We’ve all been there. We’ve bought a plant or been given one as a gift, put it on the windowsill, watered it once and then forgotten about it. It’s only when we notice the yellowing leaves, dried soil and drooping mess of the plant that we realize we haven’t been taking as much care of it as we should have been. If you’re a forgetful gardener, but still love having plants in the home, we have the perfect list for you to go through where you are sure to find the ideal plant for your home.
1. Geranium
Typically grown outdoors as bedding plants, geraniums (Pelargonium spp.) are the perfect houseplants to have as they flower all year once placed in a sunny window. Look out for varieties that come in red, white, pink, orange or multi-colored blooms for your home. Most types of geraniums do well if they miss a watering or two. Buy your own from Plants for Shade.
2. Silver Jade
The silver jade plant (Crasula arborescens) is an easy household plant to maintain and is easy to recognise due to its silver green leaves that are often edged in reddish purple. Make sure to place it where it can receive maximum sunlight. Buy your own from Gardens4You.
3. Desert Rose
The spectacular desert rose (Adenium obesum) shows off its thick grey stems, leathery dark green leaves, and bold pink, red, or white petals in spring. It makes a lovely houseplant and requires a spot in full sunlight. Buy your own from Spalding Bulb.
4. Aloe
No list would be complete without aloe (Aloe Vera) added to it. This lovely spiky succulent with its toothed leaves and grey-green aloe has earned it a place in many households due to its ability to soothe skin and help burns heal. It’s also easy to grow. Buy your own from Victoriana Nursery.
5. Burro’s Tail
The distinctive burro’s tail (Sedum morganianum) bears succulent grey-green leaves that overlap on trailing stems. It is this that creates the tail-like effect. These make wonderful houseplants and are perfect for those who want a plant with little maintenance. Buy your own from Shoot Gardening.
6. Pothos
The pothos (Epipremnum trebie) is one of the most common houseplants in the home. It’s quick growing leaves tolerates low light levels and doesn’t mind drying out a bit too. Buy your own from Indoor Plants.
7. Cast Iron Plant
As the name would suggest of cast iron plant (Aspidistra elatior) it is almost indestructible, tolerating low levels of water, light and humidity. While it will tolerate neglect, if you give it a little TLC it will reward you with a lovely plant. Buy your own from House of Plants.
8. Snake Plant
Native to Africa, snake plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) or what is also known as mother-in-law’s tongue has sword-like leaves which can be found with shades of silver, white or cream on them. Buy your own from House to Home.
9. Dracaena
Also known as yucca or corn plant dracaena (Dracaena deremensis) is an easy going houseplant that tolerates a little neglect. Its colourful dark leaves bear bands of silver while it grows best in bright light. Buy your own from Funky Yukka.
