The 12 Best Terrarium Plants to Grow in Your Miniature Garden
Air Plant · 'Aquamarine' Pilea · Black Mondo Grass · Dwarf Golden Sweet Flag · Golden Clubmoss · 'Moon Valley' Pilea · Mother Fern · Nerve Plant.
houseplant
Each glossy, green leaf of variegated spider fern sports a yellow band down its center. The distinguishing characteristic sets this easy-care, evergreen fern apart from similar-looking plants. Though variegated spider fern can grow relatively large for a <anchor>houseplant</anchor>, you can take it outside and plant it in a shade garden in Zones 6-9 if it eventually outgrows your terrarium.
24 Easy-Care Houseplants With Low Watering Needs​
24 Easy-Care Houseplants With Low Watering Needs​[Skip to content](#main)

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# 24 Easy-Care Houseplants With Low Watering Needs

These low-maintenance houseplants add lushness and color to your home without needing much more than an occasional watering.

By

[Savanna Bous](https://www.bhg.com/author/savanna-bous/)

[Savanna Bous](https://www.bhg.com/author/savanna-bous/)

Savanna Bous is a digital editorial assistant at Better Homes and Gardens. She graduated from Drake University in the spring of 2022 with degrees in magazine media, advertising, and digital media production.

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Updated on March 6, 2024

Reviewed by

[David McKinney](https://www.bhg.com/david-mckinney-6833785)

Reviewed by [David McKinney](https://www.bhg.com/david-mckinney-6833785)

David McKinney is an experienced plantsman sharing his expertise in horticulture. His knowledge spans landscape management, growing plants indoors and in the greenhouse, ecological plant selection, and much more. With nearly 15 years in the industry, he is well versed in both herbaceous and woody plants with additional interest in entomology.

[Learn about BHG's Gardening Review Board](/better-homes-and-gardens-garden-review-board-6833715)

Close

![three indoor houseplants in decorative pots](https://www.bhg.com/thmb/SfvVALaQxFyi4vYdbhBR11S41S8=/1280x0/filters:no_upscale():strip_icc()/indoor-potted-houseplants-703b321a-81cf8e1f9aee48a28e1be3bbc45e4386.jpg)

Photo: Jacob Fox

Nervous about keeping a houseplant alive? Don't worry: Low-maintenance and beginner-friendly, these plants only require a little water from time to time. So go ahead and add some fresh greenery and a charming plant stand to your home. These beauties will thrive in your home regardless of your skill level.

[Should You Be Using Tap Water for Houseplants? Here's What Experts Say](https://www.bhg.com/tap-water-for-houseplants-8686969)

01of 24

## Aloe

Marty Baldwin

[Aloe vera](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/herb/aloe-vera/) thrives on neglect—in fact, the biggest [mistake you can make with this succulent is overwatering](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/houseplants/care/did-i-kill-my-aloe-vera-plant/), which will cause its leaves to droop. Its leaves come in various sizes and shapes, and are decorated with white spots and edged with small whitish teeth. The plants look striking on their own or in an [indoor arrangement](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/houseplants/projects/decorating-with-houseplants/) with other rounded-edge succulents.

**Growing Conditions:** Bright light; allow the soil to dry out between waterings; 55-80°F

**Size:** 1-3 feet tall, 6-12 inches wide

02of 24

## Chinese Evergreen

Jacob Fox

Featuring leaves in various shades of silver, gray, green, and even pink and red, [Chinese evergreen](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/houseplant/chinese-evergreen/) ( _Aglaonema commutatum)_ is an excellent choice for brightening up [low-light areas of your home](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/houseplants/projects/indoor-plants-for-low-light/). You’ll often see them in a shopping mall or airport plantings because they are so adaptable and durable, yet attractive.

**Growing Conditions:** Low to medium light; 60-75°F; keep evenly moist

**Size:** 1-3 feet tall and wide

All parts of this plant are toxic.

03of 24

## Grape Ivy

Denny Schrock

No matter which type of [grape ivy](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/houseplant/grape-ivy/) ( _Cissus rhombifolia)_ you choose, the shiny, deep green leaves will add an interesting texture to a room. Its tendrils will easily cling to a trellis or a stake for a vertical display. Even though it’s a vine, grape ivy has more of a mounding habit so it’s a perfect choice for a lush, tidy-looking [indoor hanging basket](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/houseplants/hanging-indoor-plants/). 'Ellen Danica,’ the variety shown here, is also called oakleaf ivy because of the way its leaves are deeply cut.

**Growing Conditions:** Medium light; 65-80°F; keep evenly moist

**Size:** Up to 6 feet long as a vine

04of 24

## Peperomia

Jacob Fox

[Peperomias](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/houseplant/peperomia/) ( _Peperomia_ spp.) are a diverse group of small, easy-care houseplants with waxy and often highly textured leaves. Some of our favorite varieties include ripple peperomia, watermelon peperomia, baby rubber plant, and silverleaf peperomia. Its waxy, [colorful foliage](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/houseplants/projects/foliage-plants-to-grow/) adds a splash of color in any room without taking up a lot of space.

**Growing Conditions:** Low to medium light; 60-75°F; allow the soil surface to dry between waterings

**Size:** 2-36 inches tall, 4-18 inches wide

[5 Houseplants with Colorful Leaves to Brighten Up Your Home](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/houseplants/projects/new-houseplants-with-colorful-leaves/)

05of 24

## Norfolk Island Pine

Dean Schoeppner

Outdoors, a [new tree can be a big investment](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/trees-shrubs-vines/trees/selecting-trees-for-your-yard/), but easy [indoor trees](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/houseplants/projects/indoor-trees/) can make affordable yet eye-catching houseplants for beginners. The secret to keeping [Norfolk Island pine](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/houseplant/norfolk-island-pine/) ( _Araucaria heterophylla)_ healthy indoors is to give it bright but indirect light. In low light, the lower branches tend to turn brown and fall off. This plant’s soft texture adds a cozy, woodsy feeling to a room. It is especially [cute when decorated for Christmas](https://www.bhg.com/christmas/trees/easy-tabletop-christmas-trees/).

**Growing Conditions:** Bright light; 60-75°F; allow the soil surface to dry between waterings

**Size:** 1-3 feet tall, 1-5 feet wide

06of 24

## Dieffenbachia

Jacob Fox

Several closely related species share the name of [dieffenbachia](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/houseplant/dieffenbachia/) ( _Dieffenbachia_ spp.), and they all have canelike stems and lush green foliage variegated in white or cream. Its large, green-and-white leaves [add a tropical touch](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/houseplants/projects/tropical-flowers-for-the-home/) to any room of your home, especially if you place it in a basket-style planter.

**Growing Conditions:** Low to medium light; 60-80°F; keep evenly moist

**Size:** 1-3 feet tall, 2-3 feet wide

All parts of this plant are toxic.

07of 24

## Snake Plant

Jacob Fox

This [easy succulent plant](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/houseplants/projects/top-10-succulents-for-home/) seems almost indestructible. [Snake plant](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/houseplant/snake-plant/) ( _Sansevieria trifasciata_ 'Laurentii’) tolerates low light and little water while still maintaining its good looks, with its sword-like leaves adding strong vertical lines to a space. You can find several different varieties with different leaf shapes and patterns like the ones shown here.

**Growing Conditions:** Low to bright light; 60-85°F; allow the soil surface to dry between watering

**Size:** 1-3 feet tall, 3-36 inches wide

Snake plants are toxic to humans and pets.

08of 24

## Philodendron

Jacob Fox

A heart-leaf [philodendron](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/houseplant/philodendron/) ( _Philodendron hederaceum oxycardium)_ is just plain adorable with its glossy, heart-shape foliage and draping vines. Plus, it adapts well to low-light spots and doesn’t mind if you forget to water it a time or two. Its trailing stems look especially pretty draping down from a shelf or hanging basket.

**Growing Conditions:** Low to bright light; 60-80°F; allow the soil surface to dry between waterings

**Size:** Trailing or climbing up to 8 feet or more

All parts of this plant are toxic.

09of 24

## Spider Plant

Denny Schrock

One of the most easily recognized houseplants, [spider plants](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/houseplant/spider-plant/) ( _Chlorophytum comosum_ 'Vittatum’) have been gracing our homes for decades. It’s easy to see why: These undemanding beauties send out straplike, arching leaves that give it a jaunty, spidery look. Once the plants get big enough, they start producing baby plants on the ends of long stems that are a [cinch to root in pots of their own](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/houseplants/care/can-i-start-new-plants-from-babies-dangling-from-my-spider-plant/). Some have plain green leaves while other varieties are variegated with cream or white stripes.

**Growing Conditions:** Medium to bright light; 60-75°F; keep the soil evenly moist

**Size:** 6-12 inches tall, 6-24 inches wide

10of 24

## ZZ Plant

Jason Donnelly

Sometimes called eternity plant because it lasts so long, [ZZ plant](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/houseplant/zeezee-plant/) ( _Zamioculcas zamiifolia_) will even grow in low light and can go weeks without water. The fun nickname aside, you’ll love this plant for its gently arching stems lined on either side with deep green, smooth leaves. Choose a deep green variety or change it up with a [variety called 'Raven](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/houseplants/projects/raven-zz-plant/)’ that has almost black leaves.

**Growing Conditions:** Low to bright light; 60-75°F; allow the soil to dry between waterings

**Size:** 2-3 feet tall and wide

The ZZ plant is toxic to humans and pets.

11of 24

## Arrowhead Vine

Jacob Fox

[Arrowhead vine](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/houseplant/arrowhead-vine/) ( _Syngonium podophyllum)_ gets its name from the triangular shape of its green leaves. You can find varieties with variegated leaves or even bronzy-green [with pink tones](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/gardening-trends/pink-plants/) (you might also see it sold as _Nepthytis)_. Young plants form a mound about a foot high, but stems begin to vine as they mature, so you can grow them upright if you give them support or let them trail in a hanging basket. The interesting shape of the leaves and trailing stems give any room [a tropical feel](https://www.bhg.com/indoor-palm-plants-8553059).

**Growing Conditions:** Low to medium light; 60-75°F; keep evenly moist

**Size:** 6-12 inches tall, 6-36 inches wide

This vine is toxic.

12of 24

## Hoya

Kindra Clineff

Wax plant is a species of [hoya](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/houseplant/hoya/) ( _Hoya carnosa)_ that has trailing, slender stems lined with small, waxy green leaves. It also will bloom occasionally, producing small clusters of fragrant pink flowers. Golden wax plant (pictured) adds creamy variegation to the plant’s appeal. It’s one of the most [powerfully fragrant indoor blooming plants](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/houseplants/projects/top-fragrant-houseplants/) you can grow, plus it [needs very little water](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/houseplants/care/watering-houseplants/).

**Growing Conditions:** Medium to bright light; 55-75°F; allow the soil surface to dry between waterings

**Size:** 4-12 feet tall, 2-6 feet wide

13of 24

## Rubber Tree

Marty Baldwin

A classic houseplant, the [rubber tree](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/houseplant/ficus/) ( _Ficus elastica)_ gets its name from the sticky, milky sap it exudes from cuts. It can eventually grow into a large tree, but you can easily keep it shorter by pruning back long stems, causing it to branch into a multi-stemmed shrub. Its large, dark green, shiny leaves always make a statement, but you can also find variegated varieties that add interesting leaf patterns to the mix. Make sure to give it medium to bright light and keep it away from drafts so its [leaves don't fall off](https://www.bhg.com/why-are-your-rubber-plant-leaves-falling-off-8391727).

**Growing Conditions:** Medium to bright light; 60-80°F; allow the soil surface to dry between waterings

**Size:** 6-8 feet tall, 4-6 feet wide

The plant is toxic to pets.

[The 10 Best Self-Watering Planters of 2024 to Avoid Overwatering](https://www.bhg.com/best-self-watering-planters-7112388)

14of 24

## Cast-Iron Plant

Marty Baldwin

True to its name, [cast-iron plant](https://www.bhg.com/how-to-grow-and-care-for-cast-iron-plant-8386041) ( _Aspidistra elatior)_ seems to take just about anything you can dish out. It can withstand neglect and tolerate low light, low humidity, and a wide range of temperatures. Look for a plant that’s large enough for the space you want it to fill, because this easy-care houseplant grows slowly. You can also find some varieties that have white or yellow variegation on their leaves.

**Growing Conditions:** Low light; 45-85°F; keep evenly moist during active growth, barely moist in fall and winter

**Size:** 2-3 feet tall, 1-2 feet wide

[31 Best Low-Light Indoor Plants to Brighten Up Your Home](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/houseplants/projects/indoor-plants-for-low-light/)

15of 24

## Corn Plant

Jacob Fox

The wide, straplike leaves of the corn plant resemble the leaves of its namesake, corn. Yet this houseplant belongs to the diverse [dracaena](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/houseplant/dracaena/) ( _Dracaena deremensis_) family of tropical plants. Some corn plants have plain green leaves, but some varieties like 'Warneckii’ offer white, cream, gold, or chartreuse stripes on their foliage. They tolerate low light, but produce better color in medium to bright light. It makes a substantial floor plant, or prop it up on a low plant stand with its glossy foliage and upright stems.

**Growing Conditions:** Medium to bright light; 65-75°F; allow the soil surface to dry between waterings

**Size:** 6-10 feet tall, 2-3 feet wide

This plant is toxic to pets.

16of 24

## English Ivy

Jacob Fox

[English ivy](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/houseplant/english-ivy/) ( _Hedera helix_) has leathery leaves and vigorous vining stems that have made it popular as an [outdoor groundcover](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/flowers/perennials/10-top-groundcover-plants/), but unfortunately it has [become invasive in some regions](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/gardening-by-region/regional-gardening/invasive-plants-by-region/). It can be an easy-care houseplant, too, and you’ll be better able to keep it contained that way. It does best in bright but indirect light, though it will do fine in low light as well. It works well wherever you need a draping plant or it easily can be encouraged to climb a support if you want a more upright look.

**Growing Conditions:** Medium to bright light; 55-70°F; keep evenly moist

**Size:** 3-8 feet tall, 1-5 feet wide

All parts of this plant are toxic to humans and pets.

17of 24

## Jade Plant

Marty Baldwin

If [remembering to water](https://www.bhg.com/houseplant-care-mistakes-8421147) is a struggle, [jade plant](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/houseplant/jade-plant/) ( _Crassula ovata_) may be just what you need. This slow grower can survive for weeks and even months without water because it stores what it needs in its fleshy stems and leaves. So if you can keep a [cactus](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/how-to-garden/how-to-start-a-cactus-garden-281474979809975/#:~:text=General%20Cactus%20Care&text=Sunlight%3A%20Whether%20indoors%20or%20out,soil%20dry%20out%20between%20drinks.) alive, you can grow a jade plant. As it grows, the thick stems branch like a small shrub or tree, which adds fun contrast when grown alongside other succulents with squat shapes.

**Growing Conditions:** Bright light; 65-75°F, 55°F in winter; keep moderately dry

**Size:** 3-6 feet tall, 2-3 feet wide

18of 24

## Ponytail Palm

Jacob Fox

Despite its common name, [ponytail palm](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/houseplant/ponytail-palm/) ( _Beaucarnea recurvata_) is a succulent rather than a true palm. This easy houseplant has graceful, arching leaves and a thick trunk that give it a striking, treelike appearance. Because the trunk actually stores moisture, ponytail palm can survive for long periods without watering (perfect for forgetful plant parents).

**Growing Conditions:** Bright light; 65-75°F, 50-55°F in winter; allow the soil to dry between waterings

**Size:** 3-10 feet tall, 1-4 feet wide

19of 24

## Schefflera

Dean Schoeppner

Also called umbrella tree, easy-to-grow [schefflera](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/houseplant/schefflera/) ( _Schefflera actinophylla_) has glossy foliage with leaflets that radiate out from a central point, just like an umbrella’s ribs. A close relative called dwarf schefflera ( _Schefflera arboricola_) has smaller, thicker leaflets and shorter stems. Look for variegated varieties for even more interesting leaves.

**Growing Conditions:** Medium to bright light; 60-75°F; keep the soil evenly moist

**Size:** 2-8 feet tall, 3-6 feet wide

Schefflera is toxic to pets.

20of 24

## Calathea

Denny Schrock

[Calathea](https://www.bhg.com/calathea-care-tips-7371655) ( _Calathea concinna)_ or prayer plant will draw attention no matter where you place it, thanks to its boldly striped leaves. There are plenty of varieties to choose from, some with rose, white, or yellow leaves. Each one also has a unique leaf pattern of colorful spots or blotches. This easy houseplant seems to light up even the dimmest corner with its patterned foliage.

**Growing Conditions:** Low light; water every two to seven days; 65-75°F; avoid direct sunlight.

**Size:** 6-24 inches tall and wide

21of 24

## Weeping Fig

Mike Jensen

The longtime darling of interior designers, [weeping fig](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/houseplant/ficus/) ( _Ficus benjamina)_ produces tons of shiny green, teardrop-shaped leaves on slender branches. You can find braided forms, too, featuring three or more of these small trees woven together to form one spectacular trunk. Unlike the [fiddle leaf fig](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/houseplants/care/fiddle-leaf-fig-care/), this indoor tree isn’t fussy about water and humidity.

**Growing Conditions:** Bright indirect light; allow the soil to dry out between waterings; 60-75°F; keep away from cold drafts

**Size:** 4-15 feet tall, 3-6 feet wide

The plant is toxic to pets.

22of 24

## Columnea

Dean Schoeppner

One look at the bright orange blooms of columnea ( _Columnea gloriosa)_, and you’ll know why its common name is goldfish plant. You’ll usually start to see flowers appearing in the spring and summer, but even when it’s not in bloom, this plant’s glossy, dark green foliage is beautiful all on its own. This easy houseplant for beginners has trailing branches that work well in hanging baskets. Pinch it occasionally to keep the plant compact.

**Growing Conditions:** Bright, indirect light; allow the soil to dry out between waterings; 60-75°F.

**Size:** 18-24 inches long

23of 24

## Pothos

Jacob Fox

This [low-maintenance houseplant](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/houseplants/projects/houseplant-closet-experiment/) is commonly called devil’s ivy or [pothos](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/houseplant/pothos/) ( _Epipremnum aureum_). It’s not fussy about how much light it gets, but yes, it does need some. And if you forget to water it for a while, it will quickly rebound when you do give it a drink. There are plain green ones as well as variegated varieties. Devil’s ivy looks lovely trailing out of a hanging basket, climbing up a pole or other structure, or just being left to meander over a tabletop or mantel.

**Growing Conditions:** Low to bright light; 60-75°F; keep the soil moderately dry

**Size:** 6-8 feet long, 3-6 feet wide

All parts of this plant are toxic.

24of 24

## Kalanchoe

Olga Volodina/Getty Images

There aren’t many houseplants, let alone succulent ones, that can top kalanchoe’s floral show. You may have encountered it before in grocery stores, laden with bright red, pink, yellow, or orange flowers. [Kalanchoe](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/houseplant/kalanchoe/) usually blooms in winter and early spring for several weeks. Other than an [occasional soaking with water](https://www.bhg.com/gardening/houseplants/care/how-to-water-succulents/), you won’t have to do much else for this succulent to enjoy its colorful show.

**Growing Conditions:** Bright indirect light; allow the soil to dry out between waterings; 60-75°F

**Size:** 6-12 inches tall, 6-36 inches wide

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Sources

Better Homes & Gardens is committed to using high-quality, reputable sources—including peer-reviewed studies—to support the facts in our articles. Read about our [editorial policies and standards](/better-homes-and-gardens-editorial-policy-and-standards-5537160) to learn more about how we fact check our content for accuracy.

01. 1\. Aglaonema Commutatum. Aglaonema commutatum - plant finder. Accessed July 31, 2024. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276174.

02. [_Dieffenbachia sequine_](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/dieffenbachia-seguine/). North Carolina State University Extension.

03. [_Dracaena trifasciata_](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/dracaena-trifasciata/). North Carolina State University Extension.

04. [_Philodendron hederaceum_](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/philodendron-hederaceum-var-hederaceum/). North Carolina State University Extension.

05. [_Zamioculcas zamiifolia_](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/zamioculcas-zamiifolia/). North Carolina State University Extension.

06. [_Syngonium podophyllum_](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/syngonium-podophyllum/). North Carolina State University Extension.

07. [_Ficus elastica_](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/ficus-elastica/). North Carolina State University Extension.

08. [_Dracaena deremensis_](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/dracaena-fragrans/). North Carolina State University Extension.

09. [_Hedera helix_](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/hedera-helix/). North Carolina State University Extension.

10. [_Schefflera actinophylla_](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/schefflera-actinophylla/). North Carolina State University Extension.

11. _Ficus benjamina_. North Carolina State University Extension.

12. [_Epipremnum aureum_](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/epipremnum-aureum/). North Carolina State University Extension.


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