Plants bring vitality to any corner of our homes, but common problems like limited space, lack of balconies or terraces, extreme climates, or simply having a “black thumb” can deter people from embracing the joy of plant care. However, fear not, for if you’re looking to venture into the beautiful and rewarding art of plant care, this is the guide you’ve been searching for.
At EL PAÍS Escaparate, we’ve curated a list of the top ten indoor plants that thrive in home environments with minimal care requirements. So, if you’ve ever thought, “I even manage to kill cacti,” welcome to a new path that will only bring you success. Choose one of these plants and take note of the basic and straightforward care tips to ensure their well-being.
What Benefits Do Indoor Plants Bring to Your Home?
- Low Maintenance: Simple and cost-effective upkeep.
- Companionship: They keep us company on gloomy, sad, and cold days typical of autumn and winter.
- Transformation: They transform spaces with their characteristic green color and other combinations of hues, depending on the chosen plant species.
- Oxygen: They produce fresh oxygen.
- Aromas: They fill the room not only with a touch of joy but also with various natural scents.
- Adaptability: They tolerate darkness and require moderate amounts of water to maintain their vitality.
Now, let’s delve into the world of these low-maintenance indoor plants:
1. Devil’s Ivy (Pothos)
Epipremnum aureum, also known as pothos or devil’s ivy, is perfect even for the most neglectful plant owners. It thrives in low light conditions and only needs watering when the soil in the pot dries out. Often seen in bathrooms due to its tolerance for low light, its ideal spot is on high furniture and shelves, as its trailing vines add a decorative touch to any space. Moreover, this plant is capable of filtering toxins from the air.
2. Dracaena
A highly decorative variety of the iconic Dracaena, the Cordyline Australis, also known as ‘cabbage plant,’ offers both visual appeal and minimal attention requirements. It tolerates high temperatures and doesn’t need much light, making it ideal for hallways or corridors. Simply water it once or twice a week when the soil is dry.
3. Peace Lily
Spathiphyllum, commonly known as the peace lily, naturally purifies the air and exudes elegance. One of the few indoor plants capable of blooming throughout the year, it adapts to different temperatures, light levels, and humidity levels. Simply water it once a week to maintain its health and beauty.
4. Guzmania Mini Rose
One of the most charming indoor plants in our selection, the Guzmania mini rose, adds a touch of joy to any small space in the house. As a perennial plant, its flowers remain vibrant for up to six months, boasting tubular shapes surrounded by cream-pink bracts.
5. Jade Plant
The jade plant, or Crassuwa Ovata, is one of the world’s most well-known succulents, with fleshy leaves and a tree-like form. It thrives in dry conditions and requires minimal watering, only occasional misting. It can grow to a height of one to two meters and prefers temperatures between 10 and 24 degrees Celsius.
6. Red Tulips
Highly decorative and originating from Central Asia, red tulips thrive in homes, especially for those who enjoy having flowers and color indoors. They withstand low temperatures well and are very easy to care for, providing a dynamic display as they “dance” throughout the day. Enjoy their blooms for up to three weeks.
7. Ficus Lyrata
The timeless Ficus Lyrata, or fiddle-leaf fig, is one of the most recognized and appreciated indoor plants. While it thrives in spacious interiors, it requires a bit more attention. Keep it away from radiators or drafts and maintain temperatures above 13°C. It needs indirect light and watering twice a week when the soil feels dry. Additionally, it aids in blocking noise pollution.
8. Swiss Cheese Plant (Monstera Adansonii)
The iconic Monstera, known as the Swiss cheese plant or Monstera Adansonii, is famous for its large, tropical-looking leaves with holes resembling Swiss cheese. Ideal for beginners, it thrives in humid environments. Mist its leaves occasionally and water it once a week. It can be placed indoors or outdoors but prefers temperatures between 10 and 24 degrees Celsius.
9. Aloe Vera
Another offering from Gardens4you, this Aloe Vera plant is super easy to care for and thrives in the heat of indoor environments. Besides its visual appeal, its leaves can be used for therapeutic and beauty purposes. Provide it with ample light and water it every 15 to 20 days with a small amount of water.
10. Mini Cactus
Its small size makes this mini cactus ideal for placement anywhere in the house as long as it receives direct light for at least four hours a day. It’s perfect for admiring in spring and summer, as it’s highly resistant to drought and requires minimal watering. Its striking pink/purple color adds to its allure.
With these low-maintenance indoor plants, you can enjoy the benefits of greenery in your home without the hassle of intensive care routines. Whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast or a beginner, there’s something on this list for everyone. So, pick your favorite and bring a touch of nature into your living space.