A ‘Raven’ ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) and living stones (Lithops) are creatively incorporated into Fall/Halloween decorations.
Julia Nichols, ©2025 HGIC, Clemson Extension
How to Decorate with Spooky Houseplants This Fall
Now that we are past the height of the growing season and shorter days are upon us, a great way to utilize your green thumb is by caring for houseplants indoors.
Add houseplants to your Fall or Halloween decorations for an extra pop of life, while also expanding your houseplant collection. All the houseplants listed below are common finds at your local garden centers or big-box stores.
‘Raven’ ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The Raven ZZ has lime green new growth that matures to a glossy deep purple-black. ZZ plants originate from East Africa. They thrive in bright, indirect light and are relatively low-maintenance.
They can tolerate medium indirect lighting but will grow more slowly. They need to be watered sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between each watering, typically every 10 to 14 days. The black foliage looks beautiful amongst Fall or Halloween decorations.
The glossy, deep purple-black foliage of a potted ‘Raven’ ZZ plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia).
Julia Nichols, ©2025, Clemson Extension
Rattlesnake Plant (Goeppertia insignis)
This plant’s gorgeous foliage is purple underneath with a patterned top of dark and lime green.
Rattlesnake plants will dance for you! They extend and fold their foliage during the mornings and evenings to capture as much sunlight as possible. This movement is a characteristic shared with other members of the Marantaceae family, which are often referred to as “prayer plants.”
Rattlesnake plants prefer:
- Consistently moist soil
- Bright, indirect light
- Higher humidity (misting or a nearby humidifier is recommended)
The stunning patterned foliage of a potted rattlesnake plant (Goeppertia insignis).
Julia Nichols, ©2025 HGIC, Clemson Extension
Venus Flytrap (Dionaea muscipula)
What is spookier than a carnivorous plant?!
Venus flytraps are native to parts of coastal South and North Carolina and obtain their nutrients by digesting insects. These plants prefer 4 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Grow lights can even work indoors in areas with lower light conditions.
Watering and Fertilizing Tips for Venus Flytraps
- Use only distilled water or clean rainwater.
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Place the plant in a tray with 1/2 to 1 inch of water during the growing season helps keep it properly watered and mimics its natural growing conditions.
- Never use fertilizer or potting soil with added nutrients, as this can burn the plant’s foliage.
- Feed one small live insect about once a month. Small flies or crickets are best.
Note: Overfeeding can cause the plant to die.
Venus Flytrap plants are endangered and should never be collected from the wild. Always purchase from a reputable nursery.
Living Stones (Lithops)
These creepy-looking plants are meant to mimic stones or rocks on the ground. This aesthetic protects them from grazing animals in their native South Africa.
Living stones thrive in at least 4 to 5 hours of direct sunlight. Plant them in a ‘cactus mix’ soil to ensure proper drainage, as these plants do not tolerate overly wet roots.
Care Tips for Living Stones
- Water only when the soil has completely dried out.
- Bottom watering is preferred.
Two potted Living Stones (Lithops) that have just finished blooming in a Fall/Halloween display.
Julia Nichols, ©2025, Clemson Extension
Additional Resources
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox: Raven ZZ
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox: Rattlesnake Plant
Clemson University: The Mysteries and Wonders of the Venus Flytrap
