6 Beginner-Friendly Plants to Start Your Collection

First-time plant parents can enjoy learning about plants stress-free with these easygoing varieties.

1. Peperomia obtusifolia

   Whether you choose a green or variegated variety, these “baby rubber trees” are known for their laid-back ways. They prefer bright, indirect light, but can survive in lower light as well. Because they’re part of the succulent family, they don’t need to be watered frequently.

2. Pothos

   Golden pothos, cebu blue, marble queen — you could cover a whole room in these vining beauties and never use the same kind twice. They’re also infamous for their easy care. It’ll even tell you when it’s thirsty by starting to look a little limp and wilted. What more could a new plant parent ask for?

3. Sansevieria

   These guys, also known as snake plants, basically thrive on neglect. They can grow in light or shade, don’t require much water or fertilizer, and actually like being a little root bound (meaning you don’t have to size up its pot). They come in a multitude of shapes, sizes, and colors, so you have plenty of aesthetic options in this plant type alone.

4. ZZ plants

   ZZ plants are known for their ability to survive in dark rooms or bright, indirect light, so you can stick one just about anywhere in your home. They have bulbs that grow underneath the soil where they store water, so they also don’t need a drink too terribly often. Just check with a finger and water when the top few inches of soil are fully dry.

5. Philodendron brasil

   This philodendron variety isn’t picky about the light it gets, its watering schedule, or the humidity of its air. You can grow it as a vining plant or give it a trellis to climb up. Just water as needed and dust the leaves off from time to time.

6. Ponytail palm

   If you would rather water your plant once a month and let it do the rest, you need a ponytail palm. These adorable, whimsical little trees store water in their trunks to use as needed. They’re great for beginners or those who travel often.