7 Houseplants You Can Neglect

If you love the idea of having houseplants but struggle to keep them alive, this guide is for you. Some plants require very little attention, but they still thrive. Here are seven of the easiest-to-grow and hardest-to-kill houseplants that even the most neglectful plant owner can manage!

And if you are a homeschool family, these are great plants to start teaching your children about growing plants! Even the little ones can start learning to take care of something, take on a little bit of responsibility, and they (probably) won’t kill them!

1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)

The snake plant, also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, is renowned for its resilience. This hardy plant can survive low light levels and infrequent watering. Its striking, sword-like leaves are not only visually appealing but also excellent at filtering indoor air.

Snake plants thrive on neglect; they prefer to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is one of the few ways to harm this plant. They can tolerate a wide range of lighting conditions, from bright, indirect light to low light, making them perfect for any room in the house.

2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

The ZZ plant, with its glossy, dark green leaves, is nearly indestructible. It requires very little water and can survive in low light conditions. ZZ plants are drought-tolerant due to their rhizomes, which store water.

You can forget to water this plant for weeks, and it will still look lush and healthy. They are also pest-resistant, adding to their low-maintenance appeal. Whether you place it in a dim corner or a brightly lit space, the ZZ plant will adapt and continue to grow.

3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

Pothos, also known as devil’s ivy, is incredibly forgiving. It thrives in a variety of lighting conditions, from low to bright indirect light. This vining plant is easy to propagate, making it a popular choice for beginners.

Pothos can withstand neglect, such as irregular watering and poor light. Its heart-shaped leaves come in several varieties, each with unique patterns and colors. Whether you hang it in a basket or let it trail down a shelf, pothos adds a touch of greenery with minimal effort.

4. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

Spider plants are classic houseplants known for their easy care and air-purifying qualities. They thrive in bright, indirect light but can also adapt to lower light conditions. Spider plants produce “pups” or baby plants that can be easily propagated.

They prefer to dry out between waterings, making them ideal for those who might forget their watering schedule. This plant’s arching leaves and occasional white flowers add a lively touch to any room. Its tolerance for a variety of conditions makes it a perfect choice for beginners.

5. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

The peace lily is elegant and one of the easiest plants to care for. It can tolerate low light conditions and sporadic watering. The plant’s lush, dark green leaves and occasional white blooms make it a beautiful addition to any home.

Peace lilies also help improve indoor air quality by removing toxins. They signal their need for water by drooping, making knowing when to water them easy. However, they quickly bounce back after watering. Just keep them out of direct sunlight to avoid scorching their leaves.

6. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)

True to its name, the cast iron plant is incredibly tough. It can thrive in low light and is very drought-tolerant. This plant is perfect for those who might forget to water their plants for extended periods. The cast iron plant’s dark green, strap-like leaves are slow-growing but can withstand a variety of conditions. It tolerates neglect and low humidity, making it ideal for less-than-ideal indoor environments. Whether placed in a shady corner or near a window, this plant remains unfazed.

7. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller)

Aloe vera is not only a hardy plant but also has medicinal properties. This succulent prefers bright, indirect light and infrequent watering. Its thick, fleshy leaves store water, allowing it to survive periods of drought.

Overwatering can harm aloe vera, so it’s best to let the soil dry out completely between waterings. The gel inside its leaves can be used to soothe minor burns and skin irritations. Aloe vera’s low maintenance and practical benefits make it a popular choice for busy or forgetful plant owners.

In summary, these seven houseplants are perfect for anyone who loves greenery but lacks a green thumb. They thrive on neglect, requiring minimal care while still adding beauty and improving air quality in your home. By choosing these resilient plants, you can enjoy the benefits of indoor gardening without the stress of constant maintenance.