Embrace the beauty and simplicity of hydroponic gardening with our curated list of the best plants to grow in water—no messy soil needed!
These plants not only enhance your living space but also offer an innovative way to indulge in indoor gardening.
From the ease of growing houseplants in water to the minimal maintenance required, this list explores a variety of plants that thrive in a water environment.
Whether you’re using glass jars or containers of water, these selections will transform your approach to plant care, offering a mess-free, soil-free, and uniquely charming way to keep your home green.
Let’s dive into indoor plants that grow in water.
Table of Contents
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Also known as Devil’s Ivy, Pothos is a hardy and versatile houseplant. It thrives in water, rooting easily and requiring minimal maintenance.
Simply place a cutting in a glass of water, ensuring the nodes are submerged. Change the water every few weeks and add a water-soluble fertilizer monthly. Pothos doesn’t need direct sunlight and can grow vigorously in water.
Its heart-shaped leaves and trailing vines make it a visually appealing addition to any indoor water garden.
Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)
Lucky Bamboo, despite its common name, isn’t a true bamboo but a species of Dracaena.
It’s a popular choice for water growth, often used in Feng Shui for its luck-bringing qualities.
Use clean, fresh water and change it every week to prevent algae.
This plant can grow in water—no soil needed—and prefers bright, indirect light. Rainwater or bottled water is recommended if your tap water is high in chlorine.
Philodendron (Philodendron spp.)
Philodendrons are known for their lush, tropical foliage and ease of care. These plants root readily in water and are ideal for hydroponic setups.
They come in various types, including the heart-leaf philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum), adding diversity to indoor water gardens.
Philodendrons easily grow roots in water and are among the best plants for water growth.
Change the water every couple of weeks and add a drop of fertilizer. Keep the water level consistent, and place the container in a spot with indirect sunlight.
Tradescantia (Tradescantia spp.)
Commonly referred to as Spiderwort, inch plant or wandering dude, Tradescantia species are known for their striking striped leaves and delicate flowers.
They root easily in water and are perfect for creating a lush, water-based indoor garden. Tradescantia fluminensis and Tradescantia zebrina are popular varieties.
Make sure to change the water every week to keep it clean.
These plants grow best in bright, indirect light. Add a tiny amount of fertilizer to the water every month for better growth in the water.
English Ivy (Hedera helix)
English Ivy, a classic and elegant vine, is known for its ability to purify air. It can root and grow in water, although it requires a bit more attention to maintain health. It’s a perfect choice for a water-based hanging plant display.
For English Ivy, start with a cutting and place it in a container of water.
Change out the water regularly to keep it fresh.
English Ivy can grow in water—no direct sun needed, but bright, indirect light promotes better growth.
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
The Spider Plant, also known as airplane plant, is renowned for its air-purifying qualities and ease of care.
It can be started in water, though it prefers soil for long-term growth. Its variegated leaves add a splash of color to any setting.
Place the plantlets in water, making sure the roots are submerged. Change the water every few weeks and add a mild fertilizer occasionally.
They prefer bright, indirect light and can thrive in a water environment.
Monstera (Monstera deliciosa)
Often called the Swiss Cheese Plant, Monstera is beloved for its unique, perforated leaves.
It can be propagated in water but does better in soil as it matures. This tropical plant adds a dramatic flair to any interior.
To propagate in water, remove any soil from the roots and place the cutting in a jar of water. Change the water regularly to prevent stagnation.
Monsteras need indirect light and can be transitioned to soil or kept in water.
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum spp.)
Peace Lilies are known for their striking white flowers and dark green leaves.
They can adapt to water-based environments, though they may not bloom as frequently. This plant is also noted for its air-purifying capabilities.
Change the water every couple of weeks and make sure the roots are always submerged.
These plants don’t need direct sunlight but do well in bright, indirect light.
Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)
The Fiddle Leaf Fig is known for its large, violin-shaped leaves and is a trendy addition to modern interiors.
It’s more challenging to grow in water but can be propagated this way. This plant prefers bright, indirect light.
Begonia (Begonia spp.)
Begonias are admired for their beautiful flowers and foliage.
Some varieties can be propagated in water, although they usually prefer soil for long-term growth.
These plants add a touch of elegance to any indoor space.
Coleus (Plectranthus scutellarioides)
Coleus, with its vibrant and varied foliage, is a striking plant for any indoor water garden.
It roots easily in water and can be maintained in this medium for extended periods. The plant’s bright colors make it a delightful visual accent.
