5 Best Indoor Plants for Beginners

For all the joy they can bring, indoor plants can be a hassle. While it may seem like all you have to do is water your botanical friends, the reality can often be far more complicated. On top of hydration, indoor plants need the appropriate environmental conditions and sunlight. Even some of the most commonly marketed plants for beginners can be quite finicky.

Fortunately, there are a a few plants that are truly low-maintenance plants for beginners.

1. Peperomia

Peperomia, sometimes called radiator plants, are most commonly found in South and Central America. No more than a foot high, peperomia feature large, rounded, waxy leaves that are sturdy and super-smooth. A mostly hardy house plant, peperomia aren’t super picky about their environment. 

• Water: Roughly 1× per week
• Soil: Chunky, loamy, and well-draining
• Lighting: Indirect bright light

2. Spider Plant

Chlorophytum Comosum, or the spider plant, was originally discovered in Africa by Carl Peter Thunberg. Sometimes able to sprout delicate white flowers, its leaves are the main attraction. Long, elegant, and ribbon-like, Spider Plants foliage makes it a great hanging plant.

The Spider Plant thrives in the relative coolness of the standard home in temperatures ranging from 65° and 90° Fahrenheit. Some Spider Plants become quite long and may need occasional trimming.

• Water: Roughly 1× per week
• Soil: Any well-draining soil
• Lighting: Indirect bright light

3. Cast Iron Plant

Aspidistra elatior, or the cast iron plant, is native to East Asia and a top choice for fans of larger houseplants. Mature Cast Iron Plants can grow to around 3-feet high and more than 2-feet wide. When grown indoors, this plant will not flower, but if put outside during warming months it may produce small purple blooms. 

• Water: 1-2× per week and less during the winter
• Soil: Any well-draining soil
• Lighting: Low light to medium indirect light

4. Fiddle Leaf Fig

The elegant, violin-shaped leaves of the Ficus Lyrata have made this little tree a popular statement piece in many homes. Native to tropical West Africa, the fiddle leaf fig begins life atop another tree. Its roots will eventually reach the ground, at which point they will smother the host tree and take over. The tropical origins of the Ficus Lyrata make it more suited for folks with a bit more time to care for their plant. 

• Water: 1× every 7–10 days
• Soil: Well-draining soil, such as orchid mixes
• Lighting: Indirect bright light

5. Madagascar Dragon Tree

Dracaena Marginata, also known as the Madagascar Dragon Tree, is a gorgeous, palm-tree-like plant native to the remote island of Madagascar. Featuring a maximum height of roughly six feet and long, pointed fronds that grow in bushy clumps, the Dracaena Marginata makes a whimsical addition to living and workspaces.

The Madagascar Dragon Tree is toxic to dogs and cats when ingested. It is not recommended for any homes with pets.

• Water: 1x per week or when dry
• Soil: Any well-draining soil
• Lighting: Indirect bright light