Houseplants you’ll love this winter

Once the furnace kicks on, humidity inside drops and some plants start crisping up. Instead of fighting constant brown tips, lean on houseplants that actually tolerate, or even prefer, drier indoor air and winter light levels.

Here are solid options that tend to ride out heating season without drama.

1. Snake plant

Snake plants handle low light, skipped waterings, and dry air like it’s nothing. Thick leaves store water, so you can let the soil dry almost completely between waterings. They’re great in corners where other plants pout in winter.

2. ZZ plant

ZZ plants are another “set it and forget it” option. They tolerate low to medium light and very infrequent watering thanks to their thick rhizomes. Dry indoor air from the heater doesn’t faze them nearly as much as fussier tropicals.

3. Pothos

Pothos is forgiving about missed waterings and dimmer winter windows. It won’t complain if the air is drier, as long as you don’t let it sit in soggy soil. Trim and root cuttings in water if vines get leggy and you want a fuller pot for spring.

4. Cast iron plant

The name fits. Cast iron plants tolerate low light, cool rooms, and inconsistent watering. They’re slow but tough, and dry furnace air is usually less of a problem than overwatering.

5. Rubber plant

Rubber plants prefer bright, indirect light but handle typical indoor winter air just fine. Wipe the big leaves occasionally to keep dust off so they can breathe. Let the top inch or two of soil dry before watering again.

6. Spider plant

Spider plants are shockingly tolerant of cool temps, low humidity, and uneven light. They’ll appreciate occasional misting, but they won’t fall apart without it. They’re great in hanging baskets away from floor vents.

7. Jade plant

Jade plants are succulents, so they like bright light and infrequent watering. Dry indoor air is usually less of an issue than overwatering. Let soil dry well between waterings and keep them out of drafty doors.

8. Aloe vera

Aloe also behaves well in winter as long as it gets decent light and isn’t overwatered. It stores water in its leaves, so dry air doesn’t bother it much. Just protect it from direct blasts of hot air from vents, which can scorch leaves.

9. Parlor palm or areca palm

Some palms—like parlor or areca—do a decent job of adding greenery and a bit of humidity without demanding tropical conditions. They’ll look best in bright, indirect light with regular but not heavy watering.

10. Peace lily (with a little extra care)

Peace lilies do like more humidity, but they’re still on many dry-air lists because they’re good at telling you what they need. Leaves droop when it’s time to water, then bounce back. If your house is extra dry, set the pot on a pebble tray with water so it gets a little boost without overwatering the soil.