Plants make a home feel alive, but not everyone has the time or memory to look after fussy varieties. Luckily, some plants thrive on a little neglect.
The hardy eight
- Snake plant: happy in low light and dry soil.
- Pothos: trails beautifully and tells you when it is thirsty.
- ZZ plant: glossy leaves that tolerate dark corners.
- Spider plant: fast-growing and easy to share.
- Rubber plant: bold leaves and steady growth.
- Peace lily: droops dramatically, then recovers after watering.
- Jade plant: a succulent that likes a sunny sill.
- Cast iron plant: the name says it all.
The most common mistake
More houseplants die from too much water than too little. Check the soil with a finger before watering; if the top few centimetres are still damp, wait.
Start with one or two, learn their rhythm, and your collection will grow naturally.
