Snake plant
One of the hardiest houseplants around.
- Doesn’t mind dark rooms or dry air.
- Water every 3–4 weeks (if you remember).
- Looks neat and tidy with no trimming needed.
Peace lily
Glossy green leaves and elegant white flowers make this a go-to for brightening low-light spots.
- Grows in shade or low light.
- Only needs watering when the leaves start to droop.
- Recovers quickly after a refreshing drink.
ZZ plant
Striking, sculptural and almost indestructible.
- Happy in shady corners or near a window.
- Water once a month.
- Handles dry indoor air with ease.
Jade plant
A chunky-leafed succulent that thrives on being left alone.
- Bright light is nice, but it’ll cope with less.
- Forget to water? It probably didn’t even notice.
- Rarely needs repotting or attention.
Cast iron plant
Low-key and long-living. A great option for rooms that don’t get much sun.
- Grows well in deep shade.
- Water only when you’re sure the soil’s dry.
- Doesn’t mind dust, dry air or being ignored.
- Grows slowly, so zero-maintenance fuss.
Chinese evergreen
Lush leaves with silver, pink or red accents, adding colour without effort.
- Thrives in low to moderate light.
- Let the soil dry before watering again.
- Doesn’t like too much fuss.
Devil’s ivy (Pothos)
Fast-growing and super adaptable. Trails beautifully from shelves or pots.
- Low to bright light is fine.
- Water when the soil dries out.
- Grows fast, even in tricky spots.
Spider plant
A cheerful classic that is often described as ‘practically indestructible’!
- Likes indirect light.
- Water when dry.
- Great in hanging pots or on shelves.
Speckled cast iron plant
Just as tough as the original, with starry, speckled leaves for something a little different.
- Handles low light and dry air.
- Needs little watering.
- Great for darker corners.
Aloe vera
Beyond its medicinal properties, it’s a low-maintenance succulent.
- Bright indirect to direct sunlight.
- Water every 3 weeks or when the soil is dry.
- Make sure the container has good drainage.
Gasteria
Compact and solid – perfect for beginners.
- Copes well in low light
- Needs watering once a month, max
- Doesn’t attract pests or need pruning
Crown of thorns
It’s a bit spiky – but it flowers for months with barely any care.
- Loves a sunny spot
- Rarely needs water
- Still blooming when others give up
What these plants don’t need
- Daily or even weekly watering
- High humidity or misting
- Special soil or fertiliser routine
- Constant pruning or repotting
- You to be a plant expert!