Houseplants are an easy way to add some colour into your room. And guess what? Many fo them are (almost) unkillable! Have a look at our article that we wrote in partnership with the Daily Express.
Asking the Expert...
Many houseplant owners start off with a hardy variety or two in the hope they won’t kill it after a month of it being in their home. Whether you’re a novice or have little time to care for a houseplant, but still want to reap the health benefits, here is a selection of unkillable plants, as recommended by John Maree from Oxy Plants. .
There are several hardy or ‘unkillable’ plants, John revealed them to be a “Money Tree, Cast Iron, Areca Palm, Kentia Palm, ZZ Plant, Dragon Tree, and Rubber Plant”.
In terms of how to look after these plants, the expert had a few tips: “All of these species of plants are extremely hardy and can thrive in a number of conditions including a lack of natural light”.
“The trick to keeping healthy houseplants is to be patient. More and more watering will not make them grow any faster, in fact, quite the opposite”.
Always Avoid Overwatering
“Over-watering is the main reason why houseplants die. Over watering causes root rot which is basically the plant drowning as the roots become submerged in water.
“Always follow the rule of watering little and often and a little more during warmer months.
“To ensure the soil is moist use the finger test; insert your finger into the soil to the knuckle if it is dry it requires a little water but remember not too much.”
John also suggested being vigilant when it comes to common pests and diseases: “Check in your houseplant’s cubbyholes occasionally for spider mites and mealybugs, scale, thrips and vine weevils. If you find any pests consider using an organic insecticide like neem oil.”
Oxy Plants top 5 unkillable houseplants:
Cast Iron Plant (From £22.50)
Cast iron by name, cast iron by nature – this plant is number one for a reason.
Aspidistra add lush, green foliage to any space and can withstand almost any environment you throw at it.
Water once per month a keep their leaves free of dust for an easy care approach to growing houseplants.
Oxy Plants top tip: Be sure to mist your plant’s leaves to keep them looking brand new and wipe away any dust.
Kentia Palm (From £39.00)
A beautiful palm discovered on a small island off the coast of Australia. This shade-loving palm adds exuberance, style and class to every home it resides.
Kentia Palms require little care and attention making them one of the best unkillable indoor plants.
Oxy Plants top tip: Be sure to mist your plant’s leaves to keep them looking brand new and wipe away any dust.
Snake Plant (From £7.50)
Also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, the snake plant is a hardy, leathery plant which requires little attention.
If you’re always forgetful of watering your plants, this is a great choice for you.
They’re also a very affordable plant and there are several varieties to choose from; cylindrical and curly.
Corn Plant (From £39.99)
A stubborn, resilient plant which can go for extended periods without watering.
Able to cope with varying temperatures and relatively low light conditions, the Corn Plant makes is a great choice for those in the search for an unkillable houseplant.
Devil's Ivy
Earning its name due it’s ferocious growing capabilities and bounce-back-ability.
Devil’s Ivy can be a great option for those who don’t have the greatest memory for consistently watering a plant as it will withstand a few weeks without a top-up.
It can also be propagated easily using cuttings from each node.
But it is toxic to humans and pets as it contains calcium oxalate crystals. These crystals can cause burning and swelling of the lips, tongue and throat and it can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.
