There has been a bit of plant envy all over social media. (Seriously. I can't scroll through any of my feeds without seeing a white wall filled with plants.) Aesthetic. It's made me want to decorate my entire room with every plant I can find. Unfortunately, I am the laziest person to ever walk this earth. I literally look at these photos and think, "I can't take care of plants, I can't even take care of myself." So I did some research and there are, in fact, plants that thrive on neglect.
Praise Jesus. Plants that are me.
So here are some botanicals that even black thumbs can keep alive:
1. The Zamioculcas Zamiifolia
Zamioculcas fits just about every need of what a new indoor plant introduction should be. They handle low light, are tough under indoor conditions and only need to be watered once every 10-20 days. The "ZZ" has a natural shine to it, but that's not the best part. The best part of the "ZZ" may not be its toughness, or low light ability or low water requirements – but no insect problems. Or none that anyone has been able to identify.
2. The Silver Philodendren (AKA the Sweetheart Plant)
Looking for a jungle vibe but don't have the space for a large floor plant? Consider the Silver Philodendron. Its heart-shaped leaves and iridescent glow is one of my personal favorites. The vines can grow over 10-feet long, giving you garlands of greenery, which can be trained along small nails, fishing line, or wire, to frame your walls or windows. Low to medium light (or just a little morning sun!) is best for it and you only have to water it once every 5-10 days.
3. The Clivia Miniata
Clivias are one of the few plants that bloom in winter and in lower light. Bright, indirect light is best for these beauties. Plus, these plants are virtually pest- and blemish-free, which make them perfect for those who want greenery and color without the maintenance required by most indoor flowering plants. However, be careful with these! It contains small amounts of lycorine, making it poisonous.
4. The Sansevieria
Can you believe this archaic beast is part of the lily family? Because of it's harsh shape, it is also known as the snake-plant. It can tolerate a range of light - from full to partial sun. This workhorse plant is great for tight spaces where you could use something lush to draw the eye up and out of a corner. It is actually when you pamper the Sansevieria that they perish. (Totally me and doesn't handle compliments well.) It tops the list as being the most tolerant of all decorative plants to survive the most unsuitable growing conditions, abuse and neglect a plant could receive. Basically, you have to work really hard to kill sansevieria. (Also me.)
5. The Sempervivum Tectorum
Quite possibly the smallest, but most gratifying indoor plant available, Sempervivum Tectorum (also known as "Hens-and-Chicks") constantly regenerate. Best in full sun, but tolerant of medium light, these succulents need water only when the top few inches of their soil is dry or when you start to see the bottom leaves shrivel up. Because these plants do not grow on a stem, they maintain a full appearance that is perfect for planting in a shallow bowl or a quarter-sized opening.
