Even if you are doing everything right in your home regarding water conservation and conserving energy, sometimes it just seems like you’re using up gallons of water to keep the plants in your home healthy and green.
Plenty of low-water houseplants can help you reduce the amount of water your household needs while still keeping your indoor environment lush and green.
Here are ten of the best low-water houseplants to help reduce indoor water use without sacrificing decor appeal.
1. Aloe Vera
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Most succulents like aloe vera are adapted to low light conditions, as they grow naturally in areas of partial shade, such as rock crevices or beneath trees. Aloe vera is a succulent that is very easy to care for. Aloe vera can tolerate low light and infrequent watering, making it an ideal plant for those who do not have a lot of time to care for their plants.
The thick, fleshy leaves of the aloe vera plant are full of a gel that can be used to soothe burns and other skin irritations. In addition, the aloe vera plant emits a refreshing fragrance that can help improve your home’s air quality. For these reasons, aloe vera is the best low-water indoor plant.
2. Snake Plant
Known as Sansevieria trifasciata or mother-in-law’s tongue, the snake plant is a versatile and easy-to-care-for house plant. It is native to Africa and thrives in dry conditions, making it an ideal choice for those who want a low-maintenance plant.
Snake plants are available in various colors and sizes and can be placed in bright indirect, and low-light conditions. While they do not require frequent watering, they should be allowed to dry out completely between waterings.
Snake plants are also known for their ability to purify the air, making them an excellent choice for any home or office.
3. Spider Plant
The spider plant is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a low-water house plant. Native to Africa, the spider plant is tolerant of high and low light conditions. It can also survive in a wide range of temperatures, making it a versatile plant that can be grown in almost any home.
The spider plant is also known for purifying the air, making it an ideal choice for improving indoor air quality.
When watering, be sure only to give the plant enough water to keep the soil moist. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so it is essential to err on the side of caution. With some care, your spider plant will thrive and provide you with years of enjoyment.
4. Ponytail Palm
The ponytail palm (Beaucarnea recurvata) is a drought-tolerant succulent that originates from Mexico. It gets its name from its long, thin leaves that resemble a ponytail.
Ponytail palms are slow-growing plants that can reach up to 10 feet in height. They are relatively low-maintenance and can thrive in various conditions, making them a popular choice for indoor and outdoor gardens.
One of the best things about ponytail palm is that it is a very drought-tolerant houseplant and requires medium light and minimal watering, making it an ideal choice for any low-water plant lover.
5. Cast Iron Plant
Low-water plants are perfect for those who want to enjoy the beauty of plants without having to worry about frequent watering. There are a variety of low-water plants available, each with its unique appearance.
One popular option is the cast iron plant, which is known for its glossy dark green leaves. The plant is drought-tolerant and can live without water for many days.
The cast Iron plant is a good choice for those who want a hardy plant that can withstand neglected conditions.
6. Zebra Plant
The zebra plant is a type of succulent that originates from Madagascar. It gets its name from the distinctive stripes on its leaves, which can be both green and white. The zebra plant is a popular choice for indoor gardens because it is effortless to care for. It is a low-water plant, meaning it does not need to be watered very often.
Overwatering can be damaging to the plant. The zebra plant thrives in bright, indirect light and should be allowed to dry out completely between waterings. With a bit of care, this striking plant can add a touch of the exotic to any home.
7. Devil’s Backbone
Are you looking for a low-water house plant? If so, the devil’s backbone (Pedilanthus tithymaloides) is a great option. Native to Mexico and the Caribbean, this succulent is known for its resilience and easy care. The plant has fleshy, green leaves arranged in a rosette pattern. In the summer, the plant produces small, white flowers.
Devil’s backbone is not picky about soil type but prefers well-drained soil. The plant grows best in bright light but can also tolerate partial shade. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch.
Devil’s backbone is a relatively low-maintenance plant perfect for busy homeowners or anyone new to gardening. Give this hardy succulent a try – you won’t be disappointed!
8. Sago Palm
The Sago Palm is an ideal house plant for those who want to enjoy the beauty of palm trees without all the maintenance. It is a low-water plant that can thrive in many environments, making it a perfect choice for busy homeowners or anyone who doesn’t have a green thumb.
The Sago Palm is also an excellent air purifier, helping to remove harmful toxins from the home. The Sago Palm is an excellent option if you’re looking for a low-maintenance plant or simply want to add some tropical flair to your decor.
9. Calathea
The Calathea is one of the best low-water house plants. It is native to tropical regions and has showy, often colorful leaves. The plant does not like direct sunlight and thrives in humid conditions.
It should be watered only when the soil is dry to the touch. Over-watering can lead to root rot.
The Calathea is ideal for those who want a beautiful, low-maintenance houseplant.
10. Haworthia
The Haworthia is a low-water house plant that originates from South Africa. It has thick, spiky leaves that are often patterned or striped.
The Haworthia is a succulent, which means it stores water in its leaves. This makes it an excellent choice for people who want an easy plant to care for. When watering your Haworthia, use tepid water and allow the soil to dry completely between watering.
The Haworthia can tolerate some direct sunlight, but it is best to place it in an east- or west-facing window. The Haworthia will thrive indoors and make a beautiful addition to your home with proper care.
Things to Keep In Mind Before Buying Low-Watering Plants
When finding the best low-water house plant, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Size of Plants
Consider the size of the plant. Some low-water plants, like cacti and succulents, and the ZZ plant, are small enough to fit on a windowsill or desktop planter. Other low-water plants, like the ponytail palm, can grow quite large.
Light
Second, think about the light requirements of the plant. Some low-water plants, like Hoyas and Dracaenas, need bright indirect light. Others, like Aloes and Ponytail Palms, can tolerate lower light levels.
Watering Needs
Finally, consider the watering needs of the plant. Some low-water plants, like Bromeliads and Air Plants, only need to be watered once a week or even less frequently. However, other low-water plants, like Sansevierias and Ponytail Palms, should be watered more frequently.
Wrapping Up!
Low-water plants are the best option if you’re looking to reduce your household water usage or live in an area with low or unreliable water pressure, but they can be hard to find. Many popular houseplants, such as the snake plant, thrive on neglect and need very little care to survive and grow at home