Some people seem to have a knack for encouraging green things to grow all around them. They have a sixth sense for just when to water, and every room in their house is filled to the brim with happy, healthy, vibrant houseplants. 

Then there are those who buy a new plant, filled with hope, only to finally toss it a few weeks or months later when it’s shriveled and brown, and they’ve finally given up. 

If you count yourself in the latter category, then this list is for you. Do you spend some part of every month traveling? Are there no good sunny windows in your house or apartment? Is watering on a regular schedule just not your thing? These plants seem to thrive on neglect. 

Some just don’t need to be watered very often. Others can handle super-light situations. You can think of them as the cats of houseplants; they’re fine with a little attention, but they can also take care of themselves. 

1. Cast-Iron Plant (Aspidistra Elatior)

Also known as the “bar room plant,” the Cast-Iron Plant is renowned for its ability to thrive on neglect. This hardy plant can tolerate low light, infrequent watering, and varying temperatures, making it an ideal choice for beginners. 

The Cast-Iron Plant’s broad, dark green leaves add a touch of elegance to any room. To care for this plant, water it when the top few inches of soil feel dry and ensure it is planted in well-draining soil. 

This plant’s resilience makes it perfect for those who are often away from home or who tend to forget their watering schedules. Its ability to withstand less-than-ideal conditions makes it a staple for any home.

2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

The ZZ Plant is one of the easiest houseplants to care for, known for its glossy, waxy leaves that can brighten up any indoor space. This plant is incredibly drought-tolerant and can survive in low to bright indirect light, making it versatile for various home environments. 

It must only be watered every few weeks when the soil is mostly dry, making it perfect for busy individuals. The ZZ Plant’s ability to withstand neglect and still look stunning makes it a top choice for those new to houseplants or for anyone looking to add a low-maintenance plant to their collection.

3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

Pothos, often called Devil’s Ivy, is a hardy plant that can thrive in various light conditions, from low to bright indirect light. It is known for its trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves, which can add a lush, green touch to any indoor space. 

Pothos is also tolerant of dry air and infrequent watering, making it an excellent choice for those who may not have the time to maintain a strict watering schedule. 

This plant can be grown in soil or water, and it’s virtually impossible to kill, making it perfect for beginners. Just ensure it is not overwatered, and it will continue to thrive.

4. Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron Hederaceum)

The Heartleaf Philodendron is a classic houseplant known for its easy care and attractive, heart-shaped leaves. This plant is perfect for beginners as it can tolerate low light and infrequent watering. 

It thrives in indirect light and only needs to be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry. The Heartleaf Philodendron is also a great air purifier, making it a beneficial addition to your indoor space. 

Its trailing vines can be trained to climb or hang, adding a touch of greenery to shelves or hanging baskets. This resilient plant is perfect for those looking to add some greenery without the hassle of intensive care.

5. Snake Plant (Dracaena Trifasciata)

The Snake Plant, also known as Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, is nearly indestructible and perfect for any indoor setting. It can tolerate low light levels and infrequent watering, making it an ideal choice for beginners. 

This plant’s tall, upright leaves are striking and can add a modern touch to your decor. Snake Plants are also known for their air-purifying qualities, removing toxins from the air. 

Overwatering is the only sure way to harm this plant, so it’s best to let the soil dry out completely between waterings. This hardy plant is perfect for those who travel frequently or may forget to water regularly.

6. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema commutatum)

The Chinese Evergreen is one of the most adaptable and easy-to-care-for houseplants. It thrives in low to medium light conditions and can tolerate infrequent watering. This plant has beautiful, variegated leaves that can add a splash of color to any room. 

The Chinese Evergreen is also known for its air-purifying properties, making it a healthy addition to your home. It prefers well-draining soil and should be allowed to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. 

This resilient plant is perfect for those looking to add a touch of green to their space without much effort.

7. Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)

Lucky Bamboo is a popular indoor plant known for its unique appearance and low maintenance needs. Despite its name, it is not a true bamboo but a type of Dracaena. Lucky Bamboo can thrive in low light and grow in water or soil. 

If grown in water, it’s important to change the water weekly and ensure the roots are submerged. If grown in soil, keep it slightly moist. 

This plant symbolizes good luck and prosperity, making it a great addition to your home or office. Its ability to thrive with minimal care makes it a perfect choice for those new to houseplants.

8. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

Spider Plants are a favorite among houseplant enthusiasts for their easy care and attractive, arching leaves. They can adapt to various light conditions, from low to bright indirect light, and only need to be watered when the soil is dry. 

Spider Plants are also known for producing “babies” or offsets, which can be propagated to create new plants. These plants are great for hanging baskets or placing on shelves where their foliage can cascade. 

Spider Plants are also excellent air purifiers, removing toxins from the air. Their resilience and ability to thrive with minimal care make them ideal for beginners.

9. Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)

The Prayer Plant is known for its striking foliage and unique habit of folding its leaves at night as if praying. This plant prefers moderate to low light and needs to be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry. 

The Prayer Plant’s vibrant, patterned leaves can add a touch of color to any indoor space. It thrives in humid environments, so misting the plant regularly or placing it on a pebble tray can help keep it happy. 

The Prayer Plant’s ability to adapt to lower light conditions and its relatively low maintenance needs make it a great choice for indoor gardeners.

10. Aloe (Aloe vera)

Aloe Vera is a popular succulent known for its medicinal properties and easy care. This plant thrives in bright light but can also tolerate lower light levels. 

Aloe Vera needs well-draining soil and should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. 

Overwatering can cause root rot, so it’s best to err on the side of underwatering. Aloe Vera’s thick, fleshy leaves contain a gel that can be used to soothe minor burns and skin irritations. 

This hardy plant is perfect for sunny windowsills and is a great choice for those new to houseplants.

11. Fiddle-Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)

The Fiddle-Leaf Fig is a popular houseplant known for its large, glossy leaves and dramatic presence. While it can be a bit more finicky than some other plants on this list, it is still relatively easy to care for with the right conditions. 

Fiddle-leaf figs prefer bright, indirect light and should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry. They thrive in well-draining soil and benefit from regular dusting to keep their leaves clean and healthy. 

This plant can grow quite tall, making it a striking focal point in any room. With a little attention to its needs, the Fiddle-Leaf Fig can thrive and add a touch of elegance to your home.

12. Monstera (Monstera deliciosa)

Monstera, also known as the Swiss Cheese Plant, is a trendy houseplant known for its large, perforated leaves. This plant prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. 

It should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry, and it thrives in well-draining soil. Monsteras are also relatively low maintenance, only needing occasional pruning to keep their shape. 

This plant’s unique foliage can add a tropical touch to any indoor space. Its ability to adapt to different light conditions and its relatively easy care make it a favorite among plant enthusiasts.

13. Radiator Plant (Peperomia)

Radiator Plants, or Peperomias, are small, easy-to-care-for houseplants that come in various shapes and colors. They prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate low-light conditions. 

These plants should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry, and they thrive in well-draining soil. Radiator Plants are also known for their air-purifying properties, making them a healthy addition to your home. 

Their compact size makes them perfect for small spaces, and their variety of foliage types can add visual interest to any room. These resilient plants are ideal for beginners and seasoned plant owners alike.

14. English Ivy (Hedera helix)

English Ivy is a versatile houseplant known for its trailing vines and attractive, lobed leaves. This plant prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate low-light conditions. It should be watered when the soil feels dry to the touch. 

English Ivy can be grown in hanging baskets, on trellises, or as a ground cover in pots. It is also known for its air-purifying properties, helping to remove toxins from the air. 

This hardy plant is easy to care for and can add a touch of greenery to any indoor space. Its ability to adapt to different light conditions and its trailing habit makes it a popular choice for indoor gardens.

15. Jade Plant (Crassula Ovata)

The Jade Plant, also known as the Money Plant, is a popular succulent known for its thick, fleshy leaves and easy care. This plant prefers bright light but can tolerate lower light conditions. 

It should be watered when the soil is completely dry, and it thrives in well-draining soil. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it’s important to let the soil dry out between waterings. 

Jade Plants are also known for their longevity and can live for many years with proper care. Their compact size and attractive foliage make them perfect for desks, windowsills, or small indoor gardens.

16. Philodendron

Philodendrons have long served as a mainstay for the beginner indoor gardener. These plants are easy to care for because, as long as you watch for the signals, they will tell you exactly what they need. 

Even if this is your first time growing a plant, you will have no issues with a philodendron as it readily adapts to its environment. Ensure that you wipe down the leaves of the plant with plenty of fresh water to allow them to absorb sunlight better. 

Philodendrons are like bright, indirect sunlight, so position them near a window where the sun’s rays never actually touch the foliage. 

While it’s normal for older leaves to grow yellow, if it is happening to several leaves simultaneously, the plant might be getting too much light. But if the plant is getting long and leggy, it isn’t getting enough light.

Let the top inch of soil dry out between waterings. Drooping leaves can mean the plant is getting too much or not enough water. 

But philodendrons recover quickly once you correct your watering schedule. Feed the plant fertilizer monthly in spring and summer and every 6-8 weeks in fall and winter. It should be a balanced foliage houseplant fertilizer with macro-nutrients.

17. Money Tree (Pachira aquatica)

The Money Tree is a popular houseplant known for its braided trunk and lush, green leaves. This plant prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. 

It should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry, and it thrives in well-draining soil. The Money Tree is also believed to bring good luck and prosperity, making it a popular choice for homes and offices. 

This hardy plant is relatively low maintenance and can add a touch of greenery and charm to any indoor space. Its ability to adapt to different light conditions and its attractive appearance make it a great choice for beginners.

18. Dieffenbachia (Dieffenbachia spp.)

Dieffenbachia, also known as Dumb Cane, is a popular houseplant known for its large, variegated leaves and easy care. This plant prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. 

It should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry, and it thrives in well-draining soil. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it’s important to let the soil dry out between waterings. 

Dieffenbachia is also known for its air-purifying properties, making it a healthy addition to your home. This resilient plant is perfect for those looking to add a touch of green to their space without much effort.

19. Dragon Tree (Dracaena marginata)

The Dragon Tree is an elegant, sub-tropical plant with strappy foliage and a long stem that makes it ideal for tight spots in your home. 

It is a fantastic choice for beginner plant owners. Dragon Trees prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. They should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry, and they thrive in well-draining soil. 

These hardy plants prefer underwatering to overwatering, so it’s important to let the soil dry out between waterings. The Dragon Tree’s striking appearance and low maintenance needs make it a popular choice for indoor gardens.

20. Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea Recurvata)

The Ponytail Palm is another plant that is growing in popularity. Its sleek, bulb-like trunk and lush, long, curly leaves make it visually stunning. It is also a highly forgiving and easy-to-care-for plant, making it ideal for beginners. 

Surprisingly, this plant isn’t actually a palm but a large form of succulent. It needs bright light but will be okay if it only gets bright light half the time. 

Ponytail Palms prefer to be rootbound in dry soil, so when you repot, make sure the new pot is only an inch or so wider than the old pot. They only need to be fertilized 2-3 times a year.

21. Schefflera

The Schefflera is a trendy plant and comes in many varieties. The most well-known is the umbrella tree. Schefflera is popular because it is so easy to care for and keep healthy and lush. These plants prefer medium light, meaning they need bright but indirect light. 

If your Schefflera is getting leggy and floppy, it means it isn’t getting enough light. And bright, direct sunlight can burn the leaves, so make sure you place your plant carefully. Watering correctly is also important to keep your schefflera happy and healthy. 

Wait until the soil in the pot dries out, and then thoroughly soak the soil when you water. Don’t overwater, as this will eventually kill it. If the leaves are getting yellow and falling off, this is a sign you are watering too much.

Pruning your Schefflera is important, especially if it isn’t getting enough light. Pruning is simple. Just cut off anything you feel is overgrown or leggy back to the size or shape you like. These plants quickly rebound from pruning and will grow fuller and more lush after pruning. 

You don’t need to fertilize your Schefflera, but if you want to, you can give it a half-solution water-soluble fertilizer once a year. These plants are poisonous to both people and animals if eaten. While not fatal, it will cause a burning sensation, swelling, difficulty swallowing, and, in some cases, difficulty breathing.

22. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)

The Cast Iron Plant, also known as the “bar room plant,” is renowned for its ability to thrive on neglect. This hardy plant can tolerate low light, infrequent watering, and varying temperatures, making it an ideal choice for beginners. 

The Cast Iron Plant’s broad, dark green leaves add a touch of elegance to any room. To care for this plant, water it when the top few inches of soil feel dry and ensure it is planted in well-draining soil. 

This plant’s resilience makes it perfect for those who are often away from home or who tend to forget their watering schedules.

23. Dracaena (Dracaena spp.)

Dracaena is a popular houseplant known for its striking, sword-like leaves and easy care. This plant prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. 

It should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry, and it thrives in well-draining soil. Dracaena is also known for its air-purifying properties, making it a healthy addition to your home. 

This resilient plant is perfect for those looking to add a touch of green to their space without much effort. Its ability to adapt to different light conditions and its attractive appearance make it a great choice for beginners.

24. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)

The Parlor Palm is a classic houseplant known for its graceful, feathery fronds and easy care. This plant prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. 

It should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry, and it thrives in well-draining soil. The Parlor Palm is also known for its air-purifying properties, making it a healthy addition to your home. 

This resilient plant is perfect for those looking to add a touch of green to their space without much effort. Its elegant appearance and low maintenance needs make it a popular choice for indoor gardens.

25. Rubber Plant

Also known as Ficus elastica, these large trees can grow up to 50 feet tall. There are a few key things to remember when caring for rubber plants, but they are still straightforward to care for. 

It is important to start with a young rubber plant if you are keeping it inside, as it will adapt better to being an indoor plant than a mature plant. Your rubber plant needs bright light but prefers indirect light that isn’t too hot. 

Some people recommend putting it near a window that has sheer curtains. This allows plenty of light but not too much heat. Rubber plants also need the right balance of water. It must be kept moist and watered at least once a week during the growing season. 

It is also important to wipe off the leaves of your rubber plant with a damp cloth or spritz them with water. When the plant is dormant, it only needs to be watered once or twice a month.

Wrap up 

Bringing a touch of green into your home doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With these 25 indoor plants, even those who struggle to keep plants alive can enjoy the benefits of indoor greenery. 

From the hardy ZZ Plant to the elegant Parlor Palm, there is a plant for every space and lifestyle. These plants are not only easy to care for but also offer various benefits, from air purification to aesthetic enhancement.