Easy care houseplants that will tolerate some neglect

Caring for indoor plants can feel like a juggling act – balancing light, water, and temperature to keep your greenery thriving. But if you’re looking for low-maintenance options, some plants are tougher than others. Here are three hardy houseplants that will tolerate a bit of neglect and still thrive in your home.

Variegated Sansevieria (Snake Plant)

Also known as Snake Plant, Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, or Saint George’s Sword, the variegated Sansevieria is a striking plant with tall, upright leaves that boast rippling green patterns. It’s not just good-looking - this plant is a powerhouse in low-maintenance care. Snake Plants are incredibly adaptable, tolerating both low and bright light. Plus, they’re drought-tolerant, so forgetting to water occasionally won’t faze them.

Sansevieria is also famous for its air-purifying properties, even making NASA’s list of top air-cleaning plants. Uniquely, it releases oxygen at night, making it an excellent choice for bedrooms to improve air quality and potentially help with sleep.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera does double duty in your home, offering both aesthetic appeal and practical use. Its fleshy, spiky leaves create an eye-catching display, and the gel inside has soothing properties that can be used for minor burns and skin irritation. Like other succulents, Aloe stores water in its leaves, which means it’s highly drought tolerant. Just be sure to let the top third of the soil dry out between waterings to avoid root rot.

This sun-loving plant prefers bright, indirect light but can adapt to lower light conditions. Aloe vera also improves air quality, making it a healthy and resilient addition to your space.

Monstera Deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant)

For a more dramatic look, the Monstera deliciosa is a bold choice. Its large, glossy leaves develop iconic holes as they mature, giving it the nickname "Swiss Cheese Plant." Despite its tropical appearance, this plant is easy to care for and forgiving of less-than-ideal conditions. It thrives in bright to medium indirect light but can tolerate lower light as well.

Monstera prefers its soil to dry out between waterings, so aim for a watering schedule of every 1–2 weeks. It handles normal household humidity well, but occasional misting will keep it looking its best. With a bit of training, you can encourage this plant to climb or fill out larger spaces, making it a versatile option for any room.

These three plants – Sansevieria, Aloe Vera, and Monstera Deliciosa – are perfect for anyone looking for houseplants that can thrive with minimal effort. Whether you’re a novice or simply have a busy schedule, these beauties will reward you with lush growth and cleaner air, even if you occasionally forget about them.