21 Small Houseplants For Beginners That Will Fit Even In the Tiniest Living Spaces

If you think your cozy apartment is too cramped for the lively addition of indoor plants, think again! Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need vast spaces to embrace the benefits of greenery. Integrating small indoor plants into your living areas not only purifies the air but also boosts your mood and adds a stylish flair to your decor. Compact plants, such as delightful succulents and air plants, are perfect for desks or nightstands. Slightly larger yet space-saving options, like peace lilies, can enhance a corner without crowding it.

Don’t stop at just placing them around—get creative with their presentation, using chic hanging planters or innovative vertical wall gardens. Explore the joy of indoor gardening with this guide to the best tiny houseplants for small spaces, designed to elevate your spirits and beautify even the smallest nooks!

Air Plant

Air plants, or Tillandsias, are unique because they do not require soil to grow. This quality makes them incredibly versatile and easy to incorporate into various decorative settings, from glass globes to ceramic holders designed for wall mounting. They are perfect for creating a modern, airy feel in any apartment space.

Care tips:

Sun Needs: Thrives in bright, indirect sunlight.
Water Needs: Requires regular misting and soaking.
Best Place to Put It: Hang in a well-ventilated terrarium or on mounted displays.
Pro: No soil is required, making it exceptionally easy to display and maintain.
Con: Needs good air circulation, which can be challenging in tightly closed spaces.

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is renowned not only for its sleek, architectural appearance but also for its practical uses. The gel inside its leaves is rich in vitamins and can be used to soothe burns and hydrate skin, making it a practical plant to keep around. Its ease of care and health benefits make it an excellent choice for any home.

Care tips:

Sun Needs: Prefers bright, direct sunlight.
Water Needs: Allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
Best Place to Put It: Sunny kitchen windowsill or sunny indoor spot.
Pro: Acts as a natural remedy for minor skin irritations like burns.
Con: Overwatering can easily lead to root rot.

Anthurium

Anthuriums add a striking visual element with glossy leaves and bright, heart-shaped blooms. They are often called “Flamingo Flowers” and are highly effective at purifying the air. They are ideal for those who wish to inject some color and vitality into their living space.

Care tips:

Sun Needs: Bright, indirect sunlight.
Water Needs: Keep evenly moist but not soggy.
Best Place to Put It: Any room that receives filtered light.
Pro: Offers a vibrant splash of color with its heart-shaped flowers.
Con: Can be sensitive to overwatering and require precise humidity levels.

Asparagus Fern

The Asparagus Fern is a fluffy, light, and airy plant that adds a certain poise to your indoor garden. While not a true fern, it belongs to the lily family and is appreciated for its robust and feathery fern-like foliage, which adds a wonderful green backdrop to any decor.

Care tips:

Sun Needs: Prefers bright, indirect light.
Water Needs: Likes consistently moist soil.
Best Place to Put It: On shelves or tables with room to spread.
Pro: Adds lush, feathery greenery to any setting.
Con: Leaves can be sharp, and the plant can be invasive if not contained.