Tried and True Beginner Friendly Plants

Who decided succulents were “beginner plants,” anyway?

Honestly—who said that? Because it wasn’t me.

I’ve been doing this plant thing for a while now, and succulents and I do not get along. If you’re new to plants, succulents are often less forgiving, not more. So let’s retire that myth.

Instead, here are true beginner-friendly houseplants—plants that survive real life.

Pothos

If I had to trust a plant with a toddler, it would be this one. Pothos are incredibly resilient and almost impossible to kill.

Care Basics

• Water: About once weekly
• Light: Low to bright indirect (avoid complete darkness)
• Difficulty: Very easy/forgiving
• Bonus: Helps filter indoor pollutants
• Pet Safety: ❌ Toxic to dogs and cats

ZZ Plant

This is one of the most tolerant houseplants you can own. Perfect for busy people or new plant parents.

Care Basics

• Water: Every 2–4 weeks
• Light: Very low to bright indirect
• Difficulty: Very easy
• Bonus: Thrives on neglect
• Pet Safety: ❌ Toxic to dogs and cats

Snake Plant

(Mother-in-Law’s Tongue)

A classic for a reason—snake plants handle almost anything you throw at them.

Care Basics

• Water: Every 2–4 weeks
• Light: Low to bright indirect
• Difficulty: Very easy
• Bonus: Known for air-purifying qualities
• Pet Safety: ❌ Toxic to dogs and cats

Monstera

(Swiss Cheese Plant)

A statement plant that brings structure and style without being high maintenance.

Care Basics

• Water: Weekly, once the top soil dries
• Light: Medium to bright indirect
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Bonus: Iconic leaf shape, adapts well indoors
• Pet Safety: ❌ Toxic to dogs and cats

Spider Plant

If you want a plant that produces endless babies, this is the one.

Care Basics

• Water: Weekly
• Light: Low to bright indirect
• Difficulty: Very easy
• Bonus: Produces plantlets, helps purify air
• Pet Safety: ✅ Non-toxic to pets

Rubber Tree

(Ficus elastica)

Bold leaves, minimal fuss. A great option if you want something larger but still beginner-friendly.

Care Basics

• Water: Weekly (do not allow soil to fully dry)
• Light: Bright indirect or partial shade
• Difficulty: Easy
• Bonus: Large glossy leaves, strong visual impact
• Pet Safety: ❌ Toxic to pets

Final Thought

If succulents have made you feel like a “bad plant parent,” it’s not you—it’s the plant. Start with forgiving houseplants that want to live, and build your confidence from there.

Every plant journey looks different. We’re here when you need guidance.

Please stay tuned for more weekly blogs from The Potting Bench.