Our Favourite Beginner-Friendly Houseplants (Even If You’ve Killed a Cactus)
Let’s face it: not everyone has a green thumb, and that’s okay. If you’ve ever overwatered a succulent, forgotten your watering schedule for weeks, or watched leaves mysteriously drop overnight – you’re not alone.
That’s why we created the Plant Killers Club at Urbane Eight. It’s a safe space for anyone who loves the idea of plants but has a track record of sending them to the compost pile a little too soon.
Ready to finally keep a plant alive?
Here are some of our favourite beginner-friendly houseplants that are resilient, forgiving, and perfect for adding greenery to your space without the stress. This is just a small list, so please check out our Plant Killers Collection on our website and see our wide variety of houseplants that are beginner friendly.
Aloe Vera
Why it’s beginner-friendly:
Aloe thrives on neglect. It stores water in its thick, spiky leaves and prefers if you forget about it sometimes.
Care Tips:
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Bright, indirect light (a sunny windowsill is perfect)
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Water only when soil is completely dry.
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Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix
Bonus: Aloe gel can soothe burns and skin irritations.
Air Plants (Tillandsia)
Why it’s beginner-friendly:
No soil needed. These unique plants absorb nutrients and moisture from the air.
Care Tips:
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Bright, indirect light
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Soak in water for 20–30 minutes every 7–10 days, then shake off excess
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Let them dry upside down to prevent rot
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Display anywhere: mounted on wood, in glass, or hanging
Cactus
Why it’s beginner-friendly:
The ultimate low-maintenance plant. Cacti thrive on minimal attention.
Care Tips:
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Needs direct sunlight (bright, hot windows are ideal)
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Water once every 2–4 weeks (even less in winter)
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Use gritty, fast-draining cactus soil
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Prefers dry environments with low humidity
Pothos
Why it’s beginner-friendly:
Often called “devil’s ivy” because it’s almost impossible to kill. It tolerates low light and irregular watering while growing beautiful, cascading vines.
Care Tips:
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Low to bright indirect light
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Water when the top inch of soil feels dry
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Grows well in standard potting mix with good drainage
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Easy to propagate in water to create new plants
Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Why it’s beginner-friendly:
Tolerant, adaptable, and stylish. It handles missed waterings and comes in beautiful colours and patterns.
Care Tips:
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Low to medium light
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Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry
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Tolerates dry air but enjoys some humidity here and there.
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Wipe leaves to keep them dust-free and healthy
Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
Why it’s beginner-friendly:
Also called Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, it’s nearly indestructible. Snake plants tolerate neglect, low light, and dry air with ease.
Care Tips:
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Low to bright indirect light (can handle low light corners)
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Water when soil is completely dry.
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Use well-draining soil and pots with drainage holes
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Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
Why it’s beginner-friendly:
The ZZ plant is known for its waxy, dark green leaves and its ability to thrive on almost complete neglect.
Care Tips:
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Low to bright indirect light
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Water when soil is completely dry.
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Tolerates low humidity and inconsistent watering
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Wipe leaves to keep them shiny and dust-free
🌱 Tips for People Who’ve Killed Plants Before
1. Water less. Overwatering is the number one houseplant killer.
2. Keep plants in a consistent spot. Moving them too often causes stress.
3. Use the right soil mix. Succulents and tropicals all need different blends.
4. Start small. Build confidence with one or two plants before filling your space with greenery.
5. Ask questions. We’re always here to help match you with the best plants for your home and lifestyle.
🛒 Join the Plant Killers Club at Urbane Eight
We created the Plant Killers Club just for you – stocked with easy care indoor plants. Whether you’re giving plants another shot or gifting to a friend with a self-proclaimed black thumb, we’ve got you covered
Explore the Plant Killers Club
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest houseplant to keep alive?
Some of the easiest houseplants to keep alive include the Snake Plant, ZZ Plant, and Pothos. These plants tolerate low light, irregular watering, and are very forgiving for beginners.
How often should I water my indoor plants?
Watering needs vary by plant type of plant and its environment. As a general rule:
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Succulents and cacti: Every 2–4 weeks
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Pothos, Snake Plant, ZZ Plant: When the top inch or two of soil feels dry
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Air plants: Soak every 7–10 days
Always check soil moisture before watering to avoid overwatering.
What are the best low maintenance plants for low light rooms?
The ZZ Plant and Snake Plant are top choices for low light rooms. Both thrive in indirect light or even shaded corners and require minimal watering.
Which plants are safe for pets?
Many beginner plants like Pothos, Snake Plant, and ZZ Plant are toxic if ingested by pets. If you’re looking for pet-safe options, consider Spider Plants, Boston Ferns, or Calathea varieties, but always confirm toxicity with reputable sources before purchasing.
Check out our blog about pet friendly plants.
What is the best soil for indoor houseplants?
Use well-draining potting soil suited to the plant type:
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Cacti & succulents: Gritty, cactus mix.
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Tropical plants (Pothos, ZZ, Snake Plant): Regular indoor potting mix with perlite or orchid bark mixed in for drainage
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Air plants: No soil required
How do I stop killing my plants?
Here are a few golden rules:
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Don’t overwater – most indoor plants prefer drying out a bit between waterings. use a moisture meter to help you if you struggle with this.
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Choose the right plant for your light conditions
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Start small with one or two plants to build confidence
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Use the right soil mix for each type
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Ask questions – we’re always here to help you succeed
Need More Help Choosing the Right Plant?
Visit our Plant Killers Club for personalized recommendations, easy care supplies, and plant options suited to your lifestyle.