November 18, 2025, 2:23 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
Houseplants bring life to living spaces and improve indoor air quality. However, many are sensitive to frequent changes in location. Light conditions, temperature, and humidity change when moved—causing stress for some plants. Some may lose leaves, stop growing, or cease blooming. Identifying these plants can help keep them healthy by keeping their location stable. myHOMEBOOK plant expert Franka Kruse-Gering highlights five of them.
1. Weeping Fig (Ficus benjamina)
The Ficus benjamina is one of the most well-known houseplants. It loves bright, warm rooms but cannot tolerate drafts or sudden changes in location. If moved or even rotated, it can shed many leaves within days.
The Ficus is best placed in a bright spot with indirect sunlight. It prefers consistent temperatures between 64 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Watering should be moderate—the soil should dry slightly before watering again. In winter, it needs less water.
2. Orchid
Orchids, especially the widespread Phalaenopsis, are true light lovers but react sensitively to changes. A new location with different light or temperature can cause them to stop producing new blooms or drop buds.
Orchids thrive best at a bright, but not sunny, window facing east or west. They require high humidity and should be watered regularly but not too heavily—ideally by briefly soaking in room-temperature water.
3. Bird of Paradise
The Bird of Paradise, also known as Strelitzia, is an impressive plant with large leaves and spectacular flowers. It loves sun, warmth, and consistent conditions. Frequent relocation can cause growth stagnation or dried leaves, as it constantly has to adjust to new light conditions.
A bright, sunny location without drafts is ideal. During the growing season from spring to fall, it can be watered regularly, but should be watered more sparingly in winter. Waterlogging should be avoided at all costs.
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4. Calathea
The Calathea originates from tropical rainforests and is extremely sensitive to temperature fluctuations and changes in light. When moved, its leaves often curl or develop brown edges.
It prefers a semi-shaded spot without direct sunlight and consistently high humidity. The soil should always be slightly moist but not wet. Dry heating air is detrimental, so a humidifier or a bowl of water nearby is helpful.
5. Kentia Palm
The Kentia Palm is among the most popular and robust houseplants, but it also dislikes sudden changes. Frequent moving can result in brown leaf tips or dead fronds. It is particularly sensitive to cold drafts.
It prefers bright to semi-shaded locations, with temperatures between 60 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. The soil should remain evenly slightly moist, avoiding waterlogging and prolonged dryness. Regularly wiping the leaves removes dust and improves air intake.