Even those without a green thumb can appreciate the beauty of houseplants – if you’re one of those people, this post is for you! We’ve compiled information on 32 low-maintenance plants ranging from tiny succulents all the way to small trees, something for every skill level. This outdoorsy touch is a great way to boost mood, add color to your interior, and build up gardening skill. Many people even enjoy keeping houseplants to purify the air, but it’s important to consider some important caveats to that NASA study everyone keeps mentioning about – with that in mind, this list focuses on attractive aesthetics and easy maintenance only. Enjoy the search!
Chinese Money Plant: Pilea peperomioides, commonly known as the Chinese money plant, has such a distinctive look with its round coin-like leaves and straight stems – they look gorgeous in short pots like the one pictured. These hardy plants grow quickly with a once-a-week watering (depending on the temperature in your home) and will happily thrive in bright spaces but don’t require direct sunlight.
Silver Dollar Plant: If you’re looking for drought-tolerant plants, succulents like the Xerosicyos danguyi are fantastic, but it helps to get a container with good drainage like these ceramic and bamboo planters. Xerosicyos are actually a climbing succulent so be prepared to leave a little headroom wherever you display them! A space with direct sunlight is best.
Jade Plant: Jade plants (Crassula ovata) are an especially interesting succulent due to its unique bush-like structure that makes it suitable to trim as a bonsai. And under the right conditions, you might even see pink flower blossoms! These plants might develop red or yellowish tint with too much sunlight, but they require very little water in the summertime and even less in winter.
Oxalis: Oxalis triangularis, or false shamrock, is a houseplant native to Brazil, known for its bold and vibrant coloration that can range from violet to crimson. The included link is for the bulbs only but should sprout within a week and may even bloom into lavender flowers within 10 weeks. These look great in a light colored pot. Oxalis requires multiple hours of direct sunlight each day so they’re perfect for a sunny spot in the garden too! Like many houseplants, this one is isn’t good for pets to nibble on, so always exercise caution when choosing placement for display.
ZZ Plant: Zamioculcas zamiifolia grow tall and substantial to make a brilliant impression in any room. They’re easy to care for, preferring bright indirect light and small amounts of plant food.
String Of Pearls: What a unique houseplant! Guests are sure to comment on the grace of your beautiful Senecio rowleyanus as its delicate tendrils of round beads overflow its planter. These are great for hanging or draping over a pedestal, preferably in a location just out of the reach of direct sunlight. Plant in loose cactus soil and be careful to avoid overwatering for best results.
Tillandsia: Succulents from the Tillandsia family are some of the easiest to care for – outside of an occasional misting, they’ll take all the water they need right from the humidity in the air. Another benefit is the lack of root system, making it easy to create fascinating arrangements like the cool sea urchin shell planters above. Pictured are Tillandsia oaxacana, one of the most common and easy to care for species of Tillandsia.
Donkey Tail Plant: Sedum morganianum is a wonderfully unique flowering succulent that lends itself to unique planters like the ones featured above. These plants enjoy bright direct light but not extreme heat, and require regular watering in warm weather but too much watering can hurt it during its dormant winter stage. Are you curious to learn more about growing and caring for succulents like these? Succulents Simplified is a book that covers 100 low-maintenance varieties, including the donkey tail plant.
Asparagus Fern: Feathery fern-like tendrils make the Asparagus setaceus look lighter than a cloud. They’re a popular indoor plant due to their low-maintenance needs (preferring bright indirect light and watering when dry), but the dried fronds are popular in flower arrangements as well. Do you love the planter? You can purchase it by following this link.
Boston Fern: Nephrolepis exaltata is a topical fern that just bursts with energy and volume. These Boston ferns prefer damp high-nutrient soil and bright filtered light. They look spectacular as a hanging plant, on a pedestal, or even on an ordinary side table. It’s hard to go wrong with a fern as gorgeous and hardy as this one.