8 Common Houseplants (And How to Care for Them)

Houseplants are trending, and with so many gorgeous varieties of indoor greenery available, it’s no wonder. When choosing plants for your home, keep in mind the look you’re after, the amount of effort you’re willing to put into their care and the amount of space and sunlight you have.

Whether you choose just a few, or enough to start an entire indoor garden, here are some care and watering tips for some popular low-maintenance plants.

1. Snake Plant

• Plant Profile: Great for small spaces, and distinctive with leaves that are stiff and sharp. Easy to care for; can be neglected for weeks at a time.
• How to Water: Let plant dry out between waterings. Water less frequently during winter.
• Light Needs: Indirect sunlight is best.
• Caution: Toxic to humans and even more so to animals if eaten.

2. Peace Lily

• Plant Profile: In ideal conditions, the plant will unveil beautiful white flowers that look like calla lilies.
• How to Water: Keep soil moist but don’t overwater. Give the leaves a spritz of water occasionally.
• Light Needs: An east-facing window is best; avoid direct afternoon sunlight.
• Caution: Can be toxic to pets if eaten.

3. Fiddle Leaf Fig

• Plant Profile: Its waxy, dark leaves make a statement in any space. Likes humidity. Mist the plant regularly.
• How to Water: Water when the top of the soil is somewhat dry. Don’t overwater.
• Light Needs: Bright light but not direct sun.
• Caution: Toxic to dogs, cats and horses if eaten.

4. Philodendron

• Plant Profile: Notable for its heart-shaped leaves and easy care. If leaves turn yellow, the plant is getting too much sun. Leggy stems may result from too little light.
• How to Water: Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Avoid soggy soil.
• Light Needs: Tolerates a wide range of light conditions.
• Caution: Toxic to pets and humans if eaten.

5. ZZ Plant

• Plant Profile: Native to East Africa, this plant is virtually indestructible. Does fine with fluorescent light only. Drought-tolerant; if neglected, will perk up when watered again.
• How to Water: Water when the top few inches of soil are dry.
• Light Needs: Tolerates most light conditions.
• Caution: Toxic to animals and humans if eaten. Leaves can cause skin irritation.

6. Pothos

• Plant Profile: A trailing vine available in variations of leaf colors. If leaves are pale, the plant is getting too much light. In too little light, leaves will become solid green (not variegated).
• How to Water: Let dry between waterings. Water if leaves droop.
• Light Needs: Bright light but not direct sun. Tolerates low light.
• Caution: Toxic to humans and animals if eaten.

7. Majesty Palm

• Plant Profile: These tropical plants with long, feathery fronds can grow up to 15' tall.
• How to Water: Water once a week when the top inch of soil is dry. Don’t let soil dry completely.
• Light Needs: Avoid direct sunlight – it can cause leaves to brown.

8. Dumb Cane

• Plant Profile: Also known as the Leopard Lily, because of its spotty mix of green/white/yellow foliage. Keep away from cold drafts.
• How to Water: Water well on a regular schedule when the top 2-3" of soil are dry.
• Light Needs: Medium to bright light; direct sun can burn the leaves.
• Caution: Extremely poisonous if eaten. Sap can irritate the skin. Keep well away from pets and children.

Ready to begin creating your low-maintenance green space? Start shopping today for the best indoor plants to suit you.