If you're someone who can't remember to water your plants for the life of you, don't worry. You're far from alone, and you do not have to give up on your dream of decorating your living space with gorgeous greenery. Luckily, there are plenty of drought-tolerant plants out there that thrive with minimal care and can withstand a bit of neglect, whether you're busy with work, a frequent traveler, or just tend to be a bit forgetful. From aloe plants to ZZ plants, here are 10 different drought-tolerant varieties that make being a plant parent much easier.
Scroll to find out the most drought-tolerant plants you can get for your home!
1. Aloe
Plants.com
Aloe vera is well-known for its soothing properties when it comes to sunburn. But this spiky succulent with thick, serrated leaves is also a low-maintenance indoor plant. It doesn't require frequent watering. In fact, it's actually best to let the soil dry out completely between drinks to prevent over-watering. And although it grows slowly, aloe can eventually reach up to three feet in height and width.
2. Snake Plant
West Elm
Snake plants are beloved for their striking, sword-shaped dark green leaves, which are often highlighted with patterns in silver, white, cream, or yellow hues. These tough plants are ideal for forgetful waterers, too, as they can go weeks without needing a drink!
So, this variety can easily reach an impressive four feet tall and even thrives in a range of lighting conditions, from low to bright light.
3. Zebra Plant
Home Depot
Aphelandra Zebra Plant with Yellow Blooms
With its white-striped leaves, the zebra plant can add a stylish touch to any windowsill. But, perhaps its best quality is that this low-maintenance succulent thrives with very little attention, making it ideal for busy plant owners.
This variety typically remains under a foot tall, so it remains compact and easy to fit in smaller living spaces, like apartments. Additionally, the zebra plant prefers bright light and well-draining soil, so you should always allow the soil to dry out in between waterings.
4. Bunny Ear Cactus
Anthropologie
As this variety's cute name suggests, the bunny ear cactus features flat pads that resemble the ears of a rabbit. Not only is this charming cactus drought-tolerant, but it also doesn't have the sharp spines typically associated with cacti. Still, you should be cautious of the tiny barbs on its pads, which can irritate your skin if touched.
The bunny ear cactus needs plenty of bright light to thrive, but when given enough sun exposure, you'll be rewarded with beautiful yellow blooms in the spring.
5. Corn Plant
Amazon
Despite its name, the corn plant isn't really related to the corn you eat. Rather, its long green leaves do resemble corn stalks! Aside from bringing a bunch of greenery into your home, this plant is low-maintenance and surprisingly forgiving if you sometimes forget to water. It will bounce back if it dries out a little, making it a no-fuss variety.
6. Ponytail Palm
West Elm
The ponytail palm is a very tough plant, thanks to its thick stems that store moisture. So, it can easily survive if you forget to water it now and then! This drought-tolerant beauty only needs to be watered every couple of weeks in the warmer months and every three to four weeks during the winter. It also does well in both low and bright light and can reach an impressive 10 feet tall.
7. Ox Tongue
Etsy
Featuring rugged leaves, the ox tongue can add visual intrigue to any indoor plant collection. This succulent doesn't require frequent watering, either, and in the winter, it can go for weeks without needing a drink. Instead, it flourishes in bright light, and with the right amount of sun, it will produce pink-red flowers during the spring.
8. Pothos
West Elm
Pothos is a favorite in both homes and offices thanks to its hardiness and glossy leaves. This variety has earned its reputation as one of the most low-maintenance plants, flourishing even without daily watering. On top of that, it handles everything from low light to bright light and can tolerate drying out in between waterings.
9. Dracaena
Amazon
Commonly known as "dragon trees," dracaena are favored for their sword-shaped leaves and resilience in the face of neglect. They're highly adaptable, thriving in low light and requiring minimal watering. They can even handle missed feedings from time to time, too. So, dracaena can make bold decor statements with little care needed from their owners.
10. ZZ Plant
The Sill
Last but not least is the ZZ plant, which has thick and leathery leaves that almost resemble plastic. Thankfully, this drought-tolerant variety is just as low-maintenance as the fake plants you can buy at the store. ZZ plants only require occasional watering, and while they do best in bright light, they're also perfectly fine in low-light areas.
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