Vibe: Sophisticated, artsy, community driven
2. Flower Power – Across Sydney
With locations in Enfield, Mascot, Milperra, and more, Flower Power is a trusted go to for all things green. Their indoor plant sections are huge, and staff are always happy to offer advice.
It’s perfect for picking up established statement plants at reasonable prices, and there’s usually a café nearby to reward yourself after a big haul.
📍 Where: Multiple locations
🪴 Vibe: Big selection, reliable, beginner-friendly
3. Jungle Collective – Pop up Events
Jungle Collective runs indoor plant warehouse sales that have achieved cult status in Sydney. These pop up events bring hundreds of discounted plants to rotating venues, think monsteras, fiddle leafs, calatheas, and rare varieties, all in one spot.
They’re fun, chaotic, and a great way to grab a bargain. Keep an eye on their social media for the next event.
📍 Where: Varies (follow their Instagram)
🪴 Vibe: Lively, great deals, plant-hunting adventure
4. Leaf Supply – Online and Delivery
Don’t want to lug a giant pot across the city? Leaf Supply offers a beautifully designed online store with indoor plants delivered straight to your door. Their packaging is eco friendly, and each plant comes with care instructions.
They also sell gift bundles, perfect for birthdays, housewarmings, or sending a bit of greenery to someone who needs it.
📍 Where: Online
🪴 Vibe: Modern, thoughtful, stress-free
5. Collectors Plant Fair – Annual Event
If you’re serious about rare or unusual plants, the annual Collectors Plant Fair in Clarendon (about an hour from Sydney) is a must visit. It’s where growers from all over NSW come together to showcase species you won’t find in your local nursery.
Even if you’re not buying, it’s a feast for the senses and a great day out for any plant enthusiast.
📍 Where: Clarendon (April each year)
🪴 Vibe: Rare, niche, green wonderland
Tips for First Time Plant Parents
If you’re new to indoor plants, here are a few local friendly tips to get started:
- Know your light. Most Sydney homes have decent natural light but it matters where you place your plant. North facing windows usually offer the most light.
- Start slow. Begin with one or two easy care plants like pothos or snake plants before jumping into the deep end with ferns or calatheas.
- Don’t overwater. This is the number one killer of indoor plants. Check soil moisture first, and water less in winter.
- Choose the right pot. Always use pots with drainage holes, or keep plants in nursery pots and use decorative outer planters.
- Ask for help. Local plant stores are full of friendly, knowledgeable staff, don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Final Thoughts
In a fast paced city like Sydney, it makes perfect sense that so many locals are turning to indoor plants. They offer beauty, calm, and connection all things we need a little more of in modern life. Whether you’re creating a tiny urban jungle or just adding a pop of green to your desk, the indoor plant movement is here to stay.
So if you haven’t already joined the plant parent club, this winter might just be the perfect time to bring some leafy life into your space.
