We’ve put together a list of 18 easy care houseplants that are the perfect companions for beginners and busy people alike. Scroll down to learn more.

1. Chinese Evergreen

Smooth, glossy, sometimes variegated leaves. Tolerates low light. Available in a range of sizes.

2. Lucky Bamboo

This easy-care plant can be grown in soil or water. The bright strappy leaves and upright stems give the plant a modern appearance. Popular in Feng Shui.

3. Pothos

Long, vining stems with glossy heart-shaped leaves. Trim as often as you like. Thrives in low and artificial light settings like an office.

4. Peace Lily

Offers deep green, glossy leaves and pure white flowers. Tolerates low light but blooms and grows denser in medium light. If the plant wilts, water immediately and it will perk up.

5. Bromeliad

Available in a wide variety of vibrant colors with showy flowers and leathery, strap-like leaves. Grows best in low to medium light.

6. ZZ Plant

Rows of dark green, glossy leaves form on upright, fleshy stalks. Thrives in low light conditions and requires little water. Keep away from direct sunlight.

7. Dracaena

Upright plant with thick leaves. Prefers medium light. If it grows too tall, prune it shorter. Don’t worry – it will continue to grow. 

8. Hoya

This vining tropical plant thrives in bright indirect light and high humidity. The star-shaped flowers appear in clusters and offer a sweet fragrance.

9. Monstera

With beautifully split leaves, this easy-care plant tolerates medium light, perfect for home or office.

10. Philodendron

Glossy, heart-shaped leaves trail over the side of the pot. Tolerates low light but thrives in medium light. Trim as needed.

11. Orchid

Add elegance to any room with a phalaenopsis orchid. They are easy to grow and bloom for several weeks at a time.

12. Rubber Plant

This showy plant produces thick oval-like leaves. It requires medium light and minimal care while providing a big statement.

13. Diffendachia

Commonly known as dumb cane, this tropical plant features patterned leaves of green, white and cream. It thrives in high humidity and medium light.

14. Snake Plant

A virtually indestructible houseplant with upright, sword-shaped leaves. Tolerates low light and neglect. Water sparingly to avoid rot.

15. Air Plant

Also known as Tillandsia, air plants are an excellent option for new plant parents. Since they don’t have roots, you’ll need to submerge the plant in a bowl of water and let them soak for about 30 minutes once per week. 

16. Pilea

This popular houseplant is surprisingly easy to care for. Simply offer it bright light and moist, well-draining soil and it will provide plenty of offshoots which you can separate and create more plants. 

17. Spider Plant

Very easy to grow; requires moderate sunlight and slightly moist soil. Works well in hanging baskets and on plant stands.

18. Aloe Vera

This succulent produces thick, fleshy leaves which contain a soothing gel often used to calm sunburns and other skin irritations. It requires bright sunlight and well-drained soil.

Houseplant Care Basics

All houseplants have different needs however keep these general rules of thumb in mind to ensure your plants thrive:

Light

Before you choose a plant, consider where it will live in your house and what type of sun exposure you have in that spot. Think about which direction the window faces; be aware of anything outside that might block or reduce sunlight.

Water

Over-watering is the #1 killer of most houseplants. Water only when needed. It’s simple: Stick your finger about an inch deep into the soil. If it feels moist, don’t water. If it feels dry, water. If you are not sure, check again in a few days. Remove water that drained out of the plant and into the saucer after about 30-45 minutes.

Never mist your foliage. Misting leaves causes fungal issues and disease. The only plants that are okay to mist are ferns and carnivorous plants.

Indoor Temperatures

Houseplants like the same indoor temperatures that we do, but they do not like extremes. Avoid places on or near radiators and appliances that give off heat; they will cause the soil and leaves to dry out. Plants do not like cold drafts either; avoid air conditioning vents and, in winter, doors that open to outside. Lengthy exposure to cold air can harm or kill a houseplant.

Fertilizer

Houseplants should be fertilized as follows:

•  Light feedings starting in March
• Full feedings monthly from April through November
• No feeding needed December through January

Follow the directions on the fertilizer you choose for dosing amounts and instructions.