Did you know that many plants can thrive in water alone, without the need for soil? This method, known as hydroponic or water-based gardening, is an easy and mess-free way to grow greenery indoors while adding a stylish touch to your home.
From kitchen herbs like basil and mint to ornamental plants like lucky bamboo and pothos, several species can develop strong roots and grow beautifully in jars, vases, or glass containers filled with water. This technique requires minimal maintenance—just fresh water, occasional nutrients, and a bright spot—making it perfect for busy plant lovers or small-space gardening.
Explore these 15 incredible plants that can grow in water, and learn how to keep them healthy, vibrant, and thriving year-round!
Lucky Bamboo
With its striking upright stems, lucky bamboo is a favorite for those seeking tranquility and inspiration. It’s not a bamboo at all but a member of the Dracaena family, requiring minimal attention. Place it in indirect sunlight, and it will stand tall and graceful. This plant is often associated with feng shui, believed to bring good fortune and positive energy. Changing the water every couple of weeks keeps it fresh. Lucky bamboo’s elegant appearance makes it a popular choice for offices and modern homes. It thrives in water, making it perfect for busy lifestyles.
Pothos
Known for its cascading vines, pothos is a resilient plant that thrives even in low light. Its heart-shaped leaves come in various shades, from deep green to golden hues, adding a touch of nature to any space. Simply snip a vine and place it in water. Within a few weeks, roots will develop, and the plant will flourish. Pothos is renowned for purifying the air, making it an ideal choice for bedrooms and living rooms. It’s as easy to care for as it is beautiful, withstanding occasional neglect without losing its charm.
Philodendron
With its robust leaves and easy-going nature, philodendron is perfect for anyone new to hydroponics. Known for its adaptability, it thrives in various conditions, making it a versatile choice. Clip a cutting and immerse it in water, and watch the roots unfurl with time. Philodendrons are excellent indoor plants, known for their air-purifying qualities. They can add a touch of greenery to offices, kitchens, or any room that needs a splash of vitality. The simplicity of their care routine makes them a beloved choice for plant lovers.
Spider Plant
The spider plant, with its fountain-like leaves and charming little offshoots, is a joyful addition to any interior. It’s effortlessly propagated by placing the “spiderettes” in water, where they quickly sprout roots. This plant is celebrated for its air-cleaning properties, battling indoor pollutants effectively. Spider plants are known to adapt well to various lighting conditions, flourishing in both sunlit and shaded areas. Their playful foliage and low-maintenance nature make them a favorite among busy homeowners looking to add some greenery.
Peace Lily
With its glossy dark leaves and white flowers, the peace lily is both elegant and unassuming. It excels in water, requiring only occasional water changes to stay healthy. Known for its ability to purify the air, it’s a great plant to have in bedrooms or offices. The peace lily is not just about aesthetics; its presence can elevate the ambiance of a room, offering a sense of calm and serenity. Its blooms last for weeks, and it continues to grow gracefully, even in low light. It’s a perfect choice for those who appreciate beauty and simplicity.
English Ivy
English ivy is a classic choice for those who love trailing plants. Its variegated leaves add a touch of charm and elegance to any setting. Easy to grow in water, simply place a cutting in a jar and watch it thrive. Known for its air-purifying capabilities, English ivy is often used to reduce indoor airborne mold. It’s adaptable and can be placed in various locations around the home, from bathrooms to kitchens. Its ability to thrive without soil makes it perfect for creative indoor gardening projects.
Mint
Fresh mint is more than just a culinary delight; it’s a fragrant water-loving plant that’s easy to grow indoors. Place a few sprigs in water, and they’ll soon show new growth, providing a constant supply of aromatic leaves. Mint’s invigorating scent can freshen up any room, and it’s perfect for the kitchen, where it can be snipped for teas or recipes. It prefers bright, indirect light and requires minimal attention. Having mint in water means no messy soil, making it a clean and convenient addition to your indoor plant collection.
Begonia
Begonia, with its variety of colors and textures, brings vibrancy to any indoor setting. Known for its ornamental beauty, a begonia leaf can root easily in water, making it a delightful option for water gardening. Its foliage, ranging from deep green to burgundy, offers a visual treat. Begonias prefer indirect light and can thrive in various indoor environments. The plant’s ability to flourish in water adds to its appeal, allowing plant enthusiasts to experiment with different displays. Begonias are perfect for adding a splash of color to your space.
Coleus
Renowned for its eye-catching foliage, coleus is a standout choice for water gardening. The plant’s leaves display a spectrum of colors and patterns, making it a favorite for decorative purposes. Simply place a cutting in water, and it will quickly develop roots. Coleus thrives in bright, indirect light and brings life to any area with its vivid hues. It’s a versatile plant, suitable for both indoor and outdoor settings. The ease of growing coleus in water allows for creative arrangements, perfect for those who love to experiment with color.
Sweet Potato Vine
Sweet potato vine isn’t just for the garden; it’s a stunning indoor plant when grown in water. Its heart-shaped leaves create a lush display, perfect for adding greenery to your home. Place a tuber in water, and it will sprout vibrant vines in no time. The plant thrives in bright, indirect light and requires minimal maintenance. Its rapid growth rate makes it a favorite for those looking to quickly enhance their indoor garden. This vine can be an exciting project for kids and adults alike, offering both beauty and a bit of botanical fun.
Herbs (Basil, Oregano, etc.)
Growing herbs like basil and oregano in water is both practical and rewarding. These kitchen staples are perfect for water cultivation, providing fresh flavors at your fingertips. Simply place the cuttings in a jar of water and watch them flourish. They thrive in bright light, making a sunny kitchen window the ideal spot. Not only do they enhance your culinary creations, but they also add a touch of greenery to your space. Fresh herbs grown in water are a convenient choice for home cooks seeking quick access to aromatic ingredients.
Chinese Evergreen
Chinese evergreen, with its striking foliage, is a resilient plant that adapts well to water growth. Known for its patterned leaves, it adds a touch of sophistication to any indoor setting. This plant thrives in low to medium light, making it versatile for various locations. Simply take a cutting and immerse it in water; it will reward you with steady growth. Perfect for office spaces, it brings a subtle elegance without demanding much attention. Its hardy nature makes it a reliable choice for those new to indoor gardening.
Fiddle Leaf Fig
The fiddle leaf fig, known for its large, glossy leaves, is a statement plant even in its simplest form. Though often grown in soil, it can thrive in water with proper care. Place a leaf or cutting in water, ensuring it receives bright, indirect light, and watch as it develops roots. Its towering presence is perfect for modern interiors, adding height and interest. While it requires a bit more attention, the fiddle leaf fig rewards you with its lush growth, becoming a centerpiece in any room. Patience with this plant truly pays off.
Monstera
Monstera, with its iconic split leaves, is a favorite among plant enthusiasts. Known for its dramatic foliage, it can thrive in water, provided it gets bright, indirect sunlight. Simply take a cutting, place it in water, and let the roots develop. This plant’s unique appearance adds a tropical vibe to any space, making it a stylish choice for contemporary homes. Monstera is more than just a pretty face; it’s also easy to maintain, making it a top pick for those looking to add a touch of the exotic indoors.
Zebra Plant
With its distinctive striped leaves, the zebra plant is a striking option for water-based gardening. Known for its bold patterns, it brings a splash of personality to any room. Place a cutting in water and ensure it receives bright, indirect light to thrive. The zebra plant, though a bit finicky, rewards careful attention with its unique foliage. It’s an excellent choice for those who enjoy nurturing their plants, as it requires regular water changes. Its eye-catching appearance makes it a conversation starter, perfect for living spaces and offices.