Plant BuddhaBeginner basics
Seven forgiving houseplants for first-timers
Everyone has a first plant, and the best one is the one that forgives you while you learn. These seven are famously tolerant.
1. Pothos
Trailing, glossy and nearly impossible to kill. It tells you when it's thirsty by drooping, then perks up soon after a drink. Handles lower light.
2. Snake plant
Upright, sculptural and happy to be ignored. Water only once the soil is fully dry, which in winter can mean every few weeks.
3. ZZ plant
Stores water in thick underground rhizomes, so it copes with neglect and dim rooms. A great office plant.
4. Spider plant
Cheerful, fast growing and it makes baby “spiderettes” you can pot up and share. Brown tips are common and usually just a sign of dry air or tap water minerals.
5. Philodendron (heartleaf)
A soft, vining classic that thrives in medium light and tells you clearly when it needs water.
6. Peace lily
Dramatically droops when thirsty, then bounces back. A kind teacher, and it even blooms in modest light.
7. Aloe vera
Likes bright light and a thorough dry-out between drinks. Great for a sunny windowsill.
Pets at home? Pothos, snake plants, ZZ plants, philodendron, peace lilies and aloe are all considered toxic if chewed by cats and dogs. Spider plants are generally listed as pet-safe. Check the ASPCA's plant list or ask your vet before bringing any plant home.
A tip for choosing
Pick the plant that suits the light you actually have, not the light you wish you had. A happy snake plant beats a struggling fiddle-leaf fig every time.