6 Tough Houseplants Even The Worst Gardeners Can’t Kill

There are several varieties of “Air Plant” to be discovered, but our favourite is the Tillandsia Xerographica, a spidery looking growth with curly, flat leaves that seem to lift the plant out of its container.

Air plants are so named because they rely on so little to grow, you don’t even need to put them in soil. Hang these trees in a basket, on a shelf or in a decorative bowl. Soak in water for a couple of hours every 10-14 days and then leave these plants to thrive by themselves.

Well known for its medicinal properties, Aloe Vera is also one of the sturdiest cactus plants to grow in the home. The gel that can be squeezed out of Aloe leaves provides effective relief for sunburn and other skin maladies, and works as a soothing moisturiser.

The plant grows best in bright sunlight, but will still survive in darker areas. They can remain in the same pot for years and their large leaves will store water well so they only need infrequent H2O top ups.

Named for their strength and hardness, Cast Iron Plants (or Aspidistra Elatior) can put up with the toughest conditions. Their large leaves actually prefer low light to direct sunbeams, so are ideal for brightening up a dim room.

Their wide, flat leaves will help oxygenate a small room, providing health benefits to those living with it. It’s tolerant of cold weather and can survive long periods without water. This plant is ideal for an office or small bedroom where it can be forgotten about.

Also known as a “Love Plant”, the Purple Shamrock is a stunning houseplant with two-tone purple heart shaped leaves that grow in threes. A unique indoor statement plant that stands out in a world of green-leafed growths.

Growing best in indirect light, the hardy plants can be ignored and neglected for long periods, and still come back from the dead. In poor conditions the plants will store nutrients within the small bulbs, letting the flowers and leaves die away – ready to grow back once the plant is fed and watered. Rekindle this plant after a couple of months and watch it spring back to its old, beautiful display.

Ideal for our friends at Christmastreesandlights.co.uk, the Christmas Cactus (or Schlumbergera Bridgessii) will grow beautiful bright pink or red flowers from late November to January, like a wonderful festive display.

Unlike most cacti, these plants prefer to be out of direct sunlight. They do require frequent watering in the warmer months to keep them at their best, but can easily come back if they’ve been neglected. They can also survive a range of temperatures, making them suitable for planting both indoors and outdoors.