.jpeg?trim=0,0,0,0&crop=&width=640&quality=70&enable=upscale)
It’s always nice to have a few houseplants in your home - providing some greenery and helping to keep the air clean (although the impact they have is regularly overstated).
There’s even some evidence that they are good for your mental health and can even reduce your energy bills.
Unfortunately many of us are a bit rubbish at taking care of our indoor greenery, with the time it takes between an impulse supermarket purchase and the plant’s inevitable death best measured in days rather than weeks.
Luckily, there are a few plants that can survive - even thrive - when they are neglected by their owners.
Here are 13 of the hardiest.
.jpeg?crop=4:3&trim=&width=800)
5. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos is a fast-growing, trailing vine with heart-shaped leaves. It adapts to various lighting conditions, requires minimal watering, and can help purify the air. It’s perfect for indoor hanging baskets or letting cascade over shelves. If you forget about them for a couple of weeks it'll put them neither up nor down. | Canva/Getty Images
.jpeg?crop=4:3&trim=&width=800)
6. Peace lily (Spathiphyllum)
Many plant parents have come back from a holiday to be greeted by what looks like a dead Peace Lily, only to see them complete a Lazarus-like comeback once the curtains are opened and their parched earth has been watered. Their dark green leaves and (very, in our experience) occasional pretty white blooms make them a beautiful yet resilient addition to any home. | Canva/Getty Images
.jpeg?crop=4:3&trim=&width=800)
7. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller)
This succulent is not only tough but also useful, with its gel providing relief for burns and skin irritation - just snap off a leaf and squeeze out the green fluid. Aloe vera thrives in bright, indirect light and requires very little watering, making it perfect for forgetful plant owners. In fact, the easiest way to kill an Aloe Vera is by overwatering, so it's best not to be too attentive. | Canva/Getty Images
.jpeg?crop=4:3&trim=&width=800)
8. Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron scandens)
Similar to pothos, philodendrons are easy to grow and tolerate low light and irregular watering. The Heartleaf Philodendron, in particular, is a popular choice due to its resilience - and is a trailing plant so perfect for indoor hanging baskets. Pop one up at the side of a window and you'll almost be able to see it thrive and grow. | Canva/Getty Images