Tired of hearing about Snake Plants and Pothos? Try these underrated gems!
When you're new to houseplants, the same few names tend to pop up: Snake Plant, Pothos, ZZ plant... Sound familiar? They're great, sure—but they’re not the only low-maintenance options out there.
At Plant Paradise by Gemma, we love helping beginners discover different easy-care plants that are just as fuss-free, but with a bit more personality. Here's our pick of 10 beginner-friendly houseplants you might not have tried (yet!).
🌿 1. Hoya (Wax Plant)
Hoyas are beautifully quirky, with thick waxy leaves and, if you’re lucky, clusters of fragrant flowers. They like bright, indirect light and drying out between waterings.
Why it’s great: Very low-maintenance and long-lived, with a unique look.
🍃 2. Peperomia
With loads of varieties—from ripple-leaved to watermelon-striped—Peperomias stay small, don’t need much water, and thrive in average indoor light.
Why it’s great: Compact, stylish, and ideal for shelves or desks.
🌾 3. Asparagus Fern
Don’t let the name fool you—this soft, feathery plant isn’t a true fern and is much easier to care for. It loves light but tolerates shade and doesn’t mind a bit of drying out.
Why it’s great: Light, airy texture adds softness to any space.
🌱 4. Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus)
With its lush, glossy, wavy fronds that form a rosette, the Bird’s Nest Fern adds a tropical vibe without being high maintenance. It prefers indirect light and likes its soil to stay slightly moist, but it’s quite forgiving if you miss a watering.
Why it’s great: Adds vibrant green texture and works well in bathrooms or shaded spots.
🍀 5. Pilea Peperomioides (Chinese Money Plant)
Adored for its coin-shaped leaves and modern look, this plant grows quickly and is easy to propagate. Likes bright light but isn’t fussy.
Why it’s great: Stylish and generous—makes loads of babies!
🌿 6. Calathea 'Freddie'
Unlike other Calatheas, 'Freddie' is forgiving and easier to care for. It has beautiful stripy leaves that move slightly throughout the day.
Why it’s great: Adds pattern and drama without high demands.
🌸 7. Tradescantia Nanouk
With striking purple, green, and silver striped leaves, this fast grower brightens up any space. It's easy to grow and happy in bright indirect light.
Why it’s great: Eye-catching and fast-growing—great for instant impact.
🌵 8. Euphorbia trigona (African Milk Tree)
Tall, architectural, and tough, this cactus-like plant is super drought-tolerant and doesn’t mind being ignored.
Why it’s great: A sculptural alternative to a snake plant with real character.
🍂 9. Aglaonema 'Silver Bay'
An underrated gem with beautiful silvery-green leaves. Tolerates low light, infrequent watering, and a variety of home conditions.
Why it’s great: Elegant and hardy, even in awkward corners.
🪴 10. Scindapsus pictus (Satin Pothos)
Okay, technically a cousin of Pothos—but this one’s less common and has beautiful velvety silver-spotted leaves. It’s easy to trail or climb and low-fuss.
Why it’s great: Just as easy as a Pothos but far more unique.
💬 Need Help Choosing?
At Plant Paradise by Gemma, we go beyond the usual recommendations. Whether you’re after something bold, compact, trailing, or tough as nails, we offer:
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Personal help tips tailored to your light, space, and schedule
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A curated selection of plants perfect for first-timers
Bring in photos of your room or message us—we’ll guide you to your perfect match.
🌿 Final Thought
There’s a whole world of beginner-friendly plants beyond the Snake Plant and ZZ. Whether you’re after something colourful, trailing, or a bit out of the ordinary, there’s an easy-care plant out there with your name on it.
Let your plant journey begin—and remember, Plant Paradise by Gemma is on hand if you ever need a recommendation.