If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably admired a stunning indoor jungle on Pinterest and thought, That could never be me—I can’t even keep a succulent alive. But the truth is: not all indoor plants are divas. Some are surprisingly low-maintenance and practically thrive on a little bit of neglect.
Whether you’re moving into your first apartment, giving your space a refresh, or just want something green that won’t die the second you look at it wrong, this list is for you. I’ve rounded up the best indoor plants that are gorgeous, low-effort, and nearly impossible to kill. Think of it as your plant starter pack for a cozy, lived-in space that still feels alive and pulled together.
Each plant on this list comes with the basics: what kind of light it needs, how often to water it, and a little note on what makes it special. That way, you can pick the ones that fit your lifestyle (and your vibe). From trailing pothos to sculptural snake plants, let’s find your new green bestie.
1. Snake Plant
If you’re looking for the ultimate no-fuss houseplant, the snake plant is your go-to. With tall, upright leaves in bold green and yellow stripes, it adds structure and drama to any room. It’s practically a superhero when it comes to air purification too.
Light Requirements: Thrives in bright, indirect light but handles low light like a champ.
Watering Needs: Let the soil dry out completely between waterings, overwatering is its kryptonite.
Note: Extremely beginner-friendly and nearly indestructible. A great choice if you forget your plants exist sometimes.
2. Pothos
Trailing vines with heart-shaped leaves that come in a range of variegations, pothos is a visual delight. It’s one of the easiest plants to grow, and it looks amazing on shelves or hanging in baskets.
Light Requirements: Happy in low to bright, indirect light. Avoid harsh sun; it can scorch those pretty leaves.
Watering Needs: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. It’ll forgive you if you forget once in a while.
Note: Grows fast and propagates like a dream. Snip a vine, pop it in water, and you’ve got a new plant baby.
3. Philodendron
This plant is the cozy sweater of indoor greenery; soft, comforting and always in style. Its heart-shaped leaves and graceful vines make it a classic. Plus, it adapts well to different home conditions.
Light Requirements: Prefers medium to bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light.
Watering Needs: Allow the top layer of soil to dry out before watering. Less is more.
Note: Great for shelf styling or training around a trellis. Keep it out of reach of pets, it’s not pet-safe.
4. ZZ Plant
Shiny, waxy leaves and a sculptural form make the ZZ plant a modern decor dream. It’s sleek, it’s stylish and thrives on neglect.
Light Requirements: This plant is built for low-to-medium light conditions.
Watering Needs: Water only when the soil is bone dry, about every 2–3 weeks.
Note: Tolerates almost everything, including low humidity and forgetful plant parents.
5. Fiddle Leaf Fig Tree
Instagram’s favorite plant, the fiddle leaf fig is the diva of houseplants. When it’s happy, it’s a total showstopper with giant violin-shaped leaves.
Light Requirements: Lots of bright, indirect light. South or east-facing windows are best.
Watering Needs: Water when top soil is dry, about once a week.
Note: Can be finicky, don’t overwater and rotate it weekly for even growth.
6. Aloe Vera
More than just a pretty face, aloe vera is the self-care queen of the plant world. Its gel can soothe burns and its sculptural shape looks fabulous in any setup.
Light Requirements: Bright, direct sunlight.
Watering Needs: Water deeply but infrequently. Let the soil completely dry out.
Note: Break off a leaf and use the gel for skin care emergencies!
7. Parlor Palm
This palm has been popular since Victorian times and it still slays today. The parlor palm is lush, graceful and perfect for low-light spaces.
Light Requirements: Low to medium light. Doesn’t need much.
Watering Needs: Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
Note: One of the best plants for air purification with low maintenance.
8. Chinese Evergreen
Chinese evergreen is the chill friend of the plant world; gorgeous, laid-back and great with beginners. Its patterned leaves look like hand-painted foliage.
Light Requirements: Low to medium light, but variegated types prefer brighter spots.
Watering Needs: Water when the top couple of inches feel dry.
Note: Excellent choice for offices and low-light rooms.
9. Alocasia
With its dramatic leaves shaped like arrows or elephant ears, alocasia is here to serve looks. It’s a bit more high-maintenance, but so worth it.
Light Requirements: Bright, indirect light. Avoid harsh sun.
Watering Needs: Keep soil moist but not soggy. It loves humidity.
Note: Needs a little more attention, don’t let it sit in cold drafts.
10. Fern
Ferns bring soft, feathery texture to your space and create a lush forest vibe. They’re perfect for adding a cozy, natural feel.
Light Requirements: Medium to bright indirect light with high humidity.
Watering Needs: Keep soil moist, never let it dry out completely.
Note: Great for humid spaces. Keep away from dry air or heat vents.
11. Yucca Cane
A desert plant with a bold silhouette, the yucca cane is striking and super low maintenance. Great for that breezy, California-cool vibe.
Light Requirements: Bright, indirect to direct light.
Watering Needs: Water when the soil is completely dry.
Note: Don’t overwater, root rot is its downfall.
12. Calathea
Calatheas are basically living artwork. Their patterned leaves come in all kinds of colors, and they move gently throughout the day, responding to light.
Light Requirements: Low to medium, indirect light.
Watering Needs: Keep soil lightly moist, and up the humidity.
Note: Can be picky with water, prefers distilled and steady moisture.
13. Succulent/Cacti
Tiny but mighty, succulents and cacti are perfect for those who want cute plants with minimal fuss. There are endless shapes, sizes, and colors to choose from.
Light Requirements: Bright, direct sunlight.
Watering Needs: Water sparingly, only when soil is dry.
Note: Perfect for sunny windowsills and plant newbies.
14. Anthurium
Anthuriums are the glam queens of indoor plants. With glossy heart-shaped leaves and striking red (or pink!) blooms, they add instant elegance and a pop of color to any room.
Light Requirements: Bright, indirect light. Too much sun can scorch the leaves.
Watering Needs: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Keep it evenly moist, but never soggy.
Note: Loves humidity and does best in a warm, cozy corner. Bonus: It blooms all year round if it’s happy!
15. Cast Iron Plant
True to its name, the cast iron plant is tough as nails. It’s a leafy legend that thrives on neglect, making it ideal for low-maintenance homes. Its deep green, glossy leaves bring a rich, calming vibe to any corner.
Light Requirements: Low to moderate indirect light.
Watering Needs: Water when the soil is dry about 1–2 inches down
Note: Thrives on neglect, perfect for dark corners and forgetful owners.
16. Peace Lily
A stunning plant with elegant white blooms, the peace lily is as graceful as it is easygoing. It purifies air and brings a gentle beauty into your space.
Light Requirements: Low to bright indirect light. Avoid direct sun.
Watering Needs: Keep the soil consistently moist, but don’t let it get soggy.
Note: Its leaves will droop dramatically when thirsty, very communicative!
17. Spider Plant
The spider plant is a retro classic making a huge comeback and for good reason. It grows fast, looks adorable in hanging baskets and sprouts baby plants like a proud plant parent.
Light Requirements: Bright, indirect light. Will tolerate lower light.
Watering Needs: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Note: Produces baby plantlets that you can re-pot or share with friends.
18. Dracaena
Dracaena is the edgy, modern plant with sword-like leaves that brings bold vibes to any room. It’s super adaptable and looks amazing with contemporary decor.
Light Requirements: Medium to bright indirect light.
Watering Needs: Let the top 2–3 inches of soil dry before watering.
Note: Sensitive to fluoride in tap water, use distilled or filtered if possible.
19. Monstera
Known as the Swiss cheese plant, Monstera is loved for its dramatic split leaves and bold jungle vibes. It instantly gives any room a trendy, tropical feel.
Light Requirements: Bright, indirect light. Loves some morning sun.
Watering Needs: Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry.
Note: Gets huge over time, support it with a moss pole or stake.
20. Hibiscus
If you’re into vibrant blooms and a bit of flair, hibiscus is your girl. While a little more tropical than others on this list, it can thrive indoors with the right care and rewards you with stunning flowers.
Light Requirements: Bright, direct light for best blooms.
Watering Needs: Likes consistently moist soil. Don’t let it dry out too long.
Note: A bit more demanding, but if you love blooms, it’s worth the effort.
21. Prayer Plant
The prayer plant isn’t just pretty, it’s mesmerizing. Its leaves fold up at night, like hands in prayer, and its vibrant patterns are like living art.
Light Requirements: Low to medium indirect light.
Watering Needs: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, keep humidity high.
Note: Loves humidity. Great for bathrooms or grouped with other plants.
22. Money Tree
With braided trunks and lush leaves, the money tree is said to bring good fortune and at the very least, it brings good vibes to your space.
Light Requirements: Bright, indirect light. Can handle some lower light.
Watering Needs: Water every 1–2 weeks, letting the soil dry between waterings.
Note: Avoid moving it around too much, it likes consistency.
23. Rubber Plant
The rubber plant is bold, sculptural, and stunning. Its large, glossy leaves make a statement and add instant polish to your interiors.
Light Requirements: Bright, filtered light.
Watering Needs: Let the top few inches dry out completely between waterings.
Note: Wipe its leaves occasionally to keep them glossy and dust-free.