Plants are more than just decorations; they’re living companions that bring a touch of nature indoors. They not only add a pop of color and vibrancy to your space, but they also improve air quality by filtering out toxins and increasing humidity. Studies have even shown that caring for plants can reduce stress and boost feelings of well-being.
However, venturing into the world of indoor plants can be intimidating, especially for beginners. With so many varieties available, each with unique light, water, and humidity needs, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But fear not! Here, we’ll unveil the top 17 indoor plants for beginners, each known for their resilience and forgiving nature.
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria): The Ultimate Low-Maintenance Champion
The Snake Plant, also known as Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, is the undisputed champion of low-maintenance indoor plants. These architectural wonders boast upright, sword-like leaves in vibrant shades of green with yellow or white variegation depending on the variety.
Light: Snake Plants thrive in low-light conditions, making them perfect for north-facing windows or dimly lit corners. They can even tolerate short periods of direct sunlight, but avoid harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves.
Water: This is where the Snake Plant truly shines. It’s nearly impossible to overwater this champion. In fact, it prefers to dry out completely between waterings. A good rule of thumb is to water only when the soil feels bone dry to the touch. Overwatering is the leading cause of problems for Snake Plants, so err on the side of underwatering.
Care Tips: Snake Plants prefer well-draining potting mix. A standard cactus mix or a mixture of potting soil with added perlite will suffice. They don’t require frequent repotting and grow happily in the same pot for several years. When repotting becomes necessary due to rootboundness, choose a pot only slightly larger than the previous one.
2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia): The Practically Unkillable Plant
The ZZ Plant, also nicknamed the Eternity Plant, lives up to its names. This architectural wonder boasts glossy, dark green, almost black, leaves that emerge from sturdy stems. It’s a slow grower but can reach impressive heights over time, making it a great choice for adding a touch of elegance to your space.
Light: The ZZ Plant is incredibly adaptable when it comes to light. It can thrive in low light conditions or bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Water: Similar to the Snake Plant, the ZZ Plant is a champion of neglect. It requires very infrequent watering. In fact, underwatering is less harmful than overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, and never let the plant sit in waterlogged soil.
Care Tips: ZZ Plants prefer well-draining potting mix. A standard cactus mix or a mixture of potting soil with added perlite will work well. Due to its slow growth, repotting is rarely necessary. When the plant becomes rootbound, choose a pot only slightly larger than the previous one. ZZ Plants don’t require high humidity and tolerate average household temperatures.
3. Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum): The Easygoing Climber
The Golden Pothos is a stunning vine with cascading foliage that comes in a variety of shades, including solid green, variegated green and gold, and even marble patterns. It’s a fast grower and readily adapts to various growing conditions, making it a popular choice for beginners.
Light: Golden Pothos thrives in a wide range of light conditions, from bright indirect light to low light. However, avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Water: Water your Golden Pothos when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Allow the excess water to drain freely and avoid leaving the plant sitting in waterlogged soil. Overwatering is the most common problem with Pothos.
Care Tips: Golden Pothos prefers a well-draining potting mix. A standard potting mix with added perlite will work well. Pothos can be grown in hanging baskets, allowed to climb a moss pole, or trained to trail across shelves or cabinets. It’s also very easy to propagate by taking stem cuttings and placing them in water.
4. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum): The Spidery Wonder
The Spider Plant is a cheerful and easy-to-care-for plant known for its arching green leaves that produce cascading plantlets, or “spiderettes,” at the tips.
These spiderettes can be easily propagated to create new plants, making the Spider Plant a great choice for those who love to share their plant parenthood journey.
Light: Spider Plants prefer bright indirect light but can tolerate some low light conditions. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Water: Water your Spider Plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Allow excess water to drain freely from the pot and avoid leaving the plant sitting in waterlogged soil.
Care Tips: Spider Plants prefer a well-draining potting mix. A standard potting mix with added perlite will work well. They don’t require frequent repotting and can thrive in the same pot for several years. When repotting becomes necessary due to rootboundness, choose a pot only slightly larger than the previous one. Spider Plants benefit from occasional misting, especially in dry climates, but it’s not essential. They are known for their air-purifying properties and are a great addition to bedrooms or bathrooms.
5. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior): The Indestructible Warrior
The Cast Iron Plant lives up to its name with its incredible tolerance for neglect. These leafy wonders boast large, dark green, glossy leaves that emerge from sturdy, upright stems. They may not be the fastest growers, but their resilience makes them a perfect choice for busy plant parents.
Light: Cast Iron Plants thrive in low-light conditions and can tolerate even the shadiest corners of your home. They don’t appreciate direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Water: Water your Cast Iron Plant moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Overwatering is the leading cause of problems for this plant. It’s better to underwater slightly than to overwater.
Care Tips: Cast Iron Plants prefer a well-draining potting mix. A standard potting mix with added perlite will work well. They are slow growers and don’t require frequent repotting. When repotting becomes necessary due to rootboundness, choose a pot only slightly larger than the previous one. Cast Iron Plants tolerate average household humidity and a wide range of temperatures. They are known for their air-purifying properties.
6. Jade Plant (Crassula Ovata): The Adorable Succulent
The Jade Plant is a charming succulent with plump, glossy green leaves that resemble miniature jade stones. It’s a slow grower but can develop a beautiful bonsai-like appearance over time. Jades are known for bringing good luck and prosperity, making them a popular choice for home offices.
Light: Jade Plants need bright indirect light to thrive. They can tolerate some direct sunlight in the morning hours, but avoid harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves.
Water: Water your Jade Plant thoroughly when the soil dries out completely. Allow excess water to drain freely from the pot and avoid leaving the plant sitting in waterlogged soil. Overwatering is the leading cause of problems with Jades.
Care Tips: Jade Plants prefer a well-draining cactus mix or a mixture of potting soil with added perlite and sand. They don’t require frequent repotting and can thrive in the same pot for several years. When repotting becomes necessary due to rootboundness, choose a pot only slightly larger than the previous one. Jades don’t require high humidity and tolerate average household temperatures. With proper care, Jade Plants can even be encouraged to bloom with clusters of small, star-shaped white flowers.
7. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii): The Elegant Air Purifier
The Peace Lily is a beautiful flowering plant known for its elegant white blooms that resemble calla lilies. The deep green, glossy foliage adds to its overall charm. Peace Lilies are not only easy to care for but are also known for their air-purifying properties, making them a great choice for bedrooms or living rooms.
Light: Peace Lilies prefer medium indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves. A telltale sign of insufficient light is a lack of blooms.
Water: Water your Peace Lily when the soil feels dry to the touch. The plant will also indicate its thirst by drooping its leaves. Allow excess water to drain freely from the pot and avoid leaving the plant sitting in waterlogged soil.
Care Tips: Peace Lilies prefer a well-draining potting mix. A standard potting mix with added perlite will work well. They don’t require frequent repotting and can thrive in the same pot for several years. When repotting becomes necessary due to rootboundness, choose a pot only slightly larger than the previous one. Peace Lilies benefit from occasional misting, especially in dry climates. They can tolerate average household humidity levels but will thrive with a little extra moisture in the air.
8. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema): The Low-Light Champion
The Chinese Evergreen, with its stunning variegated foliage in shades of green, cream, and silver, thrives in low-light conditions. It’s a slow grower but makes up for it with its lush, vibrant leaves.
Light: Chinese Evergreens prefer low to medium indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Water: Water your Chinese Evergreen when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Allow excess water to drain freely from the pot and avoid overwatering.
Care Tips: These low-maintenance wonders prefer a well-draining potting mix. A standard potting mix with added perlite will work well. They don’t require frequent repotting and can thrive in the same pot for several years. Chinese Evergreens tolerate average household humidity but appreciate occasional misting, especially in dry climates. They are known for their air-purifying properties, making them a great addition to bedrooms or bathrooms.
9. String of Pearls (Senecio Rowleyanus): The Cascading Curiosity
The String of Pearls is a unique succulent with cascading green tendrils adorned with pea-sized, pearl-like beads. It adds a whimsical touch to hanging baskets or shelves.
Light: String of Pearls prefers bright indirect light. Some direct morning sunlight is okay, but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Water: Water your String of Pearls sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is the leading cause of problems with this succulent.
Care Tips: String of Pearls thrives in a well-draining cactus mix or a mixture of potting soil with added perlite and sand. They don’t require frequent repotting and can thrive in the same pot for several years. Since they are succulents, they don’t require high humidity. However, occasional misting can be beneficial in dry climates.
10. Philodendron (Philodendron spp.): The Versatile Climber
Philodendrons are a diverse group of plants with a variety of foliage shapes and sizes. Some varieties are trailing vines, while others boast large, heart-shaped leaves. They are generally easy to care for and adaptable to different light conditions.
Light: Most Philodendrons prefer medium indirect light, although some varieties can tolerate lower light conditions. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Water: Water your Philodendron when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Allow excess water to drain freely from the pot and avoid overwatering.
Care Tips: Philodendrons prefer a well-draining potting mix. A standard potting mix with added perlite will work well. Repotting needs will vary depending on the growth rate of your specific Philodendron variety. When repotting becomes necessary due to rootboundness, choose a pot only slightly larger than the previous one. Philodendrons tolerate average household humidity but appreciate occasional misting, especially in dry climates. Some varieties can be trained to climb a moss pole or trellis.
11. Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata): The Architectural Delight
The Ponytail Palm is a unique plant with a swollen bulbous base at the soil level and long, cascading, ponytail-like green leaves. It’s a slow grower but adds a touch of architectural interest to any space.
Light: Ponytail Palms prefer bright indirect light. Some direct morning sunlight is okay, but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Water: Water your Ponytail Palm very infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings, and even longer during the winter months. Overwatering is the leading cause of problems with this plant.
Care Tips: Ponytail Palms prefer a well-draining cactus mix or a mixture of potting soil with added perlite and sand. They are slow growers and don’t require frequent repotting. When repotting becomes necessary due to rootboundness, choose a pot only slightly larger than the previous one. Since they are succulents, they don’t require high humidity.
12. Air Plant (Tillandsia spp.): The No-Soil Wonder
Air Plants are a unique group of plants that don’t require soil. They absorb moisture and nutrients from the air through tiny scales on their leaves. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, making them a conversation starter in any home.
Light: Air Plants prefer bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day.
Water: Watering methods for Air Plants vary depending on the species. Some varieties require soaking in water for a few hours every week, while others benefit from frequent misting. Always research the specific needs of your chosen Air Plant variety.
Care Tips: Air Plants don’t need soil, but they do appreciate a well-draining mounting medium like cork or driftwood. Fertilize them occasionally with a diluted orchid fertilizer. Air Plants thrive in moderate to high humidity levels. Regular misting or using a pebble tray with water can help increase humidity around them.
13. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata): The Humid-Loving Beauty
The Boston Fern is a classic houseplant with delicate, feathery fronds cascading from a central crown. It adds a touch of elegance and lushness to any space, but it does require slightly higher humidity levels than most other beginner-friendly plants.
Light: Boston Ferns prefer bright indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the fronds.
Water: Water your Boston Fern regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Allow excess water to drain freely from the pot. The fronds may also benefit from occasional misting, especially in dry climates.
Care Tips: Boston Ferns prefer a well-draining potting mix that retains moisture well. A mixture of potting soil, peat moss, and perlite will work well. They are moderately fast growers and may require repotting every 1-2 years. Boston Ferns thrive in high humidity levels. Grouping them with other humidity-loving plants, using a pebble tray with water, or running a humidifier can help create a more suitable environment.
14. Bromeliad (Bromeliaceae spp.): The Colorful Charmer
Bromeliads are a diverse group of flowering plants known for their vibrant bracts (modified leaves) that come in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, orange, and yellow. The actual flowers are typically small and inconspicuous but add to the overall visual appeal.
Light: Light requirements for Bromeliads vary depending on the species. Some prefer bright indirect light, while others can tolerate lower light conditions. Always research the specific needs of your chosen Bromeliad variety.
Water: Watering methods for Bromeliads can be a little unconventional. Fill the central cup (formed by the rosette of leaves) with water and allow it to drain completely between waterings. You can also water the soil around the base of the plant moderately, allowing excess water to drain freely from the pot.
Care Tips: Bromeliads prefer a well-draining potting mix that is high in organic matter. A mixture of orchid bark, potting soil, and perlite will work well. They are not fast growers and typically don’t require frequent repotting. Bromeliads appreciate moderate to high humidity levels. Grouping them with other humidity-loving plants, using a pebble tray with water, or running a humidifier can help create a more suitable environment. Most Bromeliads only bloom once, but the colorful bracts can last for several months.
15. Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii): The Festive Charmer
The Christmas Cactus is a delightful succulent that explodes with vibrant blooms in shades of red, pink, and white during the winter holiday season. Its segmented, flattened stems and minimal care requirements make it a perfect choice for beginners.
Light: Christmas Cacti prefer bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day.
Water: Water your Christmas Cactus moderately, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering is the leading cause of problems with this succulent. Water more frequently during the blooming period (late fall and winter) and less frequently during the rest of the year.
Care Tips: Christmas Cacti prefer a well-draining cactus mix or a mixture of potting soil with added perlite and sand. They are slow growers and don’t require frequent repotting. When repotting becomes necessary due to rootboundness, choose a pot only slightly larger than the previous one. Since they are succulents, they don’t require high humidity. However, occasional misting can be beneficial in dry climates. An interesting fact: Christmas Cacti actually require shorter days and cooler night temperatures to initiate flower bud formation. You can encourage blooming by providing them with 12-14 hours of darkness per night for 6-8 weeks before the desired bloom time.
16. African Violet (Saintpaulia ionantha): The Delicate Charmer
African Violets are known for their beautiful, velvety flowers that bloom throughout the year with proper care. They come in a wide range of colors, from classic purple and white to bi-colored and variegated varieties. While they require slightly more attention than some other beginner-friendly plants, their delicate beauty makes them a worthwhile addition to your collection.
Light: African Violets prefer bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves and flowers. A north-facing window or a spot near an east-facing window with filtered light can be ideal.
Water: Watering African Violets can be tricky. Avoid getting water on the leaves or crown, as this can lead to rot. The most common methods include watering from the bottom by placing the pot in a saucer filled with water for a short period or using a self-watering pot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Care Tips: African Violets prefer a well-draining, light potting mix specifically formulated for these plants. They are slow growers and don’t require frequent repotting. When repotting becomes necessary due to rootboundness, choose a pot only slightly larger than the previous one. African Violets thrive in moderate humidity levels. Grouping them with other plants, using a pebble tray with water, or running a humidifier can help create a more suitable environment. Deadheading spent flowers will encourage continued blooming.
17. Coloured Croton (Codiaeum variegatum): The Bold Beauty
The Coloured Croton, also known as the Croton Plant, is a stunning foliage plant with vibrant leaves that come in a kaleidoscope of colors, including green, yellow, orange, red, and purple. It adds a touch of drama and tropical flair to any space. While it requires slightly more attention to light and humidity than some other beginner-friendly plants, its captivating foliage makes it a worthwhile challenge.
Light: Coloured Crotons prefer bright, indirect light. Some direct morning sunlight is okay, but avoid harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves.
Water: Water your Coloured Croton regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Allow excess water to drain freely from the pot. The leaves may also benefit from occasional misting, especially in dry climates.
Care Tips: Coloured Crotons prefer a well-draining potting mix that retains moisture well. A mixture of potting soil, peat moss, and perlite will work well. They are moderate growers and may require repotting every 1-2 years. Coloured Crotons thrive in moderate to high humidity levels. Grouping them with other humidity-loving plants, using a pebble tray with water, or running a humidifier can help create a more suitable environment.
Bonus Tips for Plant Parenting Success
Now that you’ve been introduced to our top 17 beginner-friendly plants, here are some additional tips to ensure your plant parenting journey is a success:
- Choosing the Perfect Pot: Plants need proper drainage to prevent root rot. Look for pots with drainage holes at the bottom. Opt for terracotta pots for plants that prefer to dry out between waterings and glazed ceramic pots for those that enjoy slightly more moisture.
- Understanding Overwatering and Underwatering: Both overwatering and underwatering can be detrimental to your plants. Here are some signs to watch out for:
- Overwatering: Yellowing leaves, drooping stems, mushy soil, and unpleasant odor from the soil.
- Underwatering: Dry, crispy leaves, wilting stems, and the pot feeling very lightweight when lifted.
- Fertilizing: Most houseplants don’t require frequent fertilization. A balanced liquid fertilizer applied once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) is usually sufficient.
- Know When to Repot: As your plant grows, it will eventually outgrow its current pot. Signs of needing a repot include roots circling the pot’s drainage holes and the plant drying out quickly after watering. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the previous one to avoid overwatering in the new pot.
Wrapping Up
The world of indoor plants is an exciting one, filled with endless possibilities. With these top 17 beginner-friendly options and the additional tips provided, you’re well on your way to becoming a confident plant parent. So, embrace the greenery, breathe life into your space, and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of caring for these little companions.