10 Low-Maintenance Plants That Are Perfect for Beginners

If you’ve ever killed a succulent (been there) or worried you just don’t have the “green thumb gene,” don’t worry. Some plants are basically foolproof and perfect for anyone starting out—or anyone who just doesn’t want to spend all their time fussing over leaves and watering schedules.

These low-maintenance options are here to make your life easier. Whether you forget to water, don’t have a sunny spot, or just want something that looks good without the drama, these plants will keep things green and thriving with minimal effort.

Pothos

Pothos is one of the easiest plants to care for, making it perfect for beginners or anyone with a busy schedule. Its vining nature and variety of leaf colors mean you can find one to match any space, from a modern office to a cozy living room. Plus, it thrives in low-light spots, so it’s a great pick for those darker corners of your home.

Water it once a week, or when the soil feels dry, and let it do its thing. Its vines can grow up to 12 feet long, creating a lush, cascading look.

String of Pearls

The string of pearls is a showstopper with its trailing strands of bead-like leaves. This succulent looks stunning in a hanging pot, adding a touch of whimsy and charm to your space. It’s a low-maintenance option that does well in a range of lighting, from low to bright spots, making it a flexible choice for any home.

Water it only when the soil feels completely dry—overwatering is the quickest way to harm this beauty. Its vines can grow up to three feet, creating a cascading effect that’s perfect for shelves, windows, or even as a conversation-starting centerpiece.

String of Hearts

The string of hearts is a dream for anyone wanting a low-maintenance plant that also looks stunning. Its delicate, trailing stems can grow up to six feet long, dotted with tiny, heart-shaped leaves in shades of silver and rose-pink. This plant is perfect for hanging planters or high shelves, where its cascading vines can really shine.

It thrives in most room temperatures but doesn’t like drafts or temperatures below 59℉. Keep its soil moist but not soggy, and mist it occasionally for an extra boost. Place it near a sunny window in the mornings or evenings for happy, healthy growth.

ZZ Plant

The ZZ plant is practically impossible to mess up, making it a favorite for new plant parents. Its glossy, zig-zag-edged leaves grow tall and upright, making it a striking standalone feature on a table or shelf. This plant is happy in low light or indirect sunlight and doesn’t mind being root-bound, so repotting isn’t something you’ll need to worry about often.

It’s extremely drought-tolerant, so you only need to water it when the soil is completely dry. Bonus: it purifies the air, making your home feel fresher. Give it a boost in spring and summer with monthly liquid fertilizer, and it’ll thrive with little effort on your part.

Kentia Palm

The Kentia palm is a stunning choice if you’re looking for a plant that brings elegance to your home. Its arching fronds grow up to 10 feet tall, making it a great option for filling an empty corner. This plant adapts to most light conditions but prefers indirect light, so keep it out of direct sunlight for the best results.

Water sparingly, ensuring the soil stays moist but never soggy. In winter, cut back on watering.

Spider Plant

The spider plant is a timeless favorite, and for good reason—it’s almost impossible to kill. Its long, striped leaves add a pop of green to any room, and it’s tough enough to thrive in low light or artificial light. Plus, it’s great for improving air quality, even helping to reduce carbon monoxide levels.

Water it regularly during spring and summer and less often in fall and winter. These plants look great in hanging baskets, on shelves, or windowsills. If you have pets, no worries—spider plants are safe for them, making this a perfect choice for any home.

Jade Plant

The jade plant is perfect for beginners because it practically takes care of itself. Its dark green, glossy leaves grow slowly, so you won’t have to worry about it outgrowing its space anytime soon. It’s a forgiving plant, thriving in bright light and requiring minimal watering—great for anyone who might forget about their plants now and then.

Set it up near a sunny window where it can soak up around six hours of light daily. Only water it when the soil feels completely dry, as overwatering is a common mistake.

Gasteria

Gasteria plants, with their chunky, tongue-shaped leaves, are quirky yet simple to care for. They’re perfect for anyone who’s new to plants or who tends to forget about watering. These succulents thrive in sunny spots and don’t need much attention, making them an excellent choice for low-maintenance greenery.

Find a sunny home for your Gasteria, like a windowsill or a well-lit desk. Water only when the soil is completely dry to avoid root rot.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is the ultimate low-maintenance plant with a purpose. Not only does it look great with its spiky, architectural leaves, but it also comes with natural soothing properties. While it occasionally blooms in bright shades of yellow or red, it’s happiest with minimal watering and lots of sunlight.

Give it a sunny spot where it can soak in about six hours of light a day. Water sparingly—let the soil dry out completely between waterings. Just keep it out of reach of curious pets or kids, as it’s toxic when ingested.

Snake Plant

The snake plant, with its tall, sword-like leaves, is a go-to for anyone new to plants. It’s practically unkillable, thriving in both bright and low-light conditions. Its ability to survive drought-like situations means you can forget about it for a while, and it’ll still look fantastic.

Place it in a well-lit spot for the best results, but it can handle less light if needed. Water only when the soil feels completely dry, and make sure it’s in a pot with good drainage.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.