10 Easy-to-Care-For Houseplants that Make Perfect Gifts

Are you looking for the perfect holiday gift for someone you love? Houseplants make lovely gifts because they’re not only beautiful but also functional!

They add a touch of greenery to any space and provide numerous health benefits, includng purifying the air and reducing stress levels.

But with so many houseplants available in garden centers and even grocery stores, deciding which one is best can be overwhelming.

This list includes houseplants that are known to be great for beginners and even people who often forget to water or check on their plants.

From low-light options to those that thrive in bright, indirect sunlight, you’ll find a plant that suits your taste.

1) Snake Plant

Are you looking for a houseplant with a modern vibe? That’s the snake plant!

This succulent is so versatile that it can thrive in both low light and direct sunlight.

It’s just about the most low-maintenance plant you can find plus it looks gorgeous indoors.

Pair it with a white pot and you’ve got yourself a pretty cool gift to give!

2) ZZ Plant

Green ZZ Plant in pot
Houseplants

This is one of my favorite indoor plants because it’s absolutely stunning AND easy to care for.

The deep, glossy green makes for a stunning addition in homes. I paired it with a silver pot and the contrast was perfect!

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance houseplant that thrives in low-light conditions, the ZZ plant is an excellent choice.

You can go several weeks between watering sessions, and the plant will still look healthy and vibrant.

This makes it ideal for busy homeowners or those who forget about their plants.

Another benefit of the ZZ plant is that it is very easy to propagate. You can take a stem cutting and place it in water or soil, which will quickly grow into a new plant.

This makes it an excellent choice for gifting to friends and family new to plant care.

3) Pothos

Pothos plant, full and lush
Pearls and jade pothos plant looking full at the top and middle. The plant is planted in a white pot and is sitting on a brown table.

If you’re looking for a houseplant that’s easy to care for and can thrive in low-light conditions, look no further than the Pothos.

This plant is incredibly resilient!

Its long, trailing vines that can grow up to several feet long but they can also stay pretty small, depending on its pot size.

There are different varities and you can find them in shades of green, variegated with green and cream, and golden green.

4) Spider Plant

If you’re looking for a uniqe-looking houseplant, the spider plant is a great option.

Its long, thin leaves and small white flowers make it a classic choice for any space.

One of the best things about spider plants is their resilience. They can tolerate various temperatures and light conditions, so their care needs are pretty minimal.

They also purify the air, making them a popular choice for bedrooms and living rooms.

When it comes to caring for your spider plant, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, make sure it’s in a well-draining pot with good-quality soil. Water it regularly, but don’t overwater it—spider plants prefer to be slightly dry between waterings.

5) Haworthia Succulent

Haworthia Zebra Indoor Succulent Planted in a Green Teacup

Haworthia is a popular indoor succulent because it’s incerdibly low-maintenance and also aesthetically pleasing.

It lends a modern vibe to spaces and acts like another layer of home decor.

As a huge succulent lover, I can tell you that haworthia is probably the very best succulent to give as a gift because it’s resilient and easy to care for.

It can thrive on neglect and doesn’t need much water or sunlight to keep living.

If you have a friend who loves cacti or succulents, give them Haworthia as a gift – they’re sure to love it!

Gift it in a cute mug or planter for added pizzazz.Remove a small offset from the base of the plant and pot it in soil.

6) Peace Lily

The Peace Lily is a great option if you’re looking for a low-maintenance houseplant that can thrive in low-light conditions.

This plant is known for its beautiful white flowers and glossy green leaves, which can add a touch of elegance to any room.

One of the best things about the Peace Lily is that it doesn’t require a lot of water. Overwatering can harm the plant.

Water it once weekly and ensure the soil is moist but not soggy.

Another benefit of the Peace Lily is that it can help purify the air in your home.

This plant is known to remove toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene from the air, making it an excellent choice for those with allergies or respiratory issues.

7) Philodendron

If you’re looking for a houseplant that’s easy to care for and can add a touch of tropical beauty to your home, a philodendron might be just what you need.

These plants are native to the rainforests of South America and come in various shapes and sizes, making them a versatile choice for any space.

One of the great things about philodendrons is that they don’t require much attention. They can thrive in various lighting conditions, from bright, indirect light to low light, and they don’t need to be watered very often.

Overwatering can be a problem for these plants, so it’s best to let the soil dry out a bit between waterings.

Another benefit of philodendrons is that they can help purify the air in your home.

These plants are known for removing toxins like formaldehyde and benzene from the air, making them a great choice for anyone who wants to improve indoor air quality.

8) Chinese Evergreen

Tropical ‘Aglaonema Silver Bay’ houseplant with silver pattern in basket pot in boho style living room

The Chinese Evergreen is a great option if you’re looking for a low-maintenance houseplant that can thrive in low-light conditions.

With its variegated leaves in shades of green and silver, this plant adds a touch of elegance to any room.

Chinese Evergreens are known for their ability to purify the air, making them a popular choice for offices and bedrooms.

They are also pet-friendly, so you don’t have to worry about harmful effects on your furry friends.

To care for your Chinese Evergreen, keep it in a spot with indirect sunlight and water it once a week. You can also mist the leaves occasionally to keep them looking fresh and vibrant.

9) Rubber Plant

Indoor plant ficus rubber tree in white plastic pot isolated on white background clipping path. India rubber fig green leaves air purifier plant indoor minimal design. Ficus elastica black prince black knight.

The rubber plant is a great option if you’re looking for a low-maintenance houseplant that can add a touch of green to any room. With its glossy, dark green leaves, this plant can thrive in various lighting conditions and is easy to care for.

Rubber plants prefer bright, indirect light but tolerate lower light levels.

Water your rubber plant when the soil feels dry, but be careful not to overwater it as this can lead to root rot.

One of the rubber plant’s benefits is that it is known for purifying the air, making it a great addition to any home or office. Plus, its tall, upright growth habit can add a dramatic touch to any room.

10) Peperomia

Peperomia Houseplant Succulent
Peperomia Houseplant succulent in bronze pot. Featuring multiple large green leaves that grow upward. Sitting next to small green vase and picture frame.

If you’re looking for a houseplant that is easy to care for and adds a glossy green to your home, the Pepermoia plant is a great choice.

It’s incredibly low-maintenance and is often compared to the beauty and easy-going nature of the pothos plant.

One of the great things about this plant is that it can thrive in low-light conditions, making it perfect for those who don’t have much natural light in their homes.

It also doesn’t require a lot of water, so you don’t have to worry about underwatering it.

Check on the soil once a week and give it tons of filtered sunlight!

Benefits of Easy-to-Care-For Houseplants

If you’re looking for a gift that keeps on giving, easy-to-care-for houseplants are a great option.

Not only do they add a touch of green to any space, but they also come with numerous benefits.

Improving Air Quality

One of the most significant benefits of houseplants is their ability to improve air quality. They absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, reducing air pollution and improving the air you breathe.

Some plants, such as snake and spider plants, are particularly good at removing toxins like formaldehyde and benzene from the air.

Boosting Mood and Productivity

In addition to improving air quality, houseplants can boost your mood and productivity.

Studies have shown that plants can reduce stress levels and increase feelings of happiness and relaxation. Having plants in your workspace can also increase productivity and creativity.

Caring Tips for Houseplants

Watering Guidelines

Watering your houseplants can be tricky, but keeping them healthy is essential. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the plants to wilt and die. Here are some watering guidelines to keep in mind:

  • Check the soil before watering. Stick your finger about an inch deep into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
  • Water thoroughly. Ensure the water reaches the roots by watering until it drains out of the pot’s bottom.
  • Don’t let your plants sit in standing water. Empty the saucer under the pot after watering.
  • Water less in the winter. Plants grow more slowly during the colder months and need less water.
houseplant peperomia in white pot

Light Requirements

Plants need light to photosynthesize and grow, but not all plants require the same light. Here are some general guidelines:

  • Low-light plants can grow in areas with little natural light. Examples include snake plants, pothos, and ZZ plants.
  • Medium-light plants need bright, indirect light. Examples include peace lilies, spider plants, and philodendrons.
  • High-light plants need direct sunlight for at least a few hours a day. Examples include succulents, cacti, and some herbs grown indoors like basil and rosemary.
Houseplants

Remember to rotate your plants every few weeks to ensure even growth and prevent them from leaning towards the light source.

Choosing the Right Pot and Soil

Pot Selection

When selecting a pot for your houseplant, you want to ensure it’s the right size and material.

A pot that is too small will restrict the plant’s growth, while a pot that is too large will hold too much moisture, potentially leading to root rot.

Choose a pot that is about 2 inches larger in diameter than the current pot your plant is in. This will give the roots enough room to grow without overwhelming them.

Additionally, consider the pot’s material. Clay pots are great for plants that prefer drier soil, allowing for better drainage.

Meanwhile, plastic pots are better for plants that prefer moist soil, as they retain moisture for longer periods.

Soil Types

The type of soil you choose for your houseplant can greatly impact its growth and health.

The two most common types of soil are potting soil and cactus soil.

Potting soil is a general-purpose soil that works well for most houseplants. It’s a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.

Meanwhile, cactus soil is a mixture of sand, perlite, and peat moss. It’s great for plants that prefer drier soil conditions, allowing for better drainage.

When you repot your plant, use fresh soil. Reusing old soil can introduce pests and diseases to your plant.

Additionally, consider adding some fertilizer to the soil to give your plant an extra boost of nutrients.