Plants are a great way to add a touch of nature to your home, and they have been shown to have numerous benefits for both physical and mental health. However, if you’re new to plant care, it can be intimidating to try and keep a delicate species alive. That’s where low maintenance plants step in, as they can withstand a bit of neglect and still thrive, which makes them a great option for beginner gardeners.
So whether you’re looking for a small succulent to add to your windowsill or a larger, leafy plant to fill a corner of your living room, there’s a low maintenance option out there for you. Don’t be afraid to give indoor gardening a try – with a bit of TLC, these plants will go a long way.
Table of Contents
1. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
Let’s start our list with the Zamioculcas zamiifolia, also known as the “Eternity Plant.” This plant is perfect for those who want a low maintenance option that can survive with minimal light, water, and fertilizer. Plus, it can flourish in a shaded area and sprout new growth with vibrant green leaves.
And if you’re looking for more visual interest, consider the ’Dowon’ cultivar, which comes with jet-black leaves that beautifully contrast the green new growth.
It’s important to note that the entire ZZ plant is toxic to both humans and pets, so it may not be the best choice if your furry friends tend to tamper with your plants. However, if that’s not the case and it’s love at first sight, make sure to check out our guide on how to care for your ZZ plant.
2. Pothos (Epipremnum Aureum)
Besides being undemanding in terms of care, Pothos plants come in a wide range of shapes and forms, from the classic green and white variegated leaves to striking golden and neon varieties. We even wrote an article highlighting some of the unique and lesser-known types of pothos you can add to your collection.
They can adapt to low to medium light conditions, but will still require regular watering to maintain a healthy appearance.
3. Philodendrons
Philodendrons are a must-have addition to any list of low maintenance houseplants. Their resilient nature and minimal care requirements make them an ideal choice for plant enthusiasts of all levels.
These plants can adapt to a variety of lighting conditions, from low to bright, and will forgive some negligence. And for those interested in learning more about the many varieties of Philodendrons available, check out this article for more information.
4. Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata)
Meet the Ponytail Palm, a low maintenance plant that can thrive even with a little bit of neglect. Despite its name, the Beaucarnea recurvata is actually a succulent and a member of the Agave family. Its unique, curly, hair-like leaves and water-storing trunk make it a visually striking addition to any indoor garden.
As a succulent, it is known for its self-sufficient characteristics, making it a great choice for those who might forget to water their houseplants. In addition, the Ponytail Palm is non-toxic to humans and pets, so it’s safe for all members of the family.
5. Snake Plant (Sansevieria spp.)
If you’re looking for an uncomplicated houseplant that can thrive on neglect, the Snake Plant is another excellent choice. With its ability to grow in low-light conditions and withstand drought, it can still look stunning even if it’s ignored for weeks. In this case, too much TLC might actually kill it.
The best part about snake plants is their diverse range of shapes and forms, which can be used as an excuse to buy more of them. And if you want to see what your options are, check out our article on snake plant varieties.
6. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants are extremely easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. They prefer bright, indirect sunlight but can also tolerate low light environments. They are also drought-tolerant and only need to be watered once the soil has dried out.
Also known for their ability to purify the air by removing toxins and other pollutants, Spider plants are especially effective at removing formaldehyde, which is found in many household products such as paints and cleaning supplies.
7. Jade plant (Crassula ovata)
Jade plants (Crassula ovata) are a great choice for beginner gardeners due to their simple care requirements. Their thick, fleshy leaves store water, allowing them to tolerate periods of drought, which means that you won’t have to worry about the last time you watered it.
In fact, it’s best to allow the soil to dry out completely before watering it again, making sure to allow excess water to drain away from the roots. These plants are also resistant to pests and diseases, further reducing the need for maintenance.
In addition to being easy to care for, Jade plants have some interesting cultural significance. In many parts of the world, they are considered to be good luck plants and are often given as gifts. They are also believed to bring prosperity and good fortune to their owners.
8. Yucca (Yucca spp.)
Yucca plants are another great pick for beginner gardeners because they are drought-tolerant and they can thrive in a variety of soil types. In addition, yucca plants are resistant to pests, so you won’t have to worry about dealing with pesky insects.
Besides being a decorative addition to you house, Yucca plants have some other uses too. The leaves can be used to make baskets, sandals, and even rope, while the roots have been used medicinally by indigenous people for centuries to treat a variety of ailments.
9. Dragon Tree (Dracaena marginata)
Dracaena Marginata can survive in a range of soil moisture levels and don’t require frequent watering. In fact, it is important to allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering to prevent the plant from becoming overwatered. They are also very tolerant when it comes to lighting conditions, being able to thrive in low light environments.
Additionally, dragon trees are also believed to bring good luck and prosperity to those who own them, making them a popular choice for use in Feng Shui practices.
Check out our article for more information on how to care for a Dragon Tree.
10. Air Plants (Tillandsia spp.)
If you love plants, but don’t want to get messy with the potting part, air plants are your friends! They absorb nutrients and moisture from the air, requiring only occasional watering, which makes them an ideal option for those who lack a green thumb or time to devote to plant care.
Apart from being low-maintenance, air plants can be showcased in a variety of ways. They can be suspended in a terrarium, affixed to a wall or driftwood, or placed in a decorative container. This allows you to experiment with various plant displays and discover a style that suits your preferences.
11. Aloe Vera (Aloe vera spp.)
And since you can’t trust an article on low maintenance houseplants that doesn’t mention Aloe in it, well… here it is! Aloe spp. can tolerate drought conditions and do well in a variety of lighting conditions, from full sun to partial shade. They can be grown in pots or in the ground, making them suitable for a decent range of garden spaces.
Interesting fact: Aloe vera plants are also known as “the plant of immortality” because they can live for a very long time with proper care. They are also said to bring good luck to the homes in which they are grown!
12. Bromeliads
Known for their beautiful and colorful flowers, Bromeliads are often seen like high-maintenance plants that are more suitable for greenhouses. However, in reality, they are very easy to care for and require minimal maintenance. They can thrive in a range of lighting conditions, from low light to bright indirect light, and don’t require frequent watering. In fact, it is important to allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering to prevent root rot.
Conclusion
Indoor plants are a wonderful addition to any home or office space. Not only do they add a touch of natural beauty and bring life to a room, but they also have numerous benefits for your health and overall well-being.
If you are considering adding some indoor plants to your space, you may be wondering which ones are the easiest to care for. The good news is that there are many options available that require minimal maintenance and attention!
In addition to the benefits mentioned above, indoor plants can also add a personal touch to your space and bring a sense of joy and connection to nature. Whether you choose a small succulent or a large, leafy ficus, the act of caring for a living thing can be incredibly rewarding. So why not give an indoor plant a try and see the positive impact it can have on your environment? With a little bit of care and attention, you can enjoy all the benefits that indoor plants have to offer.
No Comments