The Best Plants to Pair with Rattan

Plants and rattan are a natural pairing — both bring warmth, texture and a grounded feeling into a home.

In Australian interiors inspired by Japandi, coastal and warm minimalist design, the combination of greenery and woven natural fibres creates a calm, refreshing and beautifully balanced atmosphere.

Here’s a guide to the best indoor plants to pair with rattan furniture, lighting and décor — helping you create a soft, nature-connected home.

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1. Eucalyptus – an Australian favourite

Eucalyptus brings a soft, muted green tone that perfectly complements the warm honey shades of rattan.

Its elegant, narrow leaves add a calming and gently sculptural feel to any room.

Ideal for:

• Living rooms
• Entryways
• Bedrooms

Eucalyptus sprigs in a ceramic vase also pair beautifully with rattan lighting.

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2. Monstera – bold yet harmonious

Monstera’s large, sculptural leaves add contrast while still feeling relaxed and tropical — perfect for coastal or open-plan Australian homes.

Why it pairs well with rattan:

• Adds visual depth
• Softens modern lines
• Enhances natural textures
• Thrives in bright light

A Monstera next to a rattan chair or sideboard creates an effortlessly stylish nook.

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3. Zanzibar Gem – low-maintenance and elegant

The Zanzibar Gem brings a glossy, deep green tone that contrasts beautifully with the warm matte tones of rattan.

Benefits:

• Very hardy
• Ideal for darker rooms
• Provides height and structure
• Works in minimalist spaces

Its upright growth pattern looks sophisticated beside rattan consoles or bookshelves.

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4. Olive tree – soft Mediterranean calm

Indoor olive trees are growing in popularity across Australia, thanks to their soft grey-green leaves and sculptural form.

Their muted tones pair beautifully with light rattan and linen textures.

Perfect for:

• Japandi
• Warm minimalism
• Natural Mediterranean-inspired spaces

Place an olive tree near a rattan armchair or bed for a serene and timeless look.

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5. Trailing plants – add softness and movement

Plants that cascade gently add a sense of movement and life to still spaces. They pair beautifully with rattan shelves, wall décor and hanging baskets.

Best trailing plants:

• Devil’s Ivy
• String of Pearls
• Heartleaf Philodendron
• Chain of Hearts

Their flowing silhouettes soften the structured weave of rattan.

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6. Snake plant – modern and architectural

Snake plants offer a clean, structured shape that works well with rattan furniture’s softer curves.

Their upright form creates balance and contrast in minimalist rooms.

Advantages:

• Very drought-tolerant
• Architectural silhouette
• Works in bedrooms and living spaces
• Complements natural materials

Pair it with a rattan planter for a modern organic feel.

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Conclusion

Rattan and plants share a natural harmony that enhances any Australian home.

Whether you prefer soft eucalyptus, bold Monstera leaves or cascading vines, the right greenery can elevate rattan furniture and lighting — creating calm, grounded and beautifully balanced spaces.

Combining indoor plants with rattan is one of the simplest ways to bring nature, warmth and slow-living comfort into everyday life.