If you enjoy having plants in the house but lack the time or skill to care for them, don't worry! Many low-maintenance plants are suitable for people who want to enjoy the beauty of indoor greenery without stress.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to some of the most easy-to-care-for plants, ranging from succulents requiring little water to foliage species that thrive in low-light conditions. Whether you’re a newbie or simply searching for a low-maintenance addition to your house, there’s bound to be a plant on our list that’s ideal for you.
Snake Plant
Exceptionally low-maintenance, the hardy snake plant adapts to various growing conditions, including low light. It’s a resilient succulent that doesn’t need much watering...or care. Its striking, sword-shaped leaves lengthen the room's height and contrast nicely against the more common, organic shapes at home.
Now, the “Snake Plant” collectively identifies these plants with an upright structure and sword-like leaves. But you’ll find that there are plenty of varieties under the name snake plant, and here are some of our top picks:
- Mother-in-law’s Tongue is, safe to say, the most popular variety, and it has vibrant green leaves with a yellow border.
- Futura robusta is also a common variety with silver-green foliage and dark green horizontal stripes.
- Moonshine is picking up popularity these days, and it’s recognizable by its broad, silvery, faint green leaves.
ZZ Plant
There is something quite special about the Zamioculcas zamiifolia (aka ZZ Plant), with its shiny, oval, deep green leaves that grow upward. This beauty can handle a bit of drought and still thrive. It can survive different lighting conditions, too. But harsh, direct sunlight tends to change the color of the leaves, typically in uniform deep green.
Devil’s Ivy or Pothos Plant
The Golden Pothos, also known as Epipremnum aureum, is a great houseplant. It is easy to care for and adaptable to different environments. It can thrive in low light and doesn’t need much watering. Plus, its heart-shaped leaves are beautiful and add a touch of green to any space.
Another thing, this plant species is a prolific grower and when left unchecked, can become invasive to other plants.
Guiana Chestnut or Money Tree
Money Trees add a tropical forest flair to any home, thanks to its braided stem and vibrant green leaves. Also known as Pachira aquatica, this beauty can thrive in any light, from low to bright, as long as you give it regular watering. But be careful not to drown it.
This plant is also believed to bring good luck, prosperity, and fortune. And who doesn't want an extra bit of luck?
Spider Plant
The Spider Plant, Chlorophytum comosum, is a popular houseplant for a few reasons. It's easy to care for and can tolerate different conditions, making it a great choice for beginners. Of course, it’s also an attractive plant with its long, slender leaves that can soften your space. Plus, dainty, small, and white flowers may also bloom when it matures, something that’s worth the wait.
Chinese Money Plant
Meet the Chinese money plant, or Pilea peperomioides, an easy-going indoor plant for beginners. It doesn’t mind a little shade but loves a bright spot, too. Note, bright light but not direct.
Just let the top inch of soil dry out before watering to avoid root rot. And don’t worry about fertilizing too often - this plant doesn’t really need it. So if you want a low-maintenance, stylish addition to your indoor space, the Chinese money plant is your perfect match.
Monstera
You can bring a touch of the tropics to your home with the Monstera deliciosa. This popular houseplant boasts large, glossy leaves adorned with unique Swiss cheese-like holes. Not only is it a visual stunner, but it’s also a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in various indoor environments.
This plant may not demand much attention, but it's a vine. So, it needs support like a moss pole, especially when grown indoors. You can ditch the pole and let your monstera be. It'll be fine. But some plant parents say that monsteras grown on a moss pole have larger leaves and more fenestrations.
Cast Iron Plant
The Cast Iron Plant is a hardy species that's popular among indoor and outdoor gardeners. It thrives in low light conditions and requires minimal watering, making it easy to care for. Plus, its deep green, glossy leaves that droop slightly add elegance. It's vibrant enough to pop, and it grows dense as it matures, making your space look like it has more plants than it actually does.
Overall, the Aspidistra elatior or Cast Iron Plant is a reliable and low-maintenance choice for those looking to add some greenery to their home or garden without breaking a lot of sweat.
String of Hearts
The charming String of Hearts plant, also called Ceropegia woodii is a trailing vine. It has dainty stems that can reach up to three feet and is adorned with silver-lined heart-shaped leaves in a verdant shade of green. It also produces small, tubular, and purple flowers that may bloom sporadically throughout the year.
Besides being low-maintenance, what we like best about the string of hearts is that it has a whimsical appeal that can make your space extra dreamy.
Rubber Plant
The Rubber Plant, also known as Rubber Fig, is visually striking. The thick and waxy leaves are large and glossy and come in shades of dark green, burgundy, or variegated. It's a pop of color in any space, and it's unique texture provides a pleasant contrast against other plants.
These low-maintenance beauties thrive with just a little TLC - bright, indirect sunlight and regular watering. But beware - too much water can harm it (as it does many plant species), so let the soil dry out between watering. It can also grow up to 6 to 10 feet tall, so you will have to prune. For an extra boost, wipe down the leaves now and then to keep them looking fresh and clean.