10 Easy Houseplants That Can Survive Your Busy Schedule

Life gets busy, and plants shouldn’t add stress. You want greenery at home without the fuss—no daily watering or finicky care routines.

Good news: some houseplants thrive on neglect. Whether you’re new to plants or just short on time, these 10 easy picks survive missed waterings and dim corners. They’ll keep your space fresh while fitting into your packed schedule.

Snake Plant (Sansevieria)

The snake plant is the ultimate low-maintenance houseplant. It tolerates low light, irregular watering, and even dusty neglect. Those upright, patterned leaves add structure to any room while quietly filtering indoor air.

You only need to water it every few weeks—wait until the soil dries out completely. Bright indirect light helps it grow taller, but it survives in shade too. Just note it’s toxic to pets, so keep it out of their reach.

ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas Zamiifolia)

That shiny, waxy ZZ plant in the corner? It’s practically foolproof. While it’s toxic to pets (fair warning), everything else about it is beginner-friendly. The thick stems store water so well that you might go three weeks between waterings.

It grows happily in that dim office corner where other plants would sulk. Those polished-looking leaves stay dust-resistant, too—no need for special cleaners. Just wipe them gently with a damp cloth when they need it.

Pothos (Epipremnum Aureum)

Pothos vines grow faster than you’d expect from such an undemanding plant. Their heart-shaped leaves keep coming no matter where you put them—bookshelves, bathrooms, or that awkward corner by the TV.

Water them when the leaves start to droop, and they’ll perk right up. These plants root easily in water too, so you can share cuttings with friends. Keep them up high if you have pets, since the leaves aren’t pet-safe.

Spider Plant (Chlorophytum Comosum)

Spider plants practically grow themselves while putting on quite a show. Those arching green-and-white striped leaves keep multiplying, and before you know it, you’ll have baby plantlets dangling from long stems.

They’re happy in most light conditions and only ask for water when their soil feels dry. Unlike many houseplants, they are completely safe around pets. Try using filtered water if you notice brown leaf tips—they’re a bit sensitive to chemicals in tap water.

Prayer Plant (Maranta Leuconeura)

Watch this one put on a show every evening when its leaves fold up like praying hands – nature’s own bedtime routine. Those striking leaves with red veins and dark spots brighten up any room without demanding too much attention. It prefers consistent moisture but won’t throw a fit if you miss a watering. Just keep it out of direct sunlight, which might fade its vibrant patterns.

Aloe Vera Plant

That plump aloe plant on your windowsill does double duty—it looks good while standing ready for minor burns and cuts. Its thick leaves store water so well that you might only water it every few weeks. Just be careful with pets around it, as the gel might be helpful for humans, but it isn’t safe for animals to eat. Break off a leaf tip when needed, and you’ve got nature’s first-aid kit.

Monstera Deliciosa

Those dramatic split leaves make Monstera the showstopper of any room, yet it’s surprisingly low-maintenance. It grows happily in regular indoor light, stretching out new perforated leaves when it’s content. Water it when the top few inches of soil feel dry—usually every week or two. While toxic to pets, its vertical growth habit means you can keep it out of reach. Give it a moss pole to climb, and watch those iconic leaves get even bigger over time.

Dieffenbachia Plant

With its striking variegated leaves, dieffenbachia adds bold texture to any space while asking little in return. Water when the top inch of soil dries out, typically every 7-10 days. It adapts well to medium or bright indirect light, though its leaf patterns show best with more illumination. While toxic if eaten, its upright growth makes it easy to place safely on high shelves or plant stands. Mature plants can reach 5-6 feet tall, developing woody stems.

Rubber Tree Plant (Ficus Elastica)

Those glossy, oversized leaves make the rubber tree a natural statement piece for any room. It grows well in bright, indirect light but will tolerate lower light too—expect slower growth. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, usually every 7-10 days. Wipe the leaves occasionally to keep them shiny and dust-free. With time, this easygoing plant can grow tall enough to become a permanent part of your decor.

Chinese Evergreen

Chinese evergreen proves you don’t need perfect conditions for a thriving houseplant. Its striking silver-patterned leaves brighten up dim corners where other plants might struggle. Water it when the soil feels dry—usually every couple of weeks. While it grows faster in brighter spots, it adapts well to low-light offices or bedrooms. Some believe it brings good fortune, but you’ll feel lucky having such an undemanding plant that still looks polished.

Ready to Bring Home Your New Plant Pal?

Busy lives deserve greenery too. Any of these 10 tough plants will thrive with your schedule, not against it. Pick one that catches your eye – they’re all ready to grow with minimal fuss. Start small if you’re new to plants. A single snake plant or pothos can make all the difference. Before long, you might find yourself making room for another.