by Marie Anne

Created on: August 17, 2009

Not everyone has a green thumb, and not all houseplants require one. Many houseplants are easy to grow and tolerant of those of us with a thumb that is more black than green. Here are my top ten picks of easy to grow houseplants:

Easy to Grow Houseplant #1 - Sansevieria
(also known as Snake Plant or Mother-in-Law's Tongue)
The Snake Plant is at the top of my personal list of favorite houseplants that are easy to grow. Many a Snake Plant has tolerated my severe neglect and continued to provide me with years of enjoyment.

Physical description: Long, slender leaves that grow upright, reaching 4 ft. Leaves may be solid dark green to variegated with yellow depending on variety.
Light: Adapts to most lighting conditions, but prefers partial to bright sunlight.
Water: Fairly drought tolerant. Let dry between waterings. Better to underwater than overwater.

Easy to Grow Houseplant #2 - Dieffenbachia
(also known as Dumb Cane)
The Dieffenbachia is another common houseplant that requires minimal care. Planted in a large basket, the Dieffenbachia is a nice addition to an empty corner of your living room.
Physical description: Large, oblong leaves with colors of the various types ranging from solid green to yellow or white with green edges. The Dieffenbachia can grow to 6 ft.
Light: Low to medium light
Water: Prefers moist soil and humidity. Do not let soil dry out completely.
Caution: Poisonous keep away from children and pets.

Easy to Grow Houseplant #3 Philodendron
The Philodendron is the perfect houseplant to fill in the space above your cabinets or shelves. It may also be trained to climb upright if potted with support.
Physical description: Shiny, heart-shaped leaves of solid green or variegated green and yellow.
Light: Low to bright light
Water: Allow to dry between waterings. Enjoys an occasional light misting.
Caution: Poisonous keep away from children and pets.

Easy to Grow Houseplant #4 Pothos
(also known as Devil's Ivy)
Often confused with the Philodendron, Pothos is a hearty houseplant that looks as lovely in a hanging basket as it does in a traditional pot.
Physical description: Heart shaped ivy that can trail up to 8 ft
Light: Low to bright light
Water: Do not overwater, prefers moderately dry soil
Caution: Poisonous keep away from children and pets

Easy to Grow Houseplant #5 Spider Plant
The Spider Plant is probably one of the most widely recognized houseplants, easily identified by the 'babies' it produces at the end of its long leaves. Perfect

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