15 Easy-Care Plants for Beginners
Welcome to the wonderful world of plants! Whether you're looking to bring a touch of nature into your home, create a cozy and calming space, or simply add some greenery to your décor, houseplants are a perfect choice. But where do you start? Don't worry, we've got you covered! Here are 15 easy-care plants for beginners, ranked from least popular to most popular.
15. Braided Money Tree
Braided Money Tree, Medium
Starting off our countdown is the Braided Money Tree, a symbol of good luck and prosperity. With its distinctive braided trunk and vibrant green leaves, this resilient plant requires minimal attention. Perfect for those who tend to be a bit forgetful about watering, the Braided Money Tree thrives in low light conditions and can go for longer periods between drinks.
Common Name(s): Braided Money Tree, Money Plant
Botanical Name: Pachira aquatica
Light Requirements: Bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade.
Watering: Allow the soil to dry between waterings, water sparingly.
Temperature and Humidity: Average room temperatures, can tolerate low humidity.
Soil and Potting: Well-draining soil in a pot with good drainage.
Fertilization: Feed with diluted fertilizer during the growing season.
Pet-Safe: No
14. Mini Monstera
Mini Monstera, Medium
Next up is the Mini Monstera, a petite version of its larger counterpart, the Monstera Deliciosa. With its unique split leaves, this plant is not just visually appealing but also low-maintenance. Ideal for smaller spaces and beginner plant parents, the Mini Monstera adds a touch of tropical charm without demanding too much time or effort.
Common Name(s): Mini Monstera, Ginny Philodendron, Philodendron Piccolo
Botanical Name: Philodendron 'Ginny'
Light Requirements: Bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade.
Watering: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, do not overwater.
Temperature and Humidity: Average room temperatures, can tolerate low humidity.
Soil and Potting: Well-draining soil in a pot with good drainage.
Fertilization: Feed with diluted fertilizer during the growing season.
Pet-Safe: No
13. Peperomia
Watermelon Peperomia, Medium
Coming in at number 13 is the Peperomia, a charming plant species with a variety of leaf shapes and colors. Whether it's the Watermelon Peperomia, Baby Rubber Plant or the Raindrop Peperomia, these plants are compact, adaptable, and require minimal fuss. Perfect for those tight on space or looking to add a splash of diversity to their growing plant collection.
Common Name(s): Radiator Plant, Baby Rubber Plant, Watermelon Peperomia
Botanical Name: Peperomia spp.
Light Requirements: Bright, indirect sunlight.
Watering: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, do not overwater.
Temperature and Humidity: Average room temperatures, can tolerate low humidity.
Soil and Potting: Well-draining soil in a pot with good drainage.
Fertilization: Feed with diluted fertilizer during the growing season.
Pet-Safe: Yes!
12. Dragon Tree (Dracaena)
Bicolor Dragon Tree
Dracaena takes the 12th spot on our list, offering a diverse range of options for beginners. From the spiky Dracaena Marginata to the bushy Dracaena Janet Craig, these hardy plants are known for their air-purifying qualities. They can handle a bit of neglect and are perfect for those who are still finding their rhythm in the world of plant care.
Common Name(s): Dracaena, Dragon Tree
Botanical Name: Dracaena spp.
Light Requirements: Bright, indirect sunlight.
Watering: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, do not overwater.
Temperature and Humidity: Average room temperatures, can tolerate low humidity.
Soil and Potting: Well-draining soil in a pot with good drainage.
Fertilization: Feed with diluted fertilizer during the growing season.
Pet-Safe: No
11. Philodendron Brazil
Philodendron Brazil, Medium
The Philodendron Brazil, a vibrant and variegated beauty that's as easygoing as it is stylish. This plant is a breeze to care for and can adapt to various light conditions. Its heart-shaped leaves and trailing vines make it a popular choice among those who want a touch of the rainforest in their living space.
Common Name(s): Philodendron Brazil, Heart-leaf Philodendron
Botanical Name: Philodendron hederaceum var. Brasil
Light Requirements: Bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade.
Watering: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, do not overwater.
Temperature and Humidity: Average room temperatures, can tolerate low humidity.
Soil and Potting: Well-draining soil in a pot with good drainage.
Fertilization: Feed with diluted fertilizer during the growing season.
Pet-Safe: No
10. String of Hearts
String of Hearts, Medium
Breaking into the top 10 is the String of Hearts, a trailing succulent with delicate heart-shaped leaves. This easy-care beauty is drought-tolerant and forgiving of occasional forgetfulness. Hang it in a cute planter or let it cascade from a shelf for an effortlessly chic addition to your plant family.
Common Name(s): String of Hearts, Ceropegia woodii
Botanical Name: Ceropegia woodii
Light Requirements: Bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade.
Watering: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, do not overwater.
Temperature and Humidity: Average room temperatures, can tolerate low humidity.
Soil and Potting: Well-draining soil in a hanging pot with good drainage.
Fertilization: Feed with diluted fertilizer during the growing season.
Pet-Safe: No
9. String of Pearls
String of Pearls, Medium
Similar in care to the String of Hearts, the String of Pearls secures the ninth position on our list. With its unique bead-like foliage, this plant is a conversation starter. Perfect for the trendy and busy plant enthusiast, it adds a touch of whimsy to any space while requiring minimal effort.
Common Name(s): String of Pearls, Senecio rowleyanus
Botanical Name: Senecio rowleyanus
Light Requirements: Bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade.
Watering: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, do not overwater.
Temperature and Humidity: Average room temperatures, can tolerate low humidity.
Soil and Potting: Well-draining soil in a hanging pot with good drainage.
Fertilization: Feed with diluted fertilizer during the growing season.
Pet-Safe: No
8. Rubber Tree
Rubber Tree, Medium
Known for its broad, glossy leaves, the Rubber Tree makes its entrance at number 8. Resilient and adaptable, this plant thrives in moderate light and is forgiving when it comes to watering. It's an excellent choice for those looking to make a bold statement in their space without the added stress of high-maintenance care.
Common Name(s): Rubber Tree, Ficus elastica
Botanical Name: Ficus elastica
Light Requirements: Bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade.
Watering: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, do not overwater.
Temperature and Humidity: Standard room temperatures and can acclimate to low humidity.
Soil and Potting: Well-draining soil in a pot with good drainage.
Fertilization: Feed with diluted fertilizer during the growing season.
Pet-Safe: No
7. Chinese Money Plant
Chinese Money Plant, Medium
Lucky number seven goes to the Chinese Money Plant, also known as Pilea Peperomioides. With its pancake-shaped leaves and compact size, this plant is not only easy to care for but also considered a symbol of good fortune. Perfect for the superstitious or anyone looking to invite positive energy into their homes.
Common Name(s): Chinese Money Plant, Pancake Plant, Missionary Plant
Botanical Name: Pilea peperomioides
Light Requirements: Bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade.
Watering: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, do not overwater.
Temperature and Humidity: Average room temperatures, can tolerate low humidity.
Soil and Potting: Well-draining soil in a pot with good drainage.
Fertilization: Feed with diluted fertilizer during the growing season.
Pet-Safe: Yes!
6. Swiss Cheese Vine
Swiss Cheese Vine, Medium
Halfway through our countdown is the Monstera Adansonii, a smaller cousin to the iconic Swiss Cheese Plant. With its unique fenestrated leaves, this plant is a statement piece that requires minimal effort. Perfect for those who want a touch of the jungle without the fuss of a full-sized Monstera.
Common Name(s): Swiss Cheese Vine, Five Holes Plant, Monstera adansonii
Botanical Name: Monstera adansonii
Light Requirements: Bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade.
Watering: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, do not overwater.
Temperature and Humidity: Average room temperatures, high humidity is ideal but not necessary.
Soil and Potting: Well-draining soil in a pot with good drainage.
Fertilization: Feed with diluted fertilizer during the growing season.
Pet-Safe: No
5. Jade Plant
Jade Plant, Medium
Securing the 5th spot is the timeless Jade Plant, also known as the Money Plant or Lucky Plant. Symbolizing prosperity and good fortune, this succulent is not only meaningful but also undemanding. With its fleshy, green leaves, the Jade Plant thrives on minimal attention, making it an ideal companion for those navigating the world of plant care.
Common Name(s): Jade Plant, Crassula ovata, Money Plant, Lucky Plant
Botanical Name: Crassula ovata
Light Requirements: Bright, direct sunlight.
Watering: Water when the soil is dry, do not overwater.
Temperature and Humidity: Warm temperatures, low humidity.
Soil and Potting: Well-draining cactus mix in a pot with good drainage.
Fertilization: Fertilize only during the growing season, once or twice a month.
Pet-Safe: No
4. Spider Plant
Spider Plant 'Bonnie,' Medium
Spider plants secure the fourth position with their arching leaves and spiderette offshoots. Known for their air-purifying qualities, these resilient plants thrive in various light conditions and can withstand occasional neglect. Hang them in a basket or let them spill over a pot for a playful and carefree addition to your plant family.
Common Name(s): Spider Plant, Airplane Plant, Ribbon Plant
Botanical Name: Chlorophytum comosum
Light Requirements: Bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade.
Watering: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, do not overwater.
Temperature and Humidity: Average room temperatures, can tolerate low humidity.
Soil and Potting: Well-draining soil in a pot with good drainage.
Fertilization: Feed with diluted fertilizer during the growing season.
Pet-Safe: Yes!
3. Pothos
Golden Pothos, Medium
Taking the bronze medal is the ever-popular Pothos. With its cascading vines and heart-shaped leaves, Pothos is a staple for any beginner's plant collection. Tolerant of low light and erratic watering schedules, it's an excellent choice for those who are just starting to dip their toes into the world of indoor gardening.
Common Name(s): Devil’s Ivy, Money Plant, Golden Pothos, Marble Queen Pothos, Jade Pothos
Botanical Name: Epipremnum aureum
Light Requirements: Bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade.
Watering: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, do not overwater.
Temperature and Humidity: Standard room temperatures and low humidity.
Soil and Potting: Well-draining soil in a pot with good drainage.
Fertilization: Feed with diluted fertilizer during the growing season.
Pet-Safe: No, can be toxic to pets.
2. Snake Plant
Snake Plant 'Zeylanica,' Medium
The runner-up in our countdown is the Snake Plant, also known as Mother-in-Law's Tongue. Renowned for its ability to thrive in low light and withstand neglect, this plant is virtually indestructible. With its sleek, upright leaves, the Snake Plant adds a touch of modern sophistication to any space, making it a must-have for beginners.
Common Name(s): Snake Plant, Mother-in-Law’s Tongue
Botanical Name: Sansevieria spp.
Light Requirements: Bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade.
Watering: Water when the soil is dry, do not overwater.
Temperature and Humidity: Standard room temperatures and low humidity.
Soil and Potting: Well-draining soil in a pot with good drainage.
Fertilization: Fertilize only during the growing season, every 6 to 8 weeks.
Pet-Safe: No, can be toxic to pets.
1. ZZ Plant
ZZ Plant, Medium
And the crown for the easiest and most low-maintenance plant for beginners goes to the ZZ Plant. With its shiny, dark green leaves and ability to tolerate low light and infrequent watering, the ZZ Plant is the undisputed champion for those just starting their plant journey. It's practically indestructible, making it the perfect green companion for busy young individuals seeking a touch of nature in their lives.
Common Name(s): ZZ Plant, Zanzibar Gem
Botanical Name: Zamioculcas zamiifolia
Light Requirements: Low to bright, indirect sunlight.
Watering: Water when the soil is dry, do not overwater.
Temperature and Humidity: Standard room temperatures and low humidity.
Soil and Potting: Well-draining soil in a pot with good drainage.
Fertilization: Feed with diluted fertilizer during the growing season.
Pet-Safe: No, can be toxic to pets.
These plants are great options for beginners because they all have relatively low requirements for light, water, and humidity. They are also forgiving of occasional neglect and are generally easy to maintain. Not only do they look beautiful, but they can also help improve air quality and provide numerous mental health benefits. So go ahead, pick a plant that speaks to you and start your plant-parent journey!
