12 Low Maintenance Indoor Plants

Sick of killing all your plants? Is green witchery not your thing? Don’t worry – plants are like pets, and they need a lot of attention and care! If you’re someone who struggles with their green thumb and can’t seem to care for plants, you’ve found the right blog resource!

Plants can do SO much for a space. Bringing a little greenery indoors always livens up the energy, and you need that dose of Mother Nature inside to make a house a home! Certain indoor plants can also do wonders for air quality, like some snake plants, for example, that purify the air.

But if you don’t know where to start, incorporating the right plants for you in the home can be a challenge. From not finding enough natural light indoors for plants, to the right size pot and choosing the right soil, there are a few things to consider to ensure your indoor plants thrive.

The US is so diverse, and with growing regions of course some things grow better in different zones than others, so today we’re going to stick to indoor plants. BUT keep an eye out for that full deep dive, that could be a fun resource?!

12 Plants Even the Worst Green Thumbs can Keep Alive!

This blog breaks things down so almost ANY home gardener should be able to care for these plants and keep them alive. Read through these 12 plants that are nearly impossible to kill. All needing low light, little water, and can still thrive happily. Find some extra tips at the end about working on that green thumb!

1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)

The snake plant is a hardy option that can survive in low light and requires infrequent watering. Its upright, sword-like leaves not only add a modern aesthetic to any room but also help purify indoor air by removing toxins. This plant is ideal for beginners and can tolerate a wide range of indoor conditions, making it a versatile addition to any home.

Soil: Well-draining potting mix, like a cactus or succulent mix.
Pot Size: Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the root ball.

2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

The ZZ plant is incredibly tolerant of low light and can go long periods without water. Its waxy, dark green leaves give it a glossy appearance, making it an attractive choice for any room. Known for its ability to thrive on neglect, the ZZ plant is perfect for busy individuals who might forget to water their plants regularly.

Soil: Well-draining potting mix, like a cactus or succulent mix.
Pot Size: A pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the root ball is ideal.

3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

Pothos is an easy-to-care-for plant that can grow in low light and requires minimal watering. There are lots of different types of Pothos, most are really easy to manage. Its trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves, which can be variegated with shades of green, yellow, or white, add a vibrant touch to any indoor space. Pothos are excellent at filtering indoor air pollutants, contributing to a healthier living environment.

Soil: Regular potting mix with good drainage.
Pot Size: A pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the root ball is suitable.

4. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

The spider plant thrives in low light and only needs occasional watering. Its arching leaves and small white flowers add a touch of elegance to any space. Spider plants are pet-friendly and can produce offshoots, or “spiderettes,” that can be propagated into new plants, making them a delightful addition to any home.

Soil: Well-draining potting mix.
Pot Size: A pot that is 2-3 inches larger in diameter than the root ball.

5. Philodendron

Philodendrons are adaptable to low light conditions and require minimal care. With their large, glossy leaves, philodendrons can add a tropical feel to your home. There are many varieties, including climbing and non-climbing types, which can suit different interior design needs, making them a popular choice for plant enthusiasts.

Soil: Regular potting mix with good drainage.
Pot Size: A pot that is 2-3 inches larger in diameter than the root ball.

6. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

Peace lilies thrive in very low light and need moderate watering. Known for their elegant white flowers and dark green leaves, peace lilies are also effective at improving indoor air quality. They are a symbol of peace and tranquility, often used in offices and homes for their calming presence.

Soil: Regular potting mix with good drainage.
Pot Size: A pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the root ball.

7. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)

The cast iron plant is extremely durable, thrives in low natural light, and requires very little maintenance. This plant gets its name from its tough, resilient nature, making it almost indestructible. Its broad, arching leaves are perfect for adding greenery to dimly lit areas, making it an ideal choice for those who want a no-fuss plant.

Soil: Well-draining potting mix.
Pot Size: A pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the root ball.

8. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)

Chinese evergreens tolerate low light and need infrequent watering. This plant features striking, variegated leaves in various shades of green, silver, and sometimes red. Known for its air-purifying qualities and ability to adapt to almost any indoor environment, the Chinese evergreen is a versatile and attractive addition to any space.

Soil: Well-draining potting mix.
Pot Size: A pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the root ball.

9. Dracaena

Dracaenas are suitable for low light conditions and require minimal watering. These plants come in various shapes and sizes, with some having thin, strap-like leaves and others broader leaves. Known for their architectural form, dracaenas are often used as focal points in interior design, adding a touch of sophistication to any room.

Soil: Well-draining potting mix.
Pot Size: A pot that is 2-3 inches larger in diameter than the root ball.

10. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)

The parlor palm grows well in low light and needs minimal care and watering. This compact palm is perfect for small spaces and adds a touch of elegance with its feathery fronds. The parlor palm is one of the few palms that thrive in low light conditions, making it a popular houseplant for adding a tropical vibe to your indoor environment.

Soil: Well-draining potting mix.
Pot Size: A pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the root ball.

11. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

Boston ferns thrive in indirect light and high humidity but can tolerate lower light levels. Known for their lush, arching fronds, Boston ferns can add a soft, graceful touch to any room. They are also excellent air purifiers and can actually help maintain humidity levels in your home.

Soil: Peat-based potting mix with good drainage.
Pot Size: A pot that is 2-3 inches larger in diameter than the root ball.

12. Rex Begonia (Begonia rex)

Rex begonias grow well in moderate to low light and need consistent moisture. These plants are prized for their vibrant, colorful leaves, which can feature patterns in shades of red, purple, silver, and green. Rex begonias add a pop of color to any indoor space and are relatively easy to care for, making them a delightful addition to your plant collection.

Soil: Well-draining, light potting mix.
Pot Size: A pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the root ball.

These twelve indoor plants are perfect for anyone looking to add some greenery to their home or office without the hassle of high maintenance. Whether you’re a busy professional, a beginner plant parent, or simply someone with limited natural light in your living space, these plants are sure to thrive and bring a touch of nature into your life.

3 key Areas to Understanding Plants

If you’re new to caring for plants, or struggle to keep plants alive, these 3 areas are key to understanding your plants and helping them thrive to grow and succeed.

Light

Understand your plant’s light requirements and place it accordingly. Most houseplants thrive in bright, indirect sunlight, but some prefer low light or even direct sun, like the ones mainly mentioned in this blog! A simple way to determine this is by observing the leaves. If they are dark green, they generally prefer low light, while variegated or colorful leaves usually require more light. Make changes, see how your plants react, and keep working until you feel they’re comfortable!

Watering Routine

Overwatering is the most common cause of houseplant death. Instead of following a strict watering schedule, check the soil moisture before watering. You can do this by just sticking your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it feels moist, wait a few more days. Remember that different plants have different watering needs, so always research your specific plant’s requirements. When you get a new plant, lookup and research info on watering habits. Then start slow, see how your plant reacts, and go from there.

Patience

Plants need time to acclimate to their new environment. Don’t panic if your plant doesn’t show immediate growth or starts to drop a few leaves when you bring them home. This is normal and should resolve itself as the plant adjusts. Avoid overreacting by overwatering or over-fertilizing, as this can worsen the situation. Give your plant time to settle in, and soon enough, you’ll see it flourish. Remember, plants are living, breathing things, and working with them is like any relationship. Work to form a relationship with your plants!

There’s of course so much that goes into caring for plants, and we’ve only scratched the surface here! But this is totally enough to help any newbie plant owner feel a little more confident when going to their local nursery or giving some new indoor plants a try.