The 7 Best Houseplants for Apartment Living

Small spaces don’t have to feel lifeless. Even in compact apartments with limited sunlight or floor space, houseplants can dramatically elevate your environment — improving mood, purifying the air, and adding natural charm to any corner.

Here are the best indoor plants to thrive in apartments — no green thumb required.

1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)

The ultimate low-maintenance apartment plant.

Snake Plants thrive on neglect, require very little light, and actively purify indoor air.

Why it works in apartments:

• Tolerates low light and irregular watering

• Vertical growth suits tight corners

• Cleans air by removing formaldehyde and benzene

• Modern, architectural look fits all decor styles

Perfect For: Bedrooms, entryways, windowless corners

Discover just one of the benefits of keeping a snake plant at home in the article Why the Snake Plant Helps You Sleep Better at Night.

2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

A glossy, tough beauty that survives dim conditions and dry spells like a champ.

The ZZ Plant is practically indestructible.

Why it works in apartments:

• Needs very little water

• Thrives in low light — even interior rooms

• Non-messy, with no leaf drop

• Bold leaves bring a contemporary look

Perfect For: Offices, living rooms, shaded hallways

Learn why the ZZ plant makes an excellent addition to your apartment bathroom in the article The Ultimate Zero-Fuss Plant for Your Bathroom: Meet the ZZ.

3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

With trailing vines and easy-going care needs, Pothos brings softness and greenery without stress.

Why it works in apartments:

• Grows in bright or low light

• Purifies air and grows fast

• Trailing vines can be trained vertically or draped

• Available in many variegated styles

Perfect For: Hanging planters, shelf decor, bathroom corners

The Calm Presence Every Bedroom Deserves: Pothos reveals why pothos works well in small apartment bedrooms.

4. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

A charming throwback that’s making a huge comeback.

Spider Plants are resilient, fun to style, and great for air quality.

Why it works in apartments:

• Thrives in indirect light

• Tolerates humidity and cooler temps

• Sprouts baby “pups” that can be repotted

• Pet-safe and non-toxic

Perfect For: Kitchens, nurseries, shared spaces

Discover the benefits of keeping a spider plant in your small apartment bathroom in the article Spider Plant: The Moisture-Loving Plant That Thrives in Steamy Bathrooms.

5. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

For apartment dwellers who want blooms, Peace Lilies offer fragrant white flowers and lush foliage — with minimal effort.

Why it works in apartments:

• Prefers low to moderate light

• Blooms indoors with adequate care

• Absorbs mold spores and VOCs from air

• Elegant and sculptural

Perfect For: Bathrooms, bedrooms, cozy corners

Learn more about why a peace lily is a great home addition in the article Countertop Chic: The Peace Lily Is the Kitchen Accent You Didn’t Know You Needed.

6. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)

This bold statement plant adds instant style and structure to any apartment — without the fuss of most ficus varieties.

Why it works in apartments:

• Handles medium light and light neglect

• Thick leaves resist dust and moisture loss

• Can grow tall without being bushy

• Minimal leaf drop and slow growth = low mess

Perfect For: Corners, next to windows, minimalist rooms

Learn why a rubber plant is great for the bedroom in the article Nighttime Wellness Starts with a Rubber Plant by Your Bed.

7. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)

Colorful foliage meets stress-free care.

This adaptable beauty thrives in all types of apartments, even with poor lighting.

Why it works in apartments:

• Doesn’t need much light or water

• Striking silver, green, or red patterns

• Low-growing and slow to outgrow its pot

• Filters indoor toxins

Perfect For: Side tables, desks, small nooks

Read more about the benefits of Chinese evergreen in the article How Chinese Evergreens Bring Quiet Sophistication to Living Rooms.

Tips for Apartment Plant Success

🏡 Think vertical: Use shelves, hanging baskets, or stackable stands
💡 Match light levels: East-facing windows = ideal balance of light
🪴 Choose low-maintenance soil: Fast-draining mixes avoid overwatering risks
🐾 Check pet safety: If you have cats or dogs, opt for pet-friendly varieties like Spider Plant or Calathea
🧽 Keep it tidy: Look for low-shed, slow-growing plants if cleaning is a concern

🛒 Product Picks for Apartment Styling

• Macramé Hanging Planters – Save floor space

• Self-Watering Pots – Perfect for forgetful plant parents

• Stackable Plant Stands – Maximize corner height

• Compact Grow Light Clips – Boost light in shaded flats

• Pet-Friendly Plant Bundles – Safe and easy to style

Related Reads

→ Indoor Plant Hacks That Actually Work
→ Best Low-Light Plants for Apartments