21 Moody Houseplants for an Indoor Goth Garden

Houseplant trends are always evolving, but one that seems like it’s here to stay is goth gardens. Who doesn’t want drama and intrigue in their plant collection, especially among your houseplants? Great for minimalist spaces or overflowing indoor jungles, many seamlessly fit into a spooky goth garden aesthetic.

The 21 plants on this list have dark green, burgundy, purple, or almost black foliage for dramatic coloring. Others are added for their unique shape or (in the case of carnivorous plants) growth habit. With so much variety, you’ll find a few favorites to add to your indoor plant collection.

Zamioculcas zamiifolia ‘Raven’

The Raven ZZ plant brings a moody energy in both shape and color. This cultivar of the ever-popular Zamioculcas zamiifolia starts out a bright and captivating green, slowly developing a black hue in the leaves as they mature. The arching stems and pointed leaves also have a somewhat Jurassic look that fits perfectly into the goth garden theme.

Raven is also one of the easiest houseplants on this list to care for, even for beginners. As they store water in their stems and leaves, they can withstand a missed watering or two and don’t need fertilizing often. Extra sunlight will enhance the dark color of the leaves, but they can also tolerate moderate light well.

Alocasia ‘Black Velvet’

The dark, large leaves of Alocasia reginula instantly attract attention and look dramatic wherever they are placed. The common name black velvet is incredibly apt, with a soft and shimmery texture that’s tough to find on any other houseplants. This gives them a somewhat vintage feel that pairs well with other goth garden elements.

Alocasias have a reputation for being tricky to grow, and this species is no different. They need consistent moisture and higher humidity than other houseplants to match their tropical native environment. But their unique look is worth the extra effort to keep them happy.

Alocasia x amazonica

Sticking with alocasias, another goth garden staple to consider is Alocasia x amazonica. You may also see it named Alocasia ‘Polly’ or the Amazonian Elephant’s Ear.

The leaves are deep green rather than black, like the previous entry on the list, but they have contrasting cream veins that make the color stand out even more. The ruffled shape adds to this dramatic look, along with the dark purple color on the undersides of the leaves. These plants can look sparse with few leaves, so place them in a warm and humid environment with plenty of light to boost growth.

Philodendron ‘Black Cardinal’

If you need a large statement plant in your indoor goth garden, Philodendron ‘Black Cardinal’ is the answer. This plant is a cultivar of Philodendron erubescens, like the famous pink princess philodendron. New leaves emerge a bright burgundy and slowly transform to a deep, almost-black color. The impressive size of the leaves fills empty gaps in your indoor garden with dramatic color.

This cultivar is just as easy to care for as other philodendron types. It’s happiest in bright, indirect light but will grow well in lower-light areas. Beyond that, you won’t struggle to keep these plants healthy, even as a beginner.  

Aeonium ‘Zwartkop’

In the succulent world, no plant is more dramatic and suitable for a goth garden than ‘Zwartkop.’ This species is also known as ‘Black Rose,’ an apt name for this tree-like plant. The rosette is packed with deep purple-black petals highlighted by a bright green center where new leaves emerge.

Since this plant is a succulent, it’s not quite as well-suited to growing indoors as other tropical plants. It needs a spot with direct sun to avoid stretching, helping the plant maintain its shape. It’s also essential to avoid overwatering, allowing the soil to dry out completely before you water again to prevent root rot.

Anthurium ‘Ace of Spades’

Anthuriums are typically grown for their vivid tropical flowers in many eye-catching colors. But anthurium leaves can also have tons of ornamental value, especially when growing ‘Ace of Spades.’ Not only are the leaves of this cultivar massive, but they also have a dark green, almost black hue that’s ideal for a goth garden.

This unique look does come with a high price tag. ‘Ace of Spades’ is a rare anthurium that’s quite tough to find and is considered quite an investment. But if you’re willing to splurge on a dramatic houseplant to add to your rare plant collection, this one certainly won’t disappoint.

Colocasia ‘Black Magic’

Colocasias are tropical plants often grown outdoors in warmer climates for their leafy ornamental value. But if you live in a cooler climate and can’t grow these plants outdoors year-round, they are great for growing as houseplants, too. ‘Black Magic’ is a stunning purple cultivar with leaves so dark, you’re bound to get lost in them.

This plant will grow quite large when given enough sun. The leaves can reach an impressive two feet in size, but they will grow slower and stay a little smaller indoors. Give them frequent water (without waterlogging) to keep the leaves strong and upright.

Peperomia caperata ‘Burgundy Ripple’

Peperomias were the first plants that made me a true houseplant collector. Each species looks so interesting and unique that you can fill an entire indoor garden with this one genus, and you’ll always have something fun to look at.

‘Burgundy Ripple’ ticks all the boxes of a goth garden plant in both color and texture. The adorable ruffled leaves have a deep reddish-purple color that intensifies in brighter light. The tall flower spikes also sport a burgundy color that only adds to the drama. These compact plants are great for home offices or pairing with other peperomia species on a bookshelf.

Scindapsus treubii ‘Dark’

If you’re a fan of the sterling silver Scindapsus, scientifically Scindapsus treubii ‘Moonlight,’ you must try its darker and moodier cousin, Scindapsus treubii ‘Dark.’ This cultivar retains the same shape, but rather than the silvery sheen, it sports deep green leaves. This, along with its pointed shape and trailing habit, makes it a must-have in goth indoor gardens.

This species also falls under the ‘rare’ category, although it is easier to find than other cultivars like ‘Ace of Spades.’ The price has reduced in recent years with increased accessibility, so you shouldn’t have trouble finding one. If there aren’t any in your local nurseries, purchase online from reputable sellers instead.

Begonia ‘Black Fancy’

The leafy Begonia genus is not short of goth garden plants, starting with the stunning ‘Black Fancy.’ While some dark plants have a definite greenish hue, there is no doubt that these leaves are black. They also have a velvety texture and pointed shape, adding to the goth garden aesthetic.

Begonias love the shade and generally grow better in warm environments, so they are often kept as houseplants. While you can plant them outdoors in shady areas, they will fit seamlessly into your existing houseplant collection. And with the right amount of sunlight, you’ll also enjoy their contrasting pink flowers throughout the year. 

Begonia Jurassic ‘Silver Swirl’

This plant is a Begonia rex cultivar, one of the most popular species for growing indoors. The Jurassic Series is full of uniquely patterned and colored foliage, but none is more fitting for a goth garden than ‘Silver Swirl.’

The leaves are deep purple-black, with a contrasting silver spiral in the center. The ruffled texture adds to this ‘Jurassic’ look, appearing almost like what I imagine dinosaur scales might have looked like. If you want to highlight this texture, it will stand out even more when combined with shiny-leaved plants like Scindapsus treubii.

Begonia ‘Black Magic’

The last begonia on this list is not as dark as the previous two but has a moody burgundy color that fits an indoor goth garden. The serrated leaves of this cultivar emerge green with stark red stems, slowly darkening to a deep burgundy. If given the right conditions, it will also push out adorable pink flowers in spring.

This interesting begonia is not tough to keep happy. They will grow best in bright indirect light throughout the day, as lack of sun can cause the stems to become leggy. That, plus regular watering to keep the soil damp but not waterlogged, will ensure the plant keeps developing new dramatic foliage.

Ficus elastica ‘Burgundy’

Sticking with burgundy favorites, next on the list is the rubber tree cultivar ‘Burgundy.’ If you need a goth garden plant to fill floor-to-ceiling space in your home, this is the one to opt for. The leaves are glossy and dark green, with a tinge of burgundy in the veins and on the undersides that’s most visible on taller foliage.

The benefit of growing Ficus elastica over other ficus varieties is its adaptability. While the popular fiddle leaf will drop leaves whenever it is moved, the rubber tree can handle changes in conditions much better. They grow slowly, especially indoors, so start with a large plant if you want to fill an empty corner.  

Gynura aurantiaca

This interesting species is commonly known as purple passion or purple velvet, apt descriptions of the purple glowing leaves. The color comes from fine purple hairs on the green foliage that catch the light, creating a purple haze around the entire plant. They may not be as dark as some other plants on this list, but they are certainly moody.

Purple passion plant is not too fussy, but keeping up with watering is important. I lost my plant due to forgetful watering. The leaves are quite thin and wilt quickly when the soil dries out. Bright indirect light or gentle, direct sun from an east-facing window will help them maintain their impressive coloring.

Calathea ‘Dottie’

There are several calatheas with a moody look, but my favorite has to be ‘Dottie’. It sports the classic large and rounded leaves calatheas are loved for, with a dark green backdrop providing ideal contrast for the electric pink in the center and toward the edges. The undersides of the leaves are bright purple, adding to the goth garden feel.

Unfortunately, calatheas are known for being high maintenance. They need a full day of bright indirect light to maintain shape and color, along with a consistent watering schedule. Warm temperatures and high humidity are also a must, with as little change in the environment as possible.

Pitcher Plant

There is no better houseplant for a dramatic goth garden than a carnivorous plant. They add a moody feel not just in color but in shape and growth habits, too. Pitcher plants are a great addition to any goth garden, with unique traps and stunning patterns to add a pop of color. Many have a deep burgundy or purple hue that will also blend well with other plants on this list.

Carnivorous plant care is a little different from regular tropical houseplant care. They are also happy in bright, indirect light but need plenty of water to match conditions in their native habitat. If you want to give them the best possible care, research your specific variety to ensure it remains part of your collection long-term.

Venus Fly Trap

You can’t discuss carnivorous plants without mentioning the iconic Venus fly trap. The spiky traps and unique shape make it a great fit for goth gardens, and the burgundy centers that contrast with the bright green stems add to the allure.

This alien-like plant comes from bogs and needs consistently moist soil to succeed and catch unwanted bugs around your home. Soil choice is important, as additional fertilizers from standard potting mixes can damage the roots. Place them in a warm spot throughout the year to watch them grow and thrive.

Echeveria ‘Black Prince’

Back to succulents, the spiky and geometric Echeveria ‘Black Prince’ has the perfect shape and color for an indoor goth garden. The leaves are arranged in a compact rosette, with its young, light green leaves and base slowly fading with maturity to a deep purplish black.

If you want them to maintain this compact shape, place them in a spot with direct sun all day. A south-facing window is ideal, which will also improve color. Wait for the soil to dry out completely before watering again to stop the roots and stem from rotting.

Basil ‘Purple Petra’

Although not usually considered a ‘houseplant,’ those with thriving indoor herb gardens may want to consider the basil cultivar ‘Purple Petra’ for some goth garden inspiration. The dark leaves have all the taste benefits of regular basil, with an added pop of color that looks great in your home and on a plate.

Basil is not the easiest herb to grow indoors if you want to harvest regularly. They can quickly become leggy, which can be combatted with plenty of direct sun. While they like moisture, avoiding overwatering is best, as it can lead to wilting and soggy stems.

Oxalis triangularis

Commonly known as the false shamrock or purple shamrock, Oxalis triangularis has a deep purple hue perfect for a goth garden. The ‘shamrock’ in the name comes from the shape of the leaves, dotted with adorable white blooms when the plant is in flower. The leaves also move throughout the day, adding to their drama.

For the strongest growth, avoid moderate to low-light areas of your home. They grow far better with too much sunlight than with too little. Regular water is also needed to stop the delicate leaves from wilting too quickly.

Strobilanthes dyeriana

Last on the list is another stunning violet foliage plant, commonly known as the Persian shield. These plants are grown both indoors and out for their captivating patterned leaves, with touches of purple and green to highlight the vibrancy of both hues.

For the best growth and coloring, these houseplants can handle a little more direct sun. Choose a spot in front of an east-facing window where they can receive direct morning sun but protection from harsh direct light in the midday and afternoon.

Final Thoughts

Bring drama and a goth aesthetic to your houseplant collection with any of these moody beauties. It’s the perfect way to jump in on this trend.