My home décor philosophy – when in doubt, add a houseplant, there’s no such thing as too many! They add color, character, and life to a space. Plus, they can purify the air, lift your mood, and bring the outdoors in. Plus the pottery and baskets you place them in add so much personality to a space – they’re so fun to shop for. But, let’s be honest – they can be a lot of work, and some houseplants are super difficult to keep alive. The good news is that there are plants that are pretty much foolproof, some even thrive on neglect. If that’s what you are looking for, here are seven beginner-friendly, low-maintenance house plants:
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
The snake plant is nearly indestructible. Also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, it tolerates low light and needs minimal watering. It’s also an interesting plant to look at with its tall and adds a sculptural element to any room. The snake plant also removes harmful toxins like formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene from the air you breathe. It also has the rare ability to produce oxygen at night, so it’s a great houseplant to place in your bedroom to enhance sleep quality.
*Care Tip: Place your snake plant in a low-light corner and let the soil dry completely between waterings.
2. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos is a trailing vine with heart-shaped leaves that does well in bright, indirect light but can adapt to low light. They grow quickly and are great to use in hanging baskets or wall sconces and it’s easy to propagate in water, so you can grow new plants from cuttings!
*Care Tip: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
3. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ plant is glossy, hearty, and happy to be ignored. It has thick, waxy leaves that help retain moisture, making it an ideal house plant for people who tend to forget to water.
*Care Tip: Water once every two weeks.
4. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
This retro favorite is back in style thanks to its fun, arching leaves and the “baby spiders” (offshoots) it produces. It’s great in hanging baskets and can purify indoor air. If you have pets, this is a great choice since, according to the ASPCA, its leaves are not toxic when ingested by dogs or cats.
*Care Tip: Trim brown tips as needed.
5. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
If you want a flowering plant that’s easy to care for, the peace lily is for you! Its lush green leaves and white blooms bring a touch of elegance to any space.
*Care Tip: The peace lily droops slightly when it needs water.
6. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera can help with a sunburn, has tons of health benefits when turned into a juice, and is also incredibly easy to grow. It’s a succulent, so it prefers dry conditions and doesn’t require a lot of attention. Plus, they’re really pretty and go great with boho decor.
*Care Tip: Place in bright, indirect sunlight.
7. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
With its speckled and variegated leaves, the Chinese evergreen is one of the most adaptable houseplants. It’s another plant that can tolerate poor lighting and inconsistent watering.
Care Tips: Keep it in indirect light and allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. It’s very forgiving, even if you miss a watering or two.
Become a House Plant Girl
Trust me, after you get your first house plant, you’ll want more. They’re so addicting!! Just make sure to keep some of them out of reach of pets and kids – or just choose non-toxic varieties since there are tons. And, it’s okay if you kill a plant, we all have! House plants are supposed to bring joy; don’t let them stress you out.
