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Top 15 Common Houseplants That Are Perfect for Beginners

November

15,

2024

Brian Barcenilla

10 min read

Bringing common houseplants into your home is more than just an aesthetic choice; it’s about creating a lively, fresh atmosphere that adds character and even improves air quality.

But with so many varieties of common houseplants out there, choosing the right ones can feel overwhelming.

That’s why we’re breaking down some of the best options to consider, each bringing its unique benefits to your indoor space. Plus, we’ve got a new #1 that’s not just any plant… meet Moss Amigos!

Let's jump in and discover which plants will bring the green vibe you crave.

Top 15 Picks for Your Home

1. Moss Amigos Moss Balls

Pet-Friendly | Light: Low, Indirect | Water: Every 2 weeks

Let’s kick things off with a little green friend who's making waves in the common houseplants world. Moss Amigos, also known as Marimo moss balls, are the ultimate houseplant for beginners or anyone looking for low-maintenance greenery. These adorable, velvety green balls thrive in water and need only minimal care. Perfect for a desk, coffee table, or even a small aquarium.

Why you’ll love them:

Stress-Free Care: Just change their water every few weeks and give them a gentle roll to keep their shape.
Aquatic Zen: Place them in a glass jar with water and watch them float. Their slow growth makes them easy to manage.
Pet Friendly: Cats, dogs, fish, you name it—Moss Amigos get along with everyone.

Fun Fact: Moss Amigos can live for decades, even up to 200 years! Talk about a lifetime companion.

Learn more: 8 Unexpected Facts About Marimo Moss Balls

2. Snake Plant (Dracaena trifasciata)

Not Pet-Friendly | Light: Low to bright indirect | Water: Minimal

Snake plants, with their sturdy, sword-like leaves, are often called “the ultimate survivor.” They’re famous for tolerating neglect and low-light conditions, making them an ideal choice for any plant parent, novice or experienced.

Why they’re awesome:

Low Light, No Problem: Perfect for dimly lit areas, they even thrive under fluorescent light.
Improves Air Quality: Known for filtering toxins, it’s like having a natural air purifier.
Minimal Water Needs: Watering once a month will keep them happy.

Fun Tip: They come in varieties with green, yellow, or even white-edged leaves, so pick one that fits your vibe.

3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

Not Pet-Friendly | Light: Low to moderate | Water: Low

Pothos is a true classic among common houseplants. It’s a hardy, trailing plant with heart-shaped leaves that come in green, yellow, and white variegations. Pothos’ trailing vines add elegance to any bookshelf, windowsill, or hanging basket.

Why Pothos is great:

Easy to Propagate: Just snip a stem, place it in water, and watch roots grow.
Adjusts to Light Conditions: Thrives in low to moderate light, but higher light brings out its colors.
Air Purifier: Like the snake plant, pothos helps cleanse the air.

Extra Point: Pothos can grow several feet long, so it’s perfect for adding some dramatic greenery.

4. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

Pet-Friendly | Light: Bright indirect | Water: Moderate

With its arching leaves striped in green and white, the spider plant is a playful and fast-growing houseplant. It’s easygoing and produces adorable “spiderettes” or baby plants that dangle from its stems, creating a unique look.

Why spider plants are a must-have:

Pet-Safe: One of the safest plants for households with pets.
Low-Maintenance: Just water it moderately and place it in bright, indirect light.
Fun to Propagate: Those little spiderettes can be clipped and rooted to create new plants.

Pro Tip: Great for hanging baskets where it can display its “babies” freely!

5. Monstera (Monstera deliciosa)

Not Pet-Friendly | Light: Moderate to bright indirect | Water: Moderate

The Monstera, or Swiss cheese plant, is known for its striking, fenestrated leaves that bring a tropical vibe indoors. Its large, unique leaves with natural holes make it a favorite for anyone looking to make a statement.

Why you’ll love having a monstera:

Bold Look: Adds a lot of personality to a room with its large, split leaves.
Easy Growth: This plant is forgiving and flourishes with moderate care.
Instagram Favorite: It's one of the trendiest plants for home decor.

Did You Know? Monstera leaves develop those signature holes as they mature, adding to their character.

6. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

Not Pet-Friendly | Light: Low to bright indirect | Water: Low

If you’re a forgetful plant parent, the ZZ plant is one of those common houseplants that’s perfect for you. Known for its thick, waxy leaves, this plant stores water well and can tolerate low light and low humidity, making it perfect for nearly any indoor environment.

Why it’s worth your attention:

Thrives on Neglect: Practically unkillable, ideal for anyone who’s “too busy” for plants.
Low-Light Champion: Perfect for that dimly lit corner or office space.
Unique Look: With its glossy, deep green leaves, it’s a natural beauty.

7. Fiddleleaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)

Not Pet-Friendly | Light: Bright, indirect | Water: Moderate

Fiddleleaf figs have become the darling of the interior design world with their large, glossy, violin-shaped leaves that make a powerful statement. They may be a bit fussy about their lighting needs but are well worth the effort.

Why people love fiddleleaf figs:

Decor Star: It’s the ultimate plant for a modern, chic look.
Great Size: They can grow up to 6-10 feet indoors if cared for properly.
Purifies Air: It’s a natural air cleaner, adding to its appeal.

Plant Parent Alert: Rotate it occasionally for even light exposure, and avoid moving it too often to keep it happy.

8. Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)

Not Pet-Friendly | Light: Bright | Water: Low

Jade plants are classic succulents with plump, oval leaves and a tree-like appearance that can live for decades. They’re perfect for sunny spots and make wonderful gifts because of their association with good luck.

Why jade plants are a win:

Low Watering Needs: Water sparingly; they’re drought-tolerant.
Unique Charm: Its tree-like structure adds a mini-sculptural look.
Good Luck Plant: It’s thought to bring prosperity!

9. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)

Not Pet-Friendly | Light: Bright, indirect | Water: Moderate

Rubber plants are known for their large, glossy, dark green leaves that bring sophistication to any room. These plants can grow quite large if given proper care and can easily become a statement piece in your home.

Reasons to go for a rubber plant:

Elegant Look: Its broad leaves add a touch of elegance.
Adapts Well: Tolerates varying light conditions and some neglect.
Low-Maintenance Beauty: Perfect for adding greenery without too much fuss.

10. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

Not Pet-Friendly | Light: Low to moderate | Water: High

The Peace Lily is a well-loved option among common houseplants, known for its dark green leaves and white blooms. It’s also one of the top air-purifying plants, making it ideal for bedrooms and office spaces.

Why peace lilies are popular:

Easygoing: Tolerates low light and prefers humid conditions.
Air Purifier: Known for reducing toxins, it’s great for air quality.
Graceful Blooms: Its flowers are a subtle yet beautiful feature.

11. Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)

Not Pet-Friendly | Light: Low to moderate | Water: Moderate

Philodendrons are reliable, trailing plants with heart-shaped leaves that look beautiful in hanging pots or on shelves. They adapt well to various lighting conditions and are incredibly easy to care for.

What makes philodendrons a hit:

Easy to Care For: Perfect for beginners, these plants are low-maintenance.
Flexible Lighting Needs: Thrives in indirect light but tolerates low light.
Ideal for Decorating: Great for creating a jungle vibe indoors.

12. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)

Not Pet-Friendly | Light: Low to moderate | Water: Moderate

Chinese Evergreen plants are a fantastic choice if you're looking for an eye-catching plant with striking foliage. Known for their beautiful, variegated leaves that can display shades of green, silver, pink, or red, Chinese Evergreens brighten up any space. Plus, they’re one of the easiest houseplants to care for, making them perfect for beginners.

Why Chinese Evergreens are a great pick:

Easy Care: Tolerates low light and doesn’t demand frequent watering.
Colorful Varieties: Adds a touch of color to your plant collection without needing flowers.
Durable and Resilient: They thrive in less-than-ideal conditions, including low light and low humidity.

Tip: Keep them out of drafts, as they prefer a stable environment to thrive.

13. String-of-Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)

Not Pet-Friendly | Light: Bright, indirect | Water: Low

The String-of-Pearls plant is a stunning succulent with unique, bead-like leaves that cascade gracefully, making it an attractive choice for hanging baskets or shelves. Its one-of-a-kind appearance adds an architectural element to any indoor space, and it’s remarkably low-maintenance, just like most succulents.

What makes String-of-Pearls special:

Distinct Look: The round “pearls” make it one of the most recognizable and stylish succulents.
Easy to Propagate: Simply place a strand in soil, and it’ll start to root.
Minimal Watering Needs: Perfect for busy plant parents; water only when the soil is completely dry.

Note: Ensure it gets bright, indirect light to maintain its plump, beautiful pearls, and avoid overwatering, as it’s prone to root rot.

14. African Violet (Saintpaulia)

Pet-Friendly | Light: Moderate | Water: Moderate

African Violets are compact common houseplants known for their velvety leaves and clusters of colorful flowers in shades of purple, pink, white, and blue. These plants can bloom year-round with proper care, making them a lively addition to any windowsill.

Why African Violets are a joy:

Year-Round Blooms: With proper care, they can keep flowering throughout the year.
Compact Size: Perfect for small spaces, desktops, and windowsills.
Pet-Friendly: Safe for cats and dogs, so you can enjoy these blooms without worry.

Tip: Water African Violets from the bottom to avoid wetting the leaves, which helps prevent fungal growth.

15. Air Plants (Tillandsia)

Pet-Friendly | Light: Bright, indirect | Water: Misting or soaking

Air plants, or Tillandsia, are unlike most plants as they don’t require soil to grow. These little wonders take nutrients directly from the air, making them perfect for unique displays like hanging glass globes, driftwood arrangements, or wall-mounted plant holders. They’re also low-maintenance, making them a fun addition to your home.

Why air plants are a unique choice:

No Soil Needed: These plants can be placed almost anywhere and add a modern touch to home decor.
Low Maintenance: Just mist them occasionally or soak them in water once a week.
Pet-Friendly: Safe for both cats and dogs, so you can hang them anywhere worry-free.

Fun Display Tip: Arrange a few air plants in a glass terrarium with decorative stones for a minimalist, modern look.