Succulents have earned their reputation as the ultimate beginner plants. These low maintenance succulents thrive on neglect, need minimal watering, and still manage to look stunning year-round. Below, we’ve rounded up ten of the easiest succulents to grow, along with care tips and recommendations to help you enjoy thriving greenery without the stress.
Key Takeaways
- Most succulents only need watering once every 2–3 weeks.
- Many species thrive in bright indirect sunlight, making them ideal for indoor spaces.
- The best indoor succulents for beginners are drought-tolerant and require minimal pruning.
- Using well-draining soil is essential to prevent root rot.
- Proper lighting and soil mix can help your succulents live for years with little effort.
10 The Best Low Maintenance Succulents for Effortless Growth
Here are some of the easiest and most beginner friendly succulents you can grow at home or the office with little care and watering.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is one of the most classic and beginner friendly succulents. It stores water in its thick leaves, meaning you only need to water it every few weeks. It prefers bright, indirect light and does well near a window. Aside from being decorative, Aloe Vera also offers healing properties, its gel can soothe burns and skin irritations. For more plant care tips, explore the lazy gardener’s guide.
Jade Plant (Crassula Ovata)
Known for its rich green leaves and tree-like appearance, the Jade Plant is a hardy succulent for home or office. It loves sunlight and can thrive even if you forget to water it occasionally. Let the soil dry completely before watering again to avoid overwatering. With proper care, Jade Plants can live for decades and even grow into small bonsai-like trees.
Echeveria
Echeveria’s symmetrical rosette shape makes it one of the most popular choices for indoor décor. These easy care succulent plants love bright light but can tolerate partial sun. They come in a wide variety of colors. Learn more about growing a succulent that thrives even with minimal attention.
Haworthia
If you’re searching for succulents that need little care, Haworthia is a must-have. Its zebra-like striped leaves add texture to any collection. It thrives in low to medium light and can survive long periods without water. Haworthia is one of the easiest succulents to grow indoors, especially in small apartments or offices.
Panda Plant (Kalanchoe Tomentosa)
The Panda Plant features fuzzy leaves with dark edges, giving it a distinctive, soft appearance. It’s incredibly drought-tolerant and thrives in bright but indirect sunlight. Water it sparingly. Its velvety texture helps retain moisture for long periods. With its cute look and simple care, it’s a favorite among beginner gardeners.
Snake Plant (Sansevieria Trifasciata)
Often listed as one of the best indoor succulents for beginners, the Snake Plant is practically indestructible. It tolerates low light and irregular watering schedules. Just water when the soil is completely dry. Its upright leaves make it a stylish choice for modern homes and offices while also purifying the air naturally.
Zebra Plant (Haworthiopsis Fasciata)
Similar to Haworthia, the Zebra Plant is compact and perfect for small indoor spaces. It’s a self-sustaining succulent that thrives under moderate light and needs very little watering. Its white-striped leaves make it a striking accent on windowsills or desks.
Burro’s Tail (Sedum Morganianum)
This trailing succulent produces long, cascading stems covered with plump, tear-shaped leaves. It loves bright light but doesn’t need constant watering, once every 2–3 weeks is enough. Its hanging stems look beautiful in hanging pots or on shelves. If you want to create a mix of drought tolerant succulents, Burro’s Tail is a must.
Zebra Cactus (Haworthia Attenuata)
Don’t confuse this with the Zebra Plant. This cactus version grows in tighter clusters and requires almost no maintenance. It’s among the most reliable low water succulents that stay green year-round. To help it thrive, use the best soil mix for succulents to prevent root rot and overwatering.
String of Pearls (Senecio Rowleyanus)
Known for its unique, bead-like leaves that hang elegantly, String of Pearls is one of the most eye-catching succulents. It thrives in bright, indirect light and requires very little water. Let the soil dry completely between watering sessions. If you’re new to plant lighting, check out the beginner’s guide to indoor plant lighting to find the best spot for it.
Why These Succulents Are Perfect for Busy Plant Lovers
What makes these succulents special is their ability to adapt. Many of them evolved in arid environments, storing water in their leaves and stems to survive dry spells. This means they can handle missed watering sessions without stress. Using a well-draining soil mix and pots with drainage holes helps maintain the perfect balance of moisture. You can learn more about ideal soil types in why professional soil matters.
Lighting also plays a big role in how well your succulents grow. Most of these varieties do well in bright, indirect sunlight, but a few like Snake Plants and Haworthias can tolerate lower light levels. For compact homes or office setups, these are truly the best indoor succulents for beginners.
Simple Tips to Keep Your Succulents Happy
Even though these plants are easy to care for, a few small habits will keep them thriving for years:
- Water only when dry: Check the top inch of soil before watering.
- Choose the right soil: Go for cactus or succulent mixes for proper drainage.
- Provide good light: Bright, filtered sunlight works best for most species.
- Avoid overwatering: Root rot is the most common issue for new plant owners.
- Wipe leaves gently: Keep dust off leaves so they can absorb more light.
If you’re unsure which plant fits your routine, the best indoor cacti for beginners article offers great suggestions for pairing succulents and cacti in one space.
Bringing Nature Home Effortlessly
Low maintenance succulents are proof that you don’t need to be a plant expert to enjoy greenery in your home. They thrive with minimal attention and reward you with beauty, color, and calm energy. For apartment dwellers, travelers, or anyone new to plant care, these easy care succulent plants make the perfect starting point.
With the right soil, lighting, and a consistent (but infrequent) watering routine, your succulents can last for years. If you’re ready to start your plant journey, check out Leaves & Soul’s collection of succulents and growing essentials to help you create a thriving indoor oasis.
The Effortless Beauty of Low Maintenance Succulents
Aloe Vera, String of Pearls, and other easygoing succulents make plant care simple. They’re beautiful, low maintenance, and perfect for adding life to your space without the fuss. For more plant wisdom and inspiration, explore Leaves & Soul’s growing library of care guides and plant insights.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Water Low Maintenance Succulents?
Most low maintenance succulents only need watering every two to three weeks. Always let the soil dry completely between watering sessions to prevent root rot.
What Are The Best Succulents For Beginners?
Great beginner friendly succulents include Aloe Vera, Jade Plant, Haworthia, and Snake Plant. These varieties tolerate irregular watering and adjust well to indoor lighting conditions.
Can Succulents Survive In Low Light Rooms?
Yes, some succulents like Snake Plant and Zebra Plant can thrive in low light spaces. However, most still prefer bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth and color.
What Type Of Soil Should I Use For Succulents?
Use a fast-draining mix specifically made for cacti and succulents. This prevents excess moisture from sitting in the roots, which can lead to rot or fungus issues.
How Do I Tell If My Succulent Needs More Sunlight?
If your succulent looks stretched or pale, it’s a sign of insufficient light. Move it to a brighter spot or supplement with grow lights to help it regain color and compact shape.