Plants. We buy them, we love them, we kill them – it’s the circle of life! Greenery can elevate any space instantly, but many of us don’t give our house plants the attention they deserve. If you live in an apartment with no outdoor space or little natural light, fear not there are plenty of plants that can survive and thrive indoors.
Here’s our definitive list of plants that require minimal attention so you can enjoy their vibes for a long, long, time.
THE TRIED AND TRUE CACTUS
We tend to assume all succulents have the same water and light needs, but they actually vary considerably. That’s why you have probably killed succulents that everyone said were impossible to kill.
Try out one species at a time to keep them around, like this Bunny Ear Cactus. Keep it in a sunny windowsill and water every two weeks.
Fair warning: this cactus is pokey!
THE CHINESE EVERGREEN
This eye-catching classic houseplant holds up well in all temperatures and humidity levels, and is very forgiving to those of us who tend to overwater.
Some people kill their house plants because they forget they aren’t a piece of furniture or a painting on the wall. But for those of us who tend to walk around topping off drinks when we have friends over? We may have the tendency to overpour our house plants too.
We just want to give them love! The Chinese Evergreen will step up your décor game and be the water-loving plant friend you’ve never had.
THE SNAKE PLANT
These guys are known for their tough, bold look that adds a note of edginess to an otherwise cozy space. We love them for their two-toned leaves and just how much they love being ignored.
Unlike an actual snake, you can keep this medium-sized guy around for up to four weeks without having to pay him any mind. Only water once the soil is dry to the touch, and allow for partial sun exposure.
THE CLASSIC PHILODENDRON
Enjoyed for their heart-shaped leaves since the Victorian era, Philodendrons are staple indoor/outdoor plants that love to grow and grow. These viney, hanging beauties are great for small city apartments because they can utilize up and down space. Think Manhattan fire-escape vibes.
Water once half of the soil has dried. If the leaves turn yellow, water less. Moderate sunlight appreciated. Enjoy the company of these standbys and feel like the classy #adult that you are.
THE APTLY NAMED RUBBER TREE
The name pretty much says it all, but just because these guys are durable doesn’t mean they can’t add warmth to any room.
They like sunlight and water, so keep the soil moist in the warmer months. In the winter, give your guy some space. Because of their tough, broad leaves, rubber plants tend to collect dust, so spritz them, wipe them down, or even spray some PAM on those leaves for a gardener-approved oil change.
THE DRAGON TREE
You probably have a corner or two that doesn’t get much natural light. Place your pet dragon tree in these unloved corners for a bright pop of color. Water infrequently.
Beware – as friendly as these guys appear, they are toxic to both dogs and cats. Best to avoid bringing a dragon plant into your home unless it’s your only pet!
THE COLORFUL BROMELIAD
Plants that flower are typically harder to care for than non-flowering ones. But the Bromeliad can add a bright accent to your space without giving you an enormous headache or adding another chore on your to-do list. They come in a wide variety of colors so you can choose your favorite!
Keep the plant moist but not soggy and away from cold drafts. Just like us, the Bromeliad enjoys room temperature.
THE MEDICINAL ALOE VERA
Yes, you can use fresh aloe in your day-to-day life simply by trimming stalks off this popular succulent. Cut into the stalk and apply wherever needed, whether it’s for sunburn or a homemade face mask!
Water every three weeks in substantial quantities. Aloe can tolerate as much or as little sunlight as your room allows.
So there you have it!
Grab one or all of these green beauties to boost your apartment’s lived-in feel. Bonus: they oxygenate your air so you can breathe easy every time you come home. And remember, every plant is different and has different needs, just like pets or humans. Take the time to meet those needs and you’ll never kill another green friend again!
