Houseplants should be an essential part of every interior design. Greenery brightens indoor spaces and is known for boosting mood. Houseplants are popular because they are relatively easy to care for, offer health benefits, and fit a variety of interior styles. They’re a great option when outdoor garden space is limited or when living in climates with harsh winters.

If you’re new to caring for houseplants, our ultimate guide will give you the information needed to help your green friends thrive. To provide expert insight, we asked Ambius’s experienced horticulturist Matt Kostelnick to answer the most frequently asked questions about houseplants.

What are houseplants?

Houseplants are plants that grow indoors. Many tropical plants, such as palms, thrive well inside.

How much light do houseplants need?

Succulents and cacti need daily direct sunlight. Foliage plants require about 8 hours of light per day. The light amount depends on the specific plant species, so it’s important to research the plants you grow.

What conditions make a good houseplant?

Look for these qualities when choosing a houseplant:

  • Healthy root system: Thick, light-colored roots indicate a healthy plant.
  • Foliage: Leaves should be dense enough that you can’t see through them.
  • No signs of disease: Avoid plants with white spots, sticky residue, or unpleasant smells.
     

Which houseplants need little light?

Low-light plants work well in dimmer areas. Examples include:

  • Philodendron: Hardy, rarely attracts pests, adapts well.
  • Epipremnum Aureum: Colorful leaves, thrives in low or indirect light.
  • Dracaena: Popular with long green leaves; prune when foliage grows too long.
  • Peace Lily: Prefers moist soil; moves to a darker room to encourage flowering.
     

Which houseplants are easy to care for?

These plants are known for low maintenance:

  • Sansevieria
  • Philodendron
  • Epipremnum
  • Zamioculcas
  • Most succulents
     

Which plants are considered houseplants?

Plants that thrive with little light and water are typically houseplants. Examples Ambius recommends:

  • Aglaonema
  • Dracaena
  • Epipremnum
  • Palms
  • Philodendrons
  • Sansevieria Zeylanica
  • Spathiphyllum (Peace Lily)
  • Succulents
  • Ferns
     

What are the best houseplants?

Top houseplants tolerate low light and humidity, resist pests, and grow slowly:

  • Aglaonema — attractive, low light, slow growth
  • Aspidistra — needs little water and light; good for low-maintenance care
  • Succulents — require bright light
  • Dracaena
  • Philodendrons
     

How do you prune houseplants?

Only prune if necessary. If your plant looks leggy or weak, trimming encourages healthier growth.

What are common reasons houseplants die?

  • Overwatering or underwatering
  • Incorrect light levels (too much or too little)
  • Neglect
     

How long do houseplants live on average?

Typically 2 to 5 years. After that, plants may stop blooming, and replacing them is advised.

How do houseplants affect mood?

Houseplants clean the air, reduce noise, and lower stress levels, making them great mood boosters.

Are houseplants expensive?

Generally affordable. Smaller plants cost less. Beware of low prices on large plants at big retailers; the quality may vary. Research or consult garden center experts before buying.

Want to add houseplants to your workplace but unsure where to start? Contact Ambius — we’re happy to help you create a greener, healthier environment.