26 Common House Plants That Are Perfect for Every Home

Houseplants are an excellent addition to any home, offering a range of benefits beyond their aesthetic appeal. And there’s nothing better than choosing a tried and tested common house plant to beautify your home.

Not only do they purify the air by removing toxins, but they can also reduce stress, increase productivity, and improve overall well-being.

From low-maintenance succulents to towering fiddle leaf figs, there is a houseplant to suit every taste and level of experience.

In this article we will explore some of the 26 most common houseplants and provide tips on how to care for them, so you can enjoy the benefits of indoor gardening and create a lush, vibrant living space.

Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or just starting out, read on to discover the perfect houseplant for your home.

1. Snake Plant

Botanical Name: Sansevieria trifasciata

Sun Exposure: Ranges from direct to indirect sunlight

Soil Type: Well-draining, potting soil mix.

Homeowners who want a low-maintenance houseplant often choose the snake plant. Snake plants have distinctive foliage that resembles a patterned sword. Snake plants are great houseplants because they are almost impossible to kill.

The snake plant can be grown in virtually any climate. They can withstand prolonged periods of drought and direct sunlight, but will thrive in well-draining soil.

2. Pothos

Botanical Name: Epipremnum aureum

Sun Exposure: Bright but indirect sunlight

Soil Type: Well-draining, soilless mix.

Pothos, aka devil’s ivy, is a vine with medium-sized, heart-shaped leaves that is remarkably resilient. Although it can survive very low light, it prefers bright indirect light. Moreover, most types of pothos prefer weekly watering and thrive in most types of soils and fertilizers.

Despite its low maintenance requirements, this plant is very resilient. Frequent pruning will help it maintain a moderate size, but because it’s so simple to care for, it’s another excellent option for beginner gardeners. This is the ideal houseplant to grow in a hanging basket as well!

3. Chinese Money Plant

Botanical Name: Pilea peperomioides

Sun Exposure: Bright but indirect light

Soil Type: Well-draining, All purpose soil

Consider including this gorgeous Chinese money plant in your collection of houseplants if you’d like to bring more wealth and prosperity into your life. It’s said to attract both!

The Chinese money plant, also known as Pilea peperomioides, is a low-maintenance plant that is simple to grow and is suitable even for inexperienced gardeners. It has huge flat green leaves that resemble pancakes. It produces beautiful white flowers that grow on pink stems.

It’s easy to grow the Chinese money plant as a houseplant, and it’s also one of the reasons why it’s one of the most common houseplants out there. Its green foliage can withstand some sun exposure but thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. The plant should be allowed to dry out almost completely between waterings.

4. ZZ Plant

Botanical Name: Zamioculcas Zamiifolia

Sun Exposure: Partial shade

Soil Type: Well, draining, acidic soil mix

The ZZ plant, also known as the Zamioculcas Zamiifolia gem plant or Zanzibar gem, is a good example of a hardy common house plant. These exotic plant species have dark green foliage supported by thick woody stems.

This stunning, common house plant is known for its spotless, waxy leaves that feature a deep green color which many mistaken believe is artificial.

The ZZ plant can grow in a wide range of temperatures. They can withstand a few weeks of neglect and thrive in areas with low lighting.

5. Philodendron

Botanical Name: Philodendron hederaceum

Sun Exposure: Low to bright sunlight

Soil Type: Acidic, well, draining, potting soil.

Philodendrons are incredibly popular and common houseplants. They are well-known for their heart-shaped leaves that have a leathery feel to them. They are native to the tropical parts of Central America.

The heart-leaf philodendron’s ability to thrive in different environments is a major plus. They thrive in low light but may also tolerate bright light. You should water them once weekly.

6. Spider Plant

Botanical Name: Chlorophytum comosum

Sun Exposure: Bright but filtered light

Soil Type: Well-draining, all-purpose soil.

The spider plant, or Chlorophytum comosum, is an interesting houseplant. It gets its name from its plantlets, which look like dangling spider legs. Spider plants are simple indoor houseplants that require little care.

They thrive in bright, filtered light, so limit your exposure to direct sunlight. Since they prefer moist but well-draining soil, watering should be done to a moderate level. Make sure that the soil is well-aerated for the healthiest possible plant.

7. African Mask

Botanical Name: Alocasia

Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect light

Soil Type: Loose, well-draining potting mix

African Mask, also known as Alocasia or Elephant ears, is a stunning houseplant that’s prized for its unique looks.

The broad heart or arrowhead-shaped leaves of this stunning houseplant are textured and may even have flat or wavy edges. The distinctive cream color veining stands out dramatically against the dark green color of the leaves, making it a stunning feature in any house. 

African mask plants favor moderate temperatures, high levels of humidity, and indirect lighting. These plants grow rapidly, making them perfect for filling large areas. The average household variety grows to a height of two feet, while some particular types can grow up to fifteen feet. 

8. Peace Lilies

Botanical Name: Spathiphyllum

Sun Exposure: Low to bright, indirect sunlight

Soil Type: Moist but well-drained

When it comes to indoor house plants, peace lilies are among the best options out there. These attractive plants are wonderful in purifying the air in a room in addition to enhancing its aesthetic appeal.

These plants typically feature white ‘flowers’ and dark green foliage. What most people consider to be the flower is actually a leaf bract with a hood that grows over the flowers. They’ll produce more flowers in areas with more sunlight, but significantly fewer in areas with less lighting.

Peace lilies are also drought-tolerant, and you only need to check on them once a week or so. Moreover, they gain by lightly cleaning their leaves around once a year to remove dust. The incredibly minimal care needs make this a great house plant for beginners to keep in practically any setting.

9. Fiddle Leaf Fig

Botanical Name: Ficus lyrata

Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade

Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil.

The Fiddle-Leaf Fig, also known as ficus lyrata, is the most well-known species in the ficus genus. It belongs to the Moraceae family and is a flowering plant from West Africa. It has broad, green leaves that resemble fiddles.

Placed in a freestanding pot on the floor, a fiddle-leaf fig can reach a height of 6 feet or more, making it an impressive centerpiece for any area.

As an indoor plant, the fiddle-leaf fig thrives with direct sunlight exposure. They can also adjust to low-light conditions. Water them until the roots are dripping, then allow them to dry slightly.

10. English Ivy

Botanical Name: Hedera Helix

Sun Exposure: Bright but indirect sunlight

Soil Type: Well-draining, rich, loose soil.

English Ivy, aka Hedera helix, is a vining plant with gorgeous triangular leaves that grows quickly. As a trailing plant, it is supported by robust, sturdy stems with a trailing motion. The English ivy’s green umbrella-shaped flowers are one of its most appealing features.

Hedera helix thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. Water once a week, but only when the soil is practically dry.

11. Jade Plant

Botanical Name: Crassula ovata

Sun Exposure: Direct sunlight to partial shade

Soil Type: Well-draining, loose succulent soil mix

The lucky plant, also called the jade plant, is another popular houseplant. These succulents are among the simplest plants to grow. They have thin woody stems that support their small, green, fleshy leaves.

Jade plants, which are indigenous to South Africa, are commonly presented as housewarming presents since they are believed to bring their owners good luck, wealth, and prosperity.

Like most succulents, they are drought-tolerant and can go weeks without getting any water. Water them once every two to three weeks. Jade plants, once mature, can tolerate direct sunlight.

12. Ponytail Palm

Botanical Name: Beaucarnea recurvata

Sun Exposure: Full sun or bright, indirect light

Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy soil.

Ponytail palm is a common houseplant in the Asparagaceae family. It is also known as the elephant’s foot because of its thick, robust trunk. This succulent houseplant will give an exotic air to any home.

The ponytail palm doesn’t need to be watered frequently. This is due to the plant’s succulent nature, which allows it to store water in its stem or trunk. They can withstand bright direct sunshine.

13. Aloe Vera

Botanical Name: Aloe vera

Sun Exposure: Bright, direct sunlight

Soil Type: Sandy soil or a cactus potting mix

Aloe vera is one of the most popular and common houseplants worldwide. They require very little upkeep and are quite simple to grow. As a succulent of the desert variety, it appreciates bright light but requires minimal watering to remain healthy. They are good at filtering air, but they can be toxic to curious pets.

Aloe is distinguished from other plants by the presence of a thick gel within its leaves. The gel offers several skin benefits, ranging from killing bacteria to hydrating the skin. The gel also relieves burns, which makes it useful for anyone who spends a lot of time in the kitchen.

14. Rubber Plant

Botanical Name: Ficus elastica

Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect sunlight

Soil Type: Moist but well-drained

The rubber plant, also called the Ficus elastica, is a well-known houseplant with dark green leaves. These lustrous, striking leaves catch the eye of any onlooker. The rubber plant tree is a member of the Moraceae family and has aerial roots.

When grown indoors, they stay between 2 and 10 inches tall. This exotic house plant requires bright but indirect sunlight to thrive

15. Anthurium

Botanical Name: Anthurium spp.

Sun Exposure: Partial, bright indirect sunlight

Soil Type: Well-draining

Anthurium are flowering plants whose flowers are surrounded by a colorful spathe. Anthurium has a highly shiny, almost plastic-like appearance that, at first view, appears almost fake.

Anthurium likes to be watered often, but not every day. It also likes bright, indirect light. Plus Moreover, they enjoy high humidity, and if grown properly, they can bloom for the most of the year. It takes more work to take care of this plant than other common houseplants, so it may not be a good choice for people who are just starting out.

16. Wax Plant

Botanical Name: Hoya carnosa

Sun Exposure: Medium to bright, indirect light

Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or orchid mix

Wax plant, also known as Hoya carnosa, is a perennial vining house plant. It has a trailing growth pattern and can be grown indoors in hanging baskets. This stunning houseplant also produces fragrant and luminous pink flowers.

Hoyas can withstand some degree of neglect. Nevertheless, they just need to be watered once a week. They thrive in both partial shade and direct sunlight.

17. Calathea

Botanical Name: Calathea Sp.

Sun Exposure: Partial, shade

Soil Type: Loamy, moist, well-drained

Calatheas, also known as the Prayer Plant, is a unique house plant whose leaves open to the sunlight but close up when it gets darker. These plants move significantly more than most others, and you can even watch them change if you look at the right time. 

Calatheas are tropical plants that prefer warm, humid conditions. Water them on a regular basis to ensure that the soil is wet but not saturated. Make sure that they’re not kept in standing water as this can ruin your stunning houseplant. 

18. Weeping Fig

Botanical Name: Ficus Benjamina

Sun Exposure: Bright but indirect sunlight

Soil Type: Well-draining rich, soil mix

The weeping fig plant, also known as Ficus benjamina, is a stunning houseplant native to South East Asia that you’ll absolutely love. This plant features delicate flowers that look great and will definitely add beauty to your home. They are known as “weeping figs” because their leaves resemble tears.

Weeping figs require little watering. Maintain a weekly schedule. They thrive in bright but filtered sunshine and dislike extreme cold.

19. Swiss Cheese Plant

Botanical Name: Monstera adansonii

Sun Exposure: Bright but filtered sunlight

Soil Type: Well-draining, potting soil

Monstera adansonii is one of the most common and loved houseplants. They are highly valued for their distinctive foliage. Its leaves have a rich green color and are often heart-shaped. These holes all over the leaves make the plant look like Swiss cheese, hence the name.

Adansonii monstera prefers consistently moist, well-draining soil. They thrive when grown under bright, filtered, or indirect light.

20. Cast Iron Plant

Botanical Name: Aspidistra elatior

Sun Exposure: Bright but indirect sunlight

Soil Type: Loose, rich, well-draining acidic soil.

Cast Iron Plant, also known as Aspidistra elatior, lives up to its name by being a hardy plant. It is a stunning decorative plant that is nearly impossible to kill. Cast iron plants have beautiful long and stiff leaves. They can have yellow or white patterns on them.

Aspidistra elatior plants can handle being neglected for long periods of time. They can also survive in low-light conditions and practically any climate.

21. Chinese Evergreens

Botanical Name: Aglaonema

Sun Exposure: Partial, full sun

Soil Type: Well-draining

Chinese evergreens are native to the rainforests of southeast Asia, where they thrive in the high humidity and little direct sunlight provided by the canopy above. The plant prefers indirect light but needs significantly less light than most others. They thrive in warm places, so make sure to keep them away from any open doors or windows.

Flowers are uncommon, typically emerging as pale green flowers that don’t stand out as much. But, you should cut back on the flowers before they develop into berries, as the latter will quickly consume your plant’s resources.

22. Lucky Bamboo

Botanical Name: Dracaena sanderiana

Sun Exposure: Indirect moderate to low sunlight

Soil Type: Sandy loam or cactus and succulent potting mix

Lucky Bamboo, also known as Dracaena sanderiana, makes a charming addition to any small space thanks to its capacity to grow in water and the flexible stems that may be woven into grids or braids.

Unlike bamboo that grows outdoors, lucky bamboo stops growing when the top is cut, making it simple to care for. Grow in low-light or artificial lighting conditions for the healthiest plant.

23. Asparagus Ferns

Botanical Name: Asparagus Aethiopicus

Sun Exposure: Full sun or light shade

Soil Type: Moist, loose, well-drained potting soil

Asparagus Fern is a beautiful bushy houseplant native to South African. Despite its name, it’s not strictly a fern or related to asparagus and is simple to grow which makes it a fantastic option for beginner gardeners.

It does not become too large for most homes, and the flattened, triangular leaves add an interesting element to any room. Water gently and frequently and provide it with indirect light for best results.

24. Christmas Cactus

Botanical Name: Schlumbergera bridgesii

Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect sun

Soil Type: Well-draining, rich soil

The Christmas cactus is a relatively slow-growing plant that can produce colorful blossoms during the winter months when other plants are dormant. Different hybrids have longer flowering seasons and richer color, and these are an excellent choice for beginners.

Christmas cactus does not handle drought as well as other cacti. The soil should be damp, but not to the point of being soggy. Although you should place this plant somewhere with a temperature of about 55 degrees to start flowering, humidity is helpful for it.

25. Moth Orchid

Botanical Name: Phalaenopsis Sp.

Sun Exposure: Bright, indirect sunlight

Soil Type: Well-draining, orchid potting mix

The Moth orchid genus is a well-known group of epiphytic plants recognized for their unusual colors. They are small and compact and can be easily grown indoors. Moth orchids are typically low-maintenance plants.

Exotic plant roots must be soaked in water before being allowed to dry. This should be done once every seven days. It is best to keep the lighting bright but filtered.

26. Dumb Canes

Botanical Name: Dieffenbachia Spp.

Sun Exposure: Low to partial shade

Soil Type: Rich, well-draining potting mix

Dumb canes, or Dieffenbachia, are beautiful and interesting house plants that will definitely win your heart. They can be grown indoors as houseplants and require little maintenance to thrive. They are known as “dumb canes” because of their cane-like stems and variegated leaves.

Keep children and pets away when growing dumb canes inside. They should be watered frequently and kept moist and not wet. They can survive in low-light conditions.

 

This originally appeared on Planet Natural.