Looking to add a mysterious Wednesday Addams-inspired gothic touch to your home? Plant experts reveal a list of mysterious houseplants that move by themselves at night
If you thought nature couldn’t get any stranger, it turns out there are houseplants that will move all on their own without anyone watching.
As season two of the much-anticipated Wednesday kicks off, many are being inspired by the show’s offbeat Gothic atmosphere and are looking to recreate it in their own homes. So, whether you’re a Wednesday fan or simply want to add some dark intrigue to your living space, plant experts from Beards and Daisies have revealed a list of “quietly strange” houseplants that move by themselves.
These plants are known to shift, curl and otherwise respond to their environments, all without any interference from humans. To maximise the aesthetic, Beards and Daisies suggests: “Pair these plants with moody, textured pots, think matte black, deep marble, cracked ceramic, or charcoal grey, for a look that blends dark bohemian with soft gothic influences, perfectly suited to a more atmospheric interior style.”
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Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)
Beards and Daisies says: “Known for its patterned foliage and distinct leaf movements, the Prayer Plant folds its leaves upward at night. This response helps reduce moisture loss and mimics a prayer-like posture, hence the name.”
Oxalis triangularis
This plant has gorgeous deep purple, triangular leaves and is known to react to light. Beards and Daisies explains: “Leaves open wide during the day and fold down at dusk, creating a dynamic visual shift.”
Stromanthe Triostar
Beards and Daisies says: “Variegated in pink, cream, and green, the Triostar’s leaves lift vertically in low light. This upward motion enhances its sculptural presence after dark.”
Calathea orbifolia
This silvery plant will slowly adjust the angle of its leaves in response to humidity and light. Beards and Daisies says: “Movements are subtle but continuous, making this a quietly active species.”
Calathea leopardina
This plant has spotted, lance-shaped leaves that continuously reposition themselves throughout the day. Beards and Daisies advise that its energetic, responsive nature makes it a great counterbalance for still corners.
Calathea roseopicta
This is a great choice for those looking to add more visual interest to their home. Beards and Daisies says: “Characterised by bold central markings and purple undersides, the leaves fold slightly at night. This reveals the contrasting tones and adds visual depth.”
Calathea makoyana (Peacock Plant)
This shiny green plant is native to Eastern Brazil but can be kept in UK homes in warm, humid conditions. According to Beards and Daisies: “Named for its feather-like patterns, the Peacock Plant closes its leaves vertically in low light, giving it a distinct silhouette at night.”
Calathea sanderiana
This dark pin-striped plant fits the Gothic aesthetic to a T. Beards and Daisies suggests that it makes “a refined option” for muted interiors.
Calathea rufibarba
Beards and Daisies says: “Its soft, velvety texture is paired with gentle movement. Leaves shift position in response to day–night cycles, though motion is slow and often unnoticed unless observed closely.”
Calathea lancifolia (Rattlesnake Plant)
These plants are already a favourite for those looking to add a touch of elegance to their interiors thanks to their long, patterned leaves – but it turns out, they move too. According to Beards and Daisies their leaves “subtly lift at night”.
