When it comes to choosing plants for your home or apartment, you have a lot of options.
But if you're looking for something that's easy to care for and will thrive with minimal input from you, then look no further than these 21 common house plants.
From succulents to ivy, these plants are all hardy and perfect for beginners or anyone who doesn't have a green thumb.
So if you're ready to add some life to your living space, read on for our list of the best common house plants that'll be sure to thrive in any environment.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Indoor Plants
When choosing plants for your indoor space, you'll need to take into account a variety of factors such as light, temperature, humidity, space, and toxicity. Not all plants are suitable for every environment, so it's important to do your research before making a purchase.
Let’s take a look at each of the considerations:
Light Requirements
Different plants have varying light needs, from low light to bright indirect light. Make sure to choose a plant that will thrive in the level of light available in your space.
Temperature
Some plants prefer cooler temperatures while others thrive in warmer environments. Be mindful of where you place your plants and make sure they are not subject to drafts or extreme temperature fluctuations.
Atmospheric Humidity
Certain plants, such as ferns and tropical plants, prefer higher levels of humidity. If your indoor space is on the dry side, consider getting a humidifier or placing your plants near a water source to provide extra moisture.
Available Space
It's important to assess the size and layout of your indoor space before choosing plants. Make sure to leave room for the plant to grow and avoid overcrowding by selecting smaller varieties or opting for hanging plants if space is limited.
Toxicity to humans and pets
Some plants can be harmful to humans and pets if ingested, so it's important to do your research and choose non-toxic varieties. If you have pets or young children in the household, consider avoiding plants such as philodendrons or aloe vera.
Alternatively, keep them away in hanging planters as much as possible. Or, spray your plants with Bodhi Dog Bitter Lemon Spray which is effective in discouraging your pets from chewing on the plants.
Overall, taking the time to properly assess your indoor environment and choose the right plants for your space will lead to a thriving and enjoyable indoor garden.
Regardless of your circumstances, this list of common houseplants will have the right set of plants for you.
List of 21 Common House Plants with Pictures
1. Spider Plant
One of the reasons why spider plants are so popular is they are very easy to care for.
Besides, they don't require a lot of water or fertilizer, and they can tolerate a wide range of light conditions. These plants are also very tolerant of neglect. So if you're not the most attentive plant parent, they may be a good choice for you.
As a bonus, are known to remove harmful toxins such as carbon monoxide and formaldehyde from the air, making them ideal for use in homes or offices.
Furthermore, spider plants are also very versatile and can be used in a variety of ways. They can be planted in pots or hanging baskets, and allowed to trail over the edge of a bookshelf, or table. No matter how you choose to use them, spider plants are sure to add interest and beauty to your space.
Here are great guides on spider plants:
· Brown Tips on Spider Plants? Here’s What to Do
· 3 Best Methods for Propagating Spider Plants at Home
2. Philodendron
The most common philodendron is the heartleaf philodendron, also known as the sweetheart plant.
This plant is native to tropical regions of South America and is often used as a houseplant. The heartleaf philodendron is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for and does not require much light or water.
The heartleaf philodendron is a popular choice for indoor plants since it's very tolerant of low light conditions. The plant can also tolerate periods of drought, making it an ideal choice for those who do not want to worry about watering their plants regularly.
Other rare but breathtaking cultivars of philodendron to add to your collection include the ‘Pink Princess’ philodendron, ‘Prince of Orange, and ‘White Princess’.
3. Fiddle Leaf Fig
The fiddle leaf fig (Ficus lyrata) is a species of fig native to western Africa. It’s an evergreen tree that can grow up to 20 meters tall in the native setting.
The leaves are large, leathery, and deeply lobed. Besides, the plant is known for its glossy leaves that are shaped like a violin.
Fiddle leaf fig is a popular houseplant since it can thrive in both bright and low light conditions. For these reasons, it’s often used as an ornamental plant in public spaces such as shopping malls and airports.
Popular Article - Brown Spots on Fiddle Leaf Fig? Here’s How to Treat It
4. African violet
African violets (Saintpaulia) are small flowering plants that are native to Tanzania and Kenya in Africa. They grow well in bright indirect sunlight.
The plant's vibrant purple or pink flowers add a pop of color to any room. Keep soil evenly moist and water from the bottom to prevent potential fungal diseases.
Nevertheless, with proper care, these plants make a beautiful addition to any indoor space.
Here are my top guides on African violets:
- The African Violet Bible: How to Grow Saintpaulias that Bloom 365 Days
- Is your African Violet Drooping Leaves? Here’s Why
- Complete Beginners Guide to African Violet Care
- African Violet Supplies
5. Monstera
Monstera, also known as the Swiss cheese plant, is a tropical plant that can grow up to 20 meters tall in its native habitat. The most notable cultivar is Monstera siltepecana.
These plants are known for their large, perforated leaves (fenestrations) that become more distinct as they mature.
Monstera also benefits from humid conditions, so consider misting the leaves or placing them in a bathroom with high humidity levels.
It's also important for you to learn how to water your Monstera plants.
6. Pothos
Pothos, also known as the devil’s ivy, is a vine plant with heart-shaped leaves that can range in color from dark green to variegated shades of green, gold, yellow, and white streaks.
The plants require well-draining soil and regular watering but can tolerate periods of drought. It’s also easy to propagate by placing a cutting in water or potting mix until it develops roots.
If you want to learn more about pothos including the most gorgeous varieties to choose from, below are my recommendations:
- How to Propagate Pothos without a Rooting Hormone.
- Pothos Plant Care: The Complete Beginners Guide (with pictures)
- Why Are Your Pothos Leaves Curling? (And What to Do)
- Hawaiian Pothos Care: Tips and Tricks That Work
- Satin Pothos: How to Grow & Care for Scindapsus pictus
- Cebu Blue Pothos Care: The Complete Beginners Guide
- Marble Queen Pothos: A Guide to Propagation and Care
7. Orchids
Orchids are beautiful flowering plants that come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. The Chinese money plant is common in most homes. It's easy to care for and does not require much light or water. They’re native to tropical regions and can be found growing on trees or rocks in the wild.
Orchids have a reputation for being difficult to care for, but with proper knowledge and technique, they can thrive as houseplants.
Popular Article - How to Care for your Orchids Indoors.
8. Aglaonema
The Aglaonema, or Chinese Evergreen, is a popular houseplant that is known for its striking foliage. The plant is native to tropical regions of Asia and can be found in a variety of colors, including green, silver, and red.
While Aglaonemas are generally low-maintenance plants, there are a few things to keep in mind in order to keep them healthy. It is important to water the plants regularly, as they will quickly dry out if they do not have enough moisture.
Besides, it's important to fertilize the plants every few weeks during the growing season in order to provide them with the nutrients they need to thrive.
Keep in mind that there are a ton of Aglaonema varieties to choose from.
9. Chinese Money Plant
The Chinese money plant is a popular houseplant. People usually have it in their homes because it's easy to care for and does not need much light or water. It also has pretty leaves that come in different colors.
It's therefore, no surprise that the plant holds an Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society.
Also, one of the best things about Chinese money plants is that they are very easy to propagate. All you need to do is either break off a stem or a leaf and replant it in the soil. With time, it will grow into its own plant!
Whether you're looking for an attractive houseplant with low maintenance needs or simply want to learn more about how to care for Chinese money plants, you'll love this article - Are You Unlucky with Houseplants? Try Chinese Money Plant and this one.
10. Peace Lily
The peace lily is a beautiful flowering plant that can be easily grown indoors. With its glossy green leaves and stunning white flowers, the peace lily makes a lovely addition to any home or office.
Whether you're looking for tips on how to care for peace lilies, or simply want to add some beautiful greenery to your home, the peace lily is a great option!
So, if you're looking for an easy-to-care-for houseplant that will brighten up your home, consider the peace lily. With its low-maintenance needs and stunning white flowers, it is the perfect choice for any indoor space.
11. Croton
Croton plants are popular houseplants that are prized for their vibrant, colorful leaves. These tropical plants require plenty of sunlight and regular watering, but with the right care, they can make a wonderful addition to any indoor space.
If you're looking for an eye-catching houseplant that is easy to care for, look no further than the croton. With its vibrant leaves in shades of green, yellow, orange, and red, this plant is a great choice for homes and offices alike.
12. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a succulent with thick, pointed leaves that contain a gel-like substance often used in skin care products and remedies.
You can easily propagate the plants by removing offshoots from the mother plant and planting them in their own pot.
The gel inside aloe vera leaves has many benefits for the skin, but the plant is toxic to humans and pets if ingested, so it’s important to keep it out of reach.
Recommended read: 9 Common Aloe Vera Plant Care Problems
13. Snake Plant
The snake plant is a popular houseplant that is known for its toughness and easy care. It can thrive in a variety of lighting conditions, from bright sun to low light, making it a great choice for homes and offices alike.
Snake plants are also beneficial to the air quality in your home, removing toxins such as formaldehyde from the air. This makes them a popular choice for people with allergies or asthma.
So, if you're looking for an easy-to-care-for houseplant that will improve the air quality in your home, consider the snake plant. With its low-maintenance needs and attractive foliage, it is the perfect choice for any indoor space.
Begin by learning the 5 Popular Methods for Propagating Snake Plant.
14. Jade Plant
A jade plant is a succulent with dark green, fleshy leaves. It is native to South Africa and grows best in sunny, dry conditions. In addition to its beautiful, lush foliage, the jade plant is also known for its long-lived nature and hardiness.
Some popular varieties of the jade plant include Crassula ovata "Tricolor" and Crassula ovata "Hobbit", both of which feature unique variegated leaves.
Jade plants are popular houseplants that are prized for their attractive foliage and ease of care. They require little water, making them an excellent choice for people with busy lifestyles or who tend to neglect houseplants.
Here's our top post on how to propagate jade plants from cuttings.
15. Parlor Palm
The parlor palm is an indoor palm with long, slender leaves that grow in clusters at the top of the plant. The leaves are dark green and glossy and give the plant a lush, tropical appearance.
As an indoor plant, the parlor palm requires relatively little care and can thrive in a variety of conditions. It is an excellent choice for people who want a low-maintenance houseplant that doesn't require a lot of sunlight or water.
Parlor palms are also popular due to their ability to remove toxins from the air, making them a great choice for homes and offices where indoor air quality is important.
Learn more on how to grow and care for Parlor Palm.
16. Bromeliads
Bromeliads are a diverse group of tropical plants that are prized for their colorful blooms and lush foliage. There are over 3,000 different species of bromeliads, making them one of the largest plant families in the world.
They require very little water and can grow in both sunny and shady locations. Bromeliads also come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, making them a perfect addition to any home or office.
The most popular type of bromeliad is the pineapple plant, which is known for its large, spiny leaves and vibrant yellow flowers.
Other popular varieties include the Guzmania plant and the Vriesea plant, both of which feature showy blooms in shades of red, orange, and yellow.
Here is everything you need to know about growing bromeliads.
17. Umbrella Plant
The Umbrella Plant is a popular houseplant that is known for its large, umbrella-shaped leaves. The plant is native to tropical regions of Asia and Africa and can grow up to 6 feet tall.
Umbrella plants are easy to care for and require very little water, making them a great choice for people who are new to gardening or who have busy lifestyles. In addition to its attractive foliage, this plant is also known for its ability to remove toxins from the air and improve indoor air quality.
18. Ivy
Ivy, also known as Hedera, is a popular houseplant that is known for its lush, trailing foliage and fast growth rate. It can be grown either indoors or outdoors, depending on the variety, and requires little water and sunlight to thrive.
Typically grown in hanging planters or as a groundcover plant, ivy is an excellent choice for gardeners looking for a low-maintenance plant that adds interest and texture to any space.
Besides its attractive foliage, ivy is also known for its ability to remove harmful toxins from the air, making it a great choice for homes and offices where indoor air quality is important.
19. Lucky Bamboo
Lucky bamboo is a type of plant that is often used as decoration in homes. It has long, green leaves and can grow pretty tall.
You don't have to water it or give it a lot of sunlight, which makes it easy to care for. Some people believe that lucky bamboo brings good luck to your home, so you might want to get one for yourself!
20. Dumb Cane Plant
The dumb cane plant, also known as Dieffenbachia, is a popular houseplant that is prized for its vibrant foliage and ease of care.
It has large green leaves with striking white or yellow markings and grows quickly, making it an excellent choice for gardeners looking for a low-maintenance indoor plant.
You may also be interested in learning how to grow and care for mass cane plants.
21. Ferns
Ferns are popular houseplants that are known for their lush, feathery foliage and ability to absorb toxins from the air.
There are hundreds of different types of ferns, ranging in size from miniature plants to large floor-covering varieties.
Here are some popular articles on ferns:
- How to Save a Dying Staghorn Fern Fast!
- Heart Leaf Fern: How to Grow and Care for Hemionitis arifolia
Conclusion
With so many houseplants to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which ones are right for you.
However, by taking into consideration the amount of sunlight and water your home receives, as well as the type of climate you live in, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect plants for your space.
With a little bit of research, you’re sure to find the ideal common house plants for your home.
And, I sure hope today's post was a good start for you!