Okay, let’s talk flowering plants. Not the ones you admire in someone’s shamba and promise to buy “next month,” but the ones you actually take home, plant… and then forget to water for a week. 😅
I used to be that person who thought a few sukuma wiki and a pothos were enough. Then I started craving colour — the kind that makes your compound say “Yes, I’m loved here.” Fast forward to now, and my garden’s giving me main character energy.
If you’re trying to glow up your space with real, blooming joy, here are my true stories and reviews of flowering plants that have lived, struggled, or thrived under my (sometimes forgetful) care in Kenya.
🌺 1. Hibiscus – The One That Made My Fence Look Expensive
The first time I saw hibiscus was at a fancy Airbnb in Naivasha and I thought, “Eii, this one is for rich gardens.” But guess what? I got one from a roadside mama for KSh 150. Planted it. Gave it sun. BOOM — my compound started giving “destination wedding vibes.”
Why I love it:
- It blooms like it has rent to pay
- Zero drama if you give it sun and water
- Feels tropical, even if you’re just in Syokimau
🔗 You can get flowering plants like this here
🌸 2. Bougainvillea – The Ghetto Fabulous Queen
We all have that one neighbour whose wall is just full of bougainvillea — and you lowkey stare every time you pass. That’s how I got mine. I saw one in full bloom, asked for a cutting, planted it… and now people ask me for cuttings!
My review:
- It literally thrives on neglect
- Drought doesn’t stress it
- It grows fast and blooms like it’s showing off
Just trim it or it will take over your gate, your wall, your fence, your life 😅
🌹 3. Roses – The Relationship That Takes Work
Let’s talk roses. I thought they’d be easy because “Kenya exports them, right?” Wrong. They’re beautiful — yes. But these plants are like that fine partner who needs flowers, texts, dates, and reassurance every other day.
The truth:
- They smell divine and look stunning
- But they’re needy!
- You need sun, fertilizer, water, and pruning
Still, when mine bloom? I become a flower photographer. Captions ready. Lighting perfect. “She’s beauty, she’s grace…”
🔗 Found a cute potted one here
🌼 4. Marigold – The Plug for Colour and Pest Control
This is the real MVP. I planted marigolds between my tomatoes and boom — the aphids disappeared. Plus, the bright yellow-orange flowers are the ultimate good mood boosters.
My experience:
- Easy to grow (even for beginners)
- Adds colour fast
- Keeps pests away, naturally
Bonus: They remind me of rural weddings. You know the ones where they decorate the tent with marigold chains? Yeah, that nostalgia. 🥲
🌺 5. Impatiens – The Softie That Thrives in Shade
Impatiens were my accidental win. I bought one because the colours were cute, and I had no clue it actually prefers shade. I put it on my kitchen window where sunlight is scarce and it said, “Thank you, bestie.”
Why it’s a fave now:
- Great for balconies or indoors
- Doesn’t need full sun
- Blooms constantly if you water it
💡 Plant Lover-to-Plant Lover Tips:
- Don’t overthink it. Most plants just want sun, water, and occasional gossip.
- Buy what fits your lifestyle. If you travel a lot, skip the needy ones.
- Start with two flowering plants. Trust me — you’ll be hooked.
- Always ask for cuttings. Kenyans are generous with plants (and tea 🍵).
Final Word: Start Your Flower Girl Era 🌸
I used to scroll Instagram wishing for a home that felt calm, happy, and green. Turns out all I needed was one flowering plant to start. Now, my garden’s the reason I open my curtains early and feel like a plant mom with her life together.
And you? You’re just one hibiscus away from that feeling too.
