Low Maintenance Indoor Plants

Houseplants can do a lot for your home. They’re serious mood boosters. And if you’re a little design-challenged, a trusty potted plant is a cheap and easy way to fill space beautifully. But did you know that our leafy friends are also powerful filters that purify the air around us? In fact, several studies have been conducted showing that certain plants can rid a room of up to 89 percent of harmful VOCs like formaldehyde and xylene.

Check out these varieties that are practically indestructible, no matter how black your thumbs.

Ponytail palm - Despite the name and appearance, ponytail palms aren’t actually palm trees (the plant falls somewhere in the bonsai variety). What these miniature trees are is hardy. A ponytail palm can live for years in the same pot and doesn’t want a lot of your time. It just needs bright light and a weekly watering when the soil is dry.

Ficus - Essentially the official houseplant of the ’70s, the ficus has been out of favor for a while, but it is making a comeback. This indoor tree has shiny leaves to add cheer to any indoor space. Its stems can be braided for a tidy topiary effect we love

Dracaena - Dracaenas have a tropical feel and an easy approach to maintenance. Some sunlight is best (but many survive in low-light offices); that and regular potting soil and the occasional watering are all you need to keep this hardy plant growing.

Bird’s nest fern - This fern doesn’t look like your typical feathery houseplant. The bird’s nest fern has thick, wavy leaves and a sturdy appearance. The plant will grow best in dimmer, indirect light and can tolerate a few missed water sessions, but you will need to fertilize the soil a couple of times a year to get the best results.

Phalaenopsis orchid - Most gardening newbies steer clear of orchids. But you shouldn’t! Phalaenopsis orchids are the easiest of the bunch to grow. Most come pre planted in bark or moss and don’t need to be fertilized. Water once a week by sticking the plant under the tap and letting the water drain through the pot. Put the orchid in a low light area, and you’re good to go!

Aloe - Aloe has a ton of uses (namely, soothing the pain after we accidentally grab a hot pan), but this medical aid can double as a beautiful decor addition. Potted and left to grow, aloe will get huge and look really cool. Pot in cacti-specific soil (available at any gardening center), aim for indirect light, and water infrequently (the soil should be completely dry before you water again).