31 Beginner Friendly Low-Maintenance Houseplants

If you’re looking for low-maintenance houseplants to add to your indoor garden, you should first consider the environment your new plants will call home. First, think about the amount of light your space gets. Next, decide how much watering your plants will need. If you’re busy and don’t have time to water often, or you think you’re going to forget, choose plants that can tolerate periods of drought.

You’ll also likely want to consider looks. Some indoor plants will bloom, while others will not. Other houseplants can have red leaves, or purple leaves, while others are just green. Some houseplants are vines, while others are more straightforward, like succulents or cacti. Each of these type of indoor plants will have a different appearance.

With these things in mind, you should be able to narrow down what you are looking for to find the perfect indoor plant that has low maintenance needs. Keep in mind, these plants aren’t impossible to kill. They just require a little less maintenance than others. So, to help you further along the path of finding the right plant, we’ve put together a comprehensive list of our favorite houseplants that need minimal care. Let’s jump in!

African Spear

Scientific Name: Sansevieria cylindrica

• Plant Type: Succulent
• Geographic Origin: Africa
• Size: 4-6ft tall
• Sun Exposure: Full, partial
• Zone: 10-11

The African spear plant, commonly referred to as the cylindrical snake plant, is a low-maintenance succulent native to West Africa. The plant consists of upright, cylindrical-shaped striped leaves that can grow up to six feet tall, although it is a slow-growing plant.

The African spear plant is an excellent choice for those looking for a low-maintenance houseplant that is also drought-tolerant because it does not require frequent watering. In addition, it’s one of the most resilient plants. This succulent can tolerate low light levels and dry air.

Aloe Vera

Scientific Name: Aloe barbadensis miller

• Plant Type: Succulent, herb, perennial
• Geographic Origin: Africa
• Size: 1-3ft tall
• Sun Exposure: Full, partial
• Zone: 10-12

Aloe vera is a succulent plant that is popularly grown as a houseplant. Its leaves contain a gel that is used to soothe sunburns and other skin irritations. The plant is native to Africa, but can be found in many parts of the world. Aloe vera is relatively easy to care for and does not require much attention.

However, it is important to keep the plant in a well-ventilated space and to water it regularly. When watering, be sure to let the water drain completely and do not allow the plant to sit in water for long periods. With proper care, aloe vera can thrive indoors and provide years of enjoyment.

Asparagus Fern

Scientific Name: Asparagus densiflorus

• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Geographic Origin: South Africa
• Size: Up to 3ft tall
• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light
• Zone: 9-11

The Asparagus Fern is a beautiful and easy-to-care-for plant that makes a great addition to any home. Its delicate, lacy foliage forms a dense mound that is perfect for creating an elegant focal point in any room. The key to keeping your Asparagus Fern healthy and happy is to provide it with plenty of water.

During the warmer months, you should water your plant weekly, making sure that the soil stays moist but not soggy. In the winter, you can reduce watering to every other week. With just a little care, your Asparagus Fern will thrive for years to come.

Calathea

Scientific Name: Calathea

• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Geographic Origin: South America
• Size: 6in-3ft tall
• Sun Exposure: Partial sunlight, full shade
• Zone: 11b-12b

Calathea is one of the most distinctive and beautiful houseplants around thanks to their dazzling colors, stripes, and oblong leaves. These tropical plants can be grown indoors year-round and while they’ve received a reputation for a somewhat finicky maintenance routine; however, they’re quite low-maintenance when the plant’s needs are met.

The most important thing is to keep them away from drafts and out of the direct sun, which can scorch their leaves. They also prefer evenly moist soil, so be sure to water them regularly and mist their leaves occasionally

Cast Iron Plant

Scientific Name: Aspidistra elatior

• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Geographic Origin: Asia
• Size: 2-3ft tall
• Sun Exposure: Partial shade
• Zone: 8-10

The cast iron plant (Aspidistra elatior) is a tough plant that can withstand neglect. It’s an evergreen that originates from Asia. It’s also called bar-room plant, corridor plant, iron princess, or ballroom plant. The cast iron plant gets its name because it’s very tolerant of neglect and can thrive in locations with little natural light, such as dimly lit hallways or bars.

Chinese Evergreen

Scientific Name: Aglaonema commutatum

• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Geographic Origin: Asia
• Size: 1-2ft tall
• Sun Exposure: Partial to full shade
• Zone: 10-12

The Chinese evergreen is a popular houseplant for a reason: it’s easy to care for and comes in a range of beautiful colors. From dark green and silver to red, these plants add personality and a pop of color to your home’s decor.

Plus, the Chinese Evergreen is a slow-growing plant, so it’s perfect for those who don’t want a lot of upkeep. Not to mention, Chinese evergreens can be potted and cared for year-round, so there’s no need to worry about harsh winters or hot summers doing damage to your new houseplant.

Chinese Money Plant

Scientific Name: Pilea peperomioides

• Plant Type: Evergreen perennial
• Geographic Origin: China
• Size: 12in tall
• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light
• Zone: 10

The Chinese money plant, also known as the pancake plant or coin plant, is a popular houseplant because of its attractive, bright green leaves and how easy it is to care for. The Chinese money plant is not particularly fussy about watering or light levels thanks to its hardy nature and ability to tolerate low light levels.

However, the plant does prefer warm temperatures and well-drained soil. With a little TLC, this eye-catching plant makes a beautiful addition to any indoor space.

Corn Plant

Scientific Name: Dracaena fragrans

• Plant Type: Evergreen, broad leaf, shrub/tree
• Geographic Origin: Africa
• Size: Up to 6ft when kept in a container
• Sun Exposure: Partial
• Zone: 10-12

The corn plant is a low maintenance houseplant that is native to tropical Africa. They are mostly grown for their decorative leaves which look like stalks of corn grown slowly from thick canes or stems that can reach a height of up to 10 feet tall. However, owners keeping these plants indoors usually keep them much shorter through regular pruning.

The corn plant’s leaves are bright green and have a silky sheen. Corn plants prefer indirect sunlight but can tolerate low light conditions. Plus, they are also fairly drought-tolerant and only need to be watered when the top inch of soil is dry.

Crown of Thorns

Scientific Name: Euphorbia milii

• Plant Type: Succulent
• Geographic Origin: Africa
• Size: Up to 2ft when kept in a container
• Sun Exposure: Full, partial
• Zone: 9-11

The Crown of Thorns plant is a native of Madagascar that has become popular in many other parts of the world as an ornamental plant. The plant gets its name from its distinctive flowers, which are borne on thorny stems. The flowers are typically red, but they can also be white or pink.

Crown of Thorns plants are not particularly difficult to care for because are relatively drought-tolerant. These plants can be propagated by cuttings, and they will sometimes produce offsets (smaller versions of the parent plant).

Dieffenbachia

Scientific Name: Dieffenbachia spp.

• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Geographic Origin: Caribbean, South America
• Size: 3-10ft tall
• Sun Exposure: Partial shade, bright, indirect sunlight
• Zone: 10-12

The Dieffenbachia is a popular houseplant that is known for its large, showy leaves. Native to tropical regions of Central and South America, the Dieffenbachia is a member of the Araceae family, which also includes Philodendrons and Syngonium. The plant gets its common name, Dumb Cane, from the fact that the sap of some species can cause temporary paralysis of the vocal cords if ingested.

The Dieffenbachia is relatively easy to care for and will thrive in most indoor environments. With proper care, the Dieffenbachia can grow to be several feet tall, making it an excellent choice for filling empty spaces in your home.

Donkey’s Tail

Scientific Name: Sedum morganianum

• Plant Type: Evergreen succulent
• Geographic Origin: North America
• Size: 1-4ft long
• Sun Exposure: Full
• Zone: 10, 11

The Donkey’s Tail plant is a succulent that is native to Mexico. It gets its name from its long, tail-like leaves that are often found cascading over the edge of pots or hanging baskets. The plant is relatively easy to care for, and it can tolerate a wide range of light, temperature, and water conditions.

Although it is not known for being a particularly fast-growing plant, the Donkey’s Tail can reach up to two feet in length if it is given enough time and space to grow. In addition to its striking foliage, the plant also produces small white flowers that bloom in the springtime.

Dragon Tree

Scientific Name: Dracaena draco

• Plant Type: Broadleaf evergreen tree
• Geographic Origin: The Canary Islands
• Size: 15-50ft
• Sun Exposure: Full sun, partial shade
• Zone: 9-12

The Dragon Tree is a fascinating plant that is native to the Canary Islands. It gets its name from its long, thin leaves which resemble the scales of a dragon. The Dragon Tree is an evergreen, meaning that it keeps its leaves all year round. In the springtime, the tree produces small white flowers which have a sweet fragrance.

The tree is also very slow-growing, so while it can eventually reach 50ft tall, it can take years for it to reach four feet.

Earth Stars

Scientific Name: Cryptanthus spp.

• Plant Type: Terrestrial bromeliad
• Geographic Origin: Europe, Russia and Scandinavia
• Size: 3in-3ft (varies depending on species)
• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect sun
• Zone: 10-11

Earth Stars grow in a wide range of habitats, from rainforests to mountainsides, although they’re native to Brazil, and come in a variety of colors and sizes. While they are most commonly found in shades of green, red, and purple, some species have leaves that are striped or patterned with stripes of different colors.

Earth stars are relatively easy to care for and make an excellent addition to any indoor garden. Given the right conditions, they will bloom once a year, producing small flowers that peek out from among the leaves.

English Ivy

Scientific Name: Hedera helix

• Plant Type: Perennial, evergreen
• Geographic Origin: Europe, Russia, and Scandinavia
• Size: N/A
• Sun Exposure: Partial to full shade
• Zone: 4-13

English ivy is a very common houseplant that can take many different forms, depending on how it’s pruned. When left to grow unchecked, it will spread out horizontally along the ground, making an ideal ground cover. However, the plant is also a climber, thanks to its aerial rootlets. If the plant is left unchecked, it can climb up to 80 feet high.

English ivy is also very tolerant of different growing conditions, making it a low-maintenance plant that can thrive even in less than ideal circumstances.

Fishbone Cactus

Scientific Name: Disocactus anguliger

• Plant Type: Cactus
• Geographic Origin: North America
• Size: 6in tall
• Sun Exposure: Partial
• Zone: 10a-12b

The fishbone cactus (sometimes called the plume cactus) is a type of succulent that originates from Mexico. It gets its name from its long, spiky leaves that resemble the bones of a fish. The fishbone cactus is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It can be grown in a pot or the ground, and it does not require much water.

The fishbone cactus is an evergreen plant, meaning it will keep its leaves all year round. In the summer, the plant produces small white flowers.

Golden Pothos

Scientific Name: Epipremnum aureum

• Plant Type: Vine
• Geographic Origin: South Pacific
• Size: 20-40ft long
• Sun Exposure: Full sun, partial shade
• Zone: 10-12

The Golden Pothos is a hardy and versatile plant that can thrive in a wide range of conditions. Also known as the ” Devil’s Ivy,” it is native to tropical regions of the South Pacific. The Golden Pothos is an evergreen vine that can grow up to 20 feet in length.

It has glossy, heart-shaped leaves that are variegated with yellow, white, or green. The Golden Pothos is a low-maintenance plant that does not require much care. It can tolerate low light levels and doesn’t need to be watered very often.

Jade Tree

Scientific Name: Crassula ovata

• Plant Type: Succulent
• Geographic Origin: South Africa
• Size: 3-6ft tall
• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Zone: 11-12

The jade plant is a popular choice for indoor gardens, thanks to its low maintenance requirements and enduring foliage. Native to arid regions of Africa and Asia, the jade plant is well-suited to hot, dry climates. It prefers bright light but can tolerate partial shade, and once established, it is quite drought tolerant.

The jade plant can grow quite large, reaching up to six feet in height, with a trunk-like stem and glossy green leaves. In its native habitat, the jade plant grows in rocky soil and is often found clinging to cliffsides. While it is not exactly a cliffhanger in the indoor garden, the jade plant does require well-draining soil and should be protected from overwatering.

Kalanchoe

Scientific Name: K. blossfeldiana

• Plant Type: Perennial, succulent
• Geographic Origin: Madagascar
• Size: 6-18in tall
• Sun Exposure: Full sun, partial shade
• Zone: 10-12

The Kalanchoe blossfeldiana is a beautiful plant that originates from Madagascar. Also known as the Christmas Kalanchoe, this plant is prized for its vibrant flowers that bloom in the winter months. Although the Kalanchoe blossfeldiana is relatively low maintenance, there are a few things to keep in mind to keep your plant healthy and happy.

First, be sure to water the plant regularly and allow the soil to dry out between watering. Secondly, provide bright indirect light for the plant, as too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to scorch. Lastly, fertilize monthly during the spring and summer months using a balanced fertilizer.

Lucky Bamboo

Scientific Name: Dracaena sanderiana

• Plant Type: Perennial, shrub
• Geographic Origin: Africa
• Size: 1-3ft tall
• Sun Exposure: Partial shade
• Zone: 10-11

The Lucky Bamboo plant is a popular houseplant that is believed to bring good luck and fortune. The plant is native to Africa and is often used in Feng Shui. Lucky Bamboo can be grown in water or soil, and it is easy to care for. The plant does best in bright, indirect sunlight and should be watered regularly.

Marble Queen Pothos

Scientific Name: Epipremnum aureum

• Plant Type: Perennial, vine
• Geographic Origin: Australia
• Size: Up to 10ft long
• Sun Exposure: Partial
• Zone: 11a-12b

The Marble Queen Pothos is a popular houseplant that is known for its distinctive variegated leaves. The leaves are usually a mix of green and white, but they can also have shades of yellow or pink. The plant is relatively easy to care for, and it’s great choice for beginner gardeners. When growing Pothos plants, you won’t need an elaborate maintenance routine.

With proper care, the Marble Queen Pothos can grow to be several feet long. Thanks to its attractive foliage, it is often used as a trailing plant in hanging baskets or as an accent plant in mixed containers.

Moon Cactus

Scientific Name: Gymnocalycium mihanovichii

• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Geographic Origin: South America
• Size: Varies
• Sun Exposure: Partial, shade
• Zone: 11-12

The Moon Cactus is a small, round cactus that is native to South America. It has a bright green body with red or yellow spines, and it produces small, white flowers. Moon cacti are popular houseplants, and they are relatively easy to care for.

They prefer bright, indirect light and well-drained soil. Moon cacti should be watered only when the potting mix is dry to the touch. They are susceptible to root rot, so it is important to not over-water them.

Ox Tongue

Scientific Name: Gasteria spp.

• Plant Type: Perennial, succulent
• Geographic Origin: South Africa
• Size: 4-24in tall
• Sun Exposure: Full, partial
• Zone: 9-11

The Ox Tongue plant is a hardy, drought-tolerant succulent that originates from South Africa. It gets its name from its long, thick leaves which resemble the tongue of an ox. The plant grows best in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. It is an easy plant to care for and does not require much watering.

In the wild, Ox Tongue can be found growing in open fields, forests, and along roadsides. The Ox Tongue plant is a popular ornamental plant, and it is often used as a ground cover or as a border plant in gardens.

Peace Lily

Scientific Name: Spathiphyllum spp.

• Plant Type: Flowering tropical plant
• Geographic Origin: Central America and Asia
• Size: 1-3ft tall
• Sun Exposure: Partial shade
• Zone: 11-12

The Peace Lily is a beautiful plant that is also easy to care for, making it a popular choice for both homes and offices. Native to tropical regions of Asia, the Peace Lily is not a lily at all, but a member of the Araceae family. This popular houseplant gets its name from its white flowers, which bloom in the shape of a calla lily.

Peace Lilies are known for their ability to thrive in low-light conditions and their ability to purify the air of harmful toxins. In addition, these plants are relatively drought-tolerant, meaning that they don’t require a lot of watering.

Peperomia

Scientific Name: Peperomia spp.

• Plant Type: Perennial, epiphyte
• Geographic Origin: Caribbean, Central, and South America
• Size: 6-12in tall
• Sun Exposure: Full, partial
• Zone: 10-12

The Peperomia is a diverse genus of tropical plants, many of which are popular houseplants. These plants are native to Central and South America, and they vary widely in size, shape, and color. Most Peperomias have fleshy, glossy leaves, and while most of these plants are generally sessile, some do produce flowers or fruits.

Peperomias are relatively easy to care for, making them ideal for beginning gardeners. They prefer bright, indirect light and moist soil, but they will tolerate some shade and occasional drought. One of the most popular cultivars, the peperomia frost is an excellent choice.

Ponytail Palm

Scientific Name: Beaucarnea recurvata

• Plant Type: Broadleaf evergreen shrub/tree
• Geographic Origin: Mexico
• Size: 6-8ft tall
• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Zone: 10-11

The ponytail palm is a unique-looking plant that’s native to Mexico. It gets its name from its long, thin leaves that resemble a ponytail. The plant is also known as the bottle palm because its thick trunk can store water. The ponytail palm is a slow-growing plant, but it can reach up to 20 feet tall.

It’s a popular houseplant because it’s easy to care for and tolerates low light and drought conditions. Ponytail palms are also one of the few houseplants that produce flowers. The flowers are small and white and bloom in the springtime.

Rubber Plant

Scientific Name: Ficus elastica

• Plant Type: Evergreen tree
• Geographic Origin: Brazil
• Size: 50-100ft tall when grown outdoors
• Sun Exposure: Partial shade, indirect light
• Zone: 10-12

The rubber plant can grow quickly when given proper care, making it a popular choice for indoor gardens. The plant is native to tropical areas in Southeast Asia and has oversized, richly green, rounded leaves.

When growing a rubber plant indoors, it’s important to give it indirect light, partial shade, and well-draining soil. The rubber plant is also known for being drought-tolerant, so you don’t need to worry about watering it too often.

Snake Plant

Scientific Name: Dracaena trifasciata

• Plant Type: Evergreen, perennial
• Geographic Origin: West Africa
• Size: 6in-8ft tall
• Sun Exposure: Shade to partial sun
• Zone: 9-11

The snake plant, also known as the mother-in-law’s tongue, is a popular houseplant that is known for its easy care. It is a succulent, meaning it stores water in its leaves, and it is native to Africa. The snake plant is an ideal houseplant because it is very tolerant of neglect. Plus, It can go weeks without water and can withstand low light levels.

However, it is important to note that the snake plant can be poisonous if ingested, so it should be kept out of reach of children and pets. Despite its tough exterior, the snake plant is relatively fragile and should be handled with care.

Spider Plant

Scientific Name: Chlorophytum comosum

• Plant Type: Herbaceous, perennial
• Geographic Origin: Central and Southern Africa
• Size: 1-2ft tall
• Sun Exposure: Partial, shade
• Zone: 9-11

The spider plant is a popular houseplant that is easy to care for and tolerant of a wide range of growing conditions. Native to Africa, the spider plant gets its name from its long, slender leaves, which are often variegated with white or yellow stripes. Spider plants are easy to propagate; simply remove a leaf from the plant and pot it in moist soil. The leaf will quickly develop roots and form a new plant.

Spider plants are also known for their ability to filter out pollutants from the air, making them an ideal choice for indoor spaces. With its easy care requirements and ability to improve air quality, it’s no wonder the spider plant is such a popular choice for homes and offices.

Tillandsia

Scientific Name: Tillandsia

• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Geographic Origin: Mexico
• Size: Up to 18in tall
• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light
• Zone: 7-8

The Tillandsia is a popular type of air plant, a plant that grows without the need for soil. Instead, they get the nutrients they need from the air and water. Due to their unique growing requirements, air plants are very low-maintenance and easy to care for. In tropical environments, these plants are commonly seen growing on trees.

They are also very versatile and can be displayed in a wide variety of ways. Whether you want to create a whimsical terrarium or simply want to add a splash of greenery to your home, air plants are a great option.

Umbrella Tree

Scientific Name: Schefflera

• Plant Type: Broadleaf evergreen
• Geographic Origin: Taiwan
• Size: 3-6ft tall when grown indoors
• Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light
• Zone: 10-12

The umbrella tree plant is a popular choice for gardens and yards because it is low maintenance. It is also known as the Chinese parasol tree, Japanese umbrella tree, or octopus tree. This plant is native to East Asia and can grow up to 20 feet tall. It has large, dark green leaves that are arranged in a rosette pattern. The leaves are deeply lobed and can be up to 12 inches long.

The umbrella tree plant produces small white flowers that bloom in the summer. These flowers are followed by small, black fruits that are about the size of a pea. The fruits are edible but have a sour taste. The umbrella tree plant is easy to care for and does not require much fertilizer or pesticide and it is tolerant of drought.

Zebra Plant

Scientific Name: Haworthia

• Plant Type: Succulent, perennial
• Geographic Origin: Africa
• Size: 3-5in tall
• Sun Exposure: Full, partial
• Zone: 9-11

The Zebra plant is a beautiful, low-maintenance houseplant that is native to Africa. Its scientific name is Aphelandra squarrosa, and it is part of the acanthus family. The Zebra plant gets its common name from its striking leaves, which are adorned with bold white stripes. These striking leaves are what make the Zebra plant such a popular houseplant.

In addition to being visually appealing, the Zebra plant is also easy to care for. It prefers bright, indirect light and regular watering. When it comes to fertilizer, the Zebra plant is relatively low-maintenance and does not need to be fed very often. With proper care, the Zebra plant can thrive indoors for many years.