Nine colorful houseplants that are perfect for beginners, according to plant pros
Let's start by clearing something up for new plant parents: Beginners are not beholden to green plants and green plants only. While we love a verdant spread full of emerald green leaves and vines, there are plenty of colorful houseplants that those new to the world of plant care can handle.
If you're just starting out, these are the 10 plants two experts recommend that don't require expert level care but can show off an impressive rainbow of shades in your home.
Meet the Expert
- Samantha Adler is the founder of Houseplant Concierge, a houseplant care business based in New York City.
- Brad Hazelett is the manager at Driftwood Garden Center, a family-owned and operated garden center.
01 of 09
A raven ZZ plant has the laidback care requirements of the common green Zanzibar gem, but a fascinating dark purple shade. It's houseplant expert Samantha Adler's number one recommendation for plant newbies looking for a pop of color.
"It tolerates all different kinds of light and doesn't need a ton of water," she says.
They're hardy plants, and although they appreciate well-draining soil and humidity, they'll hold up just fine with whatever you're capable of providing.
02 of 09
"Crotons are the definition of beginner-friendly color," says plant expert Brad Hazelett. "They have color variegation throughout the entire plant and even change color throughout the growing process."
Although they appreciate humidity and lots of sun, it is by no means a tricky plant for newbies to handle.
"Crotons like to dry out in between waterings and thrive on neglect, which can be perfect for someone brand new to the hobby," Hazelett says.
03 of 09
If you're on the hunt for purple houseplants that are easy to care for, it's hard to beat Oxalis and it's shamrock-shaped leaves. Radiating shades of fuchsia, violet, and plum—this choice is a definite color splash for any home.
"These beautiful purple leaves like to be kept moist almost all the time but they are otherwise very easy to care for," says Adler. "They reproduce quickly and can add a pop of color wherever they are. They bounce back quickly if there's a misstep in their care."
Keep an Eye on the Sun
Colorful houseplants, especially those with darker leaves, often need more sunlight than regular plants; set your plants near a south-facing window to ensure they get all the light they need.
04 of 09
Aside from its easy care routine, aglaonema is a great choice for two color-related reasons: you can find it with pink- and orange-tinged leaves or in a cool tri-colored green pattern.
"It is a low-light tolerant houseplant with many varieties and flashy color options," says Hazelett. "It also can handle inconstant watering, which is perfect for a beginner with a busy schedule."
It's also a great houseplant if you're looking for tropical varieties or something for a stylish indoor greenhouse cabinet.
05 of 09
The best part about coleus is that they're happy inside and out, so you can add color to your indoor jungle or outdoor garden,
"These come in a variety of colors and can grow a bit tall or be encouraged to grow wide," says Adler. "They propagate very easily so you just snip a stem and stick it in the dirt wherever you want it."
As far as their indoor care needs go, you'll want to aim for bright morning light and indirect light throughout the day. They also prefer their soil to remain moist; just make sure it's a well-draining potting mix.
06 of 09
Spiderwort, or Tradescantia zebrina, not only brings interesting colors to your plant collection, but unique patterns and leaf shapes too.
"They can be in a hanging pot or not," says Adler. "They also like bright but indirect light and are fairly flexible about the window they are in. They like to be consistently watered but don't need too much attention beyond every week or two."
Spiderwort isn't fussy, and makes a great option for a hanging basket. These fast-growing plants are best kept indoors as spiderwort can become invasive if left to its own devices outside.
07 of 09
If you're looking for an eye-catching hue for your indoor garden, you'll want to add bromeliads to your nursery wish list.
"Bromeliads are the kings of color, with hundreds of unique varieties covering every color of the rainbow," says Hazelett. "They have low water requirements and do not require a lot of light, making them perfect for a centerpiece of color for beginner houseplant enthusiasts."
With care, you'll get see the bright pink, orange, and red spikes they can produce. And to add to the list of pros, they're not only simple to look after but also purify the air around them.1
08 of 09
For cool purple and pink hues, as well a silver and green tones, look no further than indoor begonias like begonia Rex. While they are beginner friendly, begonias are slightly more challenging and are better for newbies who have already successfully added one or two plants to their care.
"There is some disagreement in the plant community how easy these are to care for," says Adler. "They get tricky with their water because they like to be fairly consistently moist but never soaking wet. You need the right soil for them and a consistent watering schedule."
Master this, and your new plant will reward you with dramatic color all year long.
09 of 09
There are many types of dracaena out there. You might be most familiar with the usual green, spiky-leaved version, but there are plenty of other options that are bright lime green, striped, pink, and red.
"Varieties like 'Colorama' and 'lemon lime' are teeming with bright, beautiful color," says Hazelett. "This houseplant can also handle an inconsistent watering schedule."