In the world of luxury interiors, drama is a bit of a design language – and nothing speaks that language like a moody selection of gothic-inspired botanicals! At Leaflike, we curate installations that transform hotel spaces into immersive experiences—and in this blog we shine a Halloween lantern on seven spellbinding plants that could bring a touch of the dark arts to your indoor oasis.
These plants don’t just look enchanting – they thrive in the kinds of controlled, curated environments that luxury hotels offer. Here’s how to care for each one, and where they could fit in your next biophilic installation.
1. RUBBER TREE (Ficus elastica ‘Burgundy’)
The classic rubber plant gets a brooding makeover in this cultivar. With its deep wine-colored foliage and glossy finish, Ficus elastica ‘Burgundy’ evokes velvet drapes in a Victorian drawing room. It thrives in bright, indirect light and adds height and structure to any gothic-themed display. Though it will tolerate lower light, that rich deep colour is maintained with sunlight, so it’s a great selection for bright atriums and lobbies, and will also handle the humidity there.
Keep the leaves dust-free for a glossy sheen.
2. BEGONIA ‘DARK EYES’
There are so many wonderful begonias to choose from, but this British-bred cultivar is quite the showstopper. Begonia ‘Dark Eyes’ has jagged lobed leaves with metallic undertones and a blood-red central vein. It’s compact yet visually arresting—perfect for tabletop arrangements or shadowy corners that need a touch of mystery.
It’s one to keep out of direct sunlight; like many variegated cultivars, it can scorch easily. And, it’s a fan of high humidity – so it could be a great choice for spa lounges or humid conservatories.
3. PURPLE SHAMROCK (Oxalis triangularis)
Native to South America, and with deep violet, triangular leaves that follow the light and fold like bat wings at night, Oxalis triangularis brings a touch of enchantment and movement to any interior. Its delicate white or pale pink flowers offer a soft contrast to the dramatic foliage, making it a captivating accent in moody, romantic spaces.
Despite its delicate structure it’s a robust plant and flourishes in most conditions, but be warned, it doesn’t like prolonged periods of heat and will show its discontent with a ‘tired’ appearance.
4. AFRICAN MASK PLANT (Alocasia amazonica ‘Polly’)
Also known as the African Mask Plant, Alocasia ‘Polly’ is beautifully sculptural. Its arrow-shaped leaves with stark white veins resemble tribal markings, and its upright posture adds a regal, almost warrior-like presence to any space. It’s a hybrid variety, so it doesn’t have a native habitat, but is bred from species native to tropical rainforest.
This is a real hothouse plant, so it won’t be suitable for every setting, but humid spa and swimming pool areas could provide the perfect home.
5. BLACK BAT FLOWER (Tacca chantrieri)
Known as the Bat Flower, Tacca chantrieri is the gothic queen of the plant world. With its wing-like black bracts and long whisker-like filaments, it looks like something out of Tim Burton’s imagination.
This rare tropical thrives in high humidity and low light, so it’s not the most adaptable of plants – but it could be ideal for moody spa lounges or shaded atriums.
6. BLACK ROSE (Aeonium arboreum ‘Zwartkop’)
This succulent boasts stunning rosettes of near-black foliage that resemble dark roses. Aeonium arboreum ‘Zwartkop’ is drought-tolerant and sculptural, making it perfect for minimalist gothic arrangements or dramatic centrepieces in sunlit hotel lobbies.
7. BEGONIA REX ‘ETNA’
Named after the fiery volcano, Begonia rex ‘Etna’ is a tempest of color and texture. Its leaves swirl with black, crimson, and silver, creating a visual effect that’s both volcanic and vampiric. Use it to anchor a gothic palette or contrast against pale marble surfaces for maximum impact.
Whether you’re designing a sultry cocktail lounge or a decadent suite, these dark botanicals offer a rich palette of texture, tone, and mystique. At Leaflike we specialize in installations that tell stories—and these plants are ready to cast their spell.
Let’s conjure something unforgettable. Get in touch!