16
T
hese plants all enjoy a
hands-off approach, so they
are ideal for busy people
and beginners. They can
tolerate tap water, do not
demand feeding, and any
minor qualms are usually
solved by watering them less. You would
have to try exceptionally hard to kill them.
Snake plant
(Sansevieria)
Happy in almost all light conditions,
but particularly useful in dark rooms
or areas of indirect or low light.
Plant care Water once a month,
allowing the soil to dry out between
Plant care Water weekly to keep moist,
but do not allow it to stand in water.
Non-toxic.Aloe vera
Grow this fleshy, serrated-edged
succulent in bright indirect sunlight,
watering every two to three weeks in
summer and less in winter.
Plant care This plant likes it dry, so
avoid humid locations such as
bathrooms and allow the soil to dry
out completely between watering.
Never allow it to stand in water or it
will go mushy. Although considered
medicinal for humans, this plant is
mildly toxic to pets.OutsideOutside
Hard-to-kill
house plants:
my top pi ck s
From tough succulents and ferns to a
rubber plant that’s virtually indestructible
— Alice Bowe on what to buy
waterings. Never allow this plant to sit
in water. Mildly toxic if eaten, so keep
it away from pets and curious children.Chinese money plant
(Pilea peperomioides)
A small plant for tables, desks or as
a hanging plant. Position in bright,
indirect light or dappled shade.
Plant care Water once a week, or when
the soil is dry, but do not allow it to
stand in water. Feed at half-strength
once a month. Non-toxic.Cast-iron plant
(Aspidistra elatior)
Unusually for a large-leaved plant, thisresilient (and non-toxic) Victorian classic
will do well in gloomy corners where
most other house plants fail to thrive.
Plant care It will happily grow almost
anywhere except in bright sunshine, and
although it will tolerate a haphazard
watering schedule, aim for every two
weeks, or when the soil has dried out
completely.Bird’s nest fern
(Asplenium nidus ‘Crispy Wave’)
This sculptural fern likes moderate,
indirect light and some humidity, so a
spot in a bathroom or kitchen that
avoids direct sunlight or deep shade is
usually ideal.Doesn’t need
much water
Zamioculcas zamiifolia