It can be hard growing a houseplant if you’re a student or it’s your first time. Fortunately, experts have revealed a list of plants that can withstand even the most negligent conditions
Student living, poky flats and general inexperience can make owning a houseplant daunting, but luckily experts have revealed a list of potted plants that are hard to kill and which will fit well in smaller spaces.
After all, there are many benefits to owning a houseplant beyond being merely decorative. They are known to reduce stress, improve concentration and even purify the air around you – ideal for those working long hours.
You don’t have to be a bona fide green thumb to grow them either. Garden experts from Beards and Daisies say there are a whole range of visually striking plants that are virtually “unkillable” that first-time plant owners can try their hand at. So, which are they?
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Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
Snake plants have long been a popular choice for low maintenance plant owners – for good reason. According to Beards and Daisies: “Snake plants don’t mind low light, need very little water, and are great at cleaning the air.”
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas Zamiifolia)
This small, leafy plant is perfect for especially lazy plant-owners. Beards and Daisies says: “It can handle neglect, doesn’t need much light, and only needs the occasional watering.”
Aloe Vera
Aloe is well known for the soothing gel found within its leaves, capable of assuaging burns and other skin irritation. Even better, Beards and Daisies says it is “simple to care for, doesn’t need much water, and likes bright light.”
Kentia Palm (Howea Forsteriana)
This wide-leafed palm is a great choice for those looking for something a little bigger. “It grows slowly, doesn’t fuss about low light, and helps clean the air,” Beards and Daisies advise.
Pothos (Epipremnum Aureum)
With its trailing vines, this incredibly low-maintenance plant is perfect draping over desks and shelves. According to Beards and Daisies: “Pothos can grow in just about any condition and forgives a missed watering or two.”
Prayer Plant (Maranta Leuconeura)
If you’re looking to add some fun to your space, this plant’s leaves actually move with the light during the day. Beards and Daises advises: “It doesn’t need much attention, just some indirect light and occasional watering.”
Jade Plant (Crassula Ovata)
This bright green plant known for its good luck is also a great choice for lazy plant-owners. Requiring little water and capable of living more than 50 years, Beards and Daisies describes the succulent as “small, neat, and easy to keep on a sunny windowsill”.
Euphorbia Trigona (Cactus)
This cactus is tall and sculptural, while also needing minimal care. Beards and Daisies advises that “it can go a long time without water”. They suggest: “Just keep it in a bright spot and dust it now and then.”
Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra Elatior)
True to its name, this tough plant can withstand poor light conditions, irregular watering, and temperature changes “without a problem”, according to Beards and Daises.
Rubber Plant (Ficus Elastica)
With its bold, glossy leaves, this plant is a great, easy way to make a statement. Beards and Daisies says it “tolerates low light and doesn’t need constant watering.”