Complete Gardening
Sharing is caring, especially when it comes to houseplants. Whether you’re looking to add some greenery to your space without breaking the bank, or just want to try your hand at propagating, borrowing plants from friends can be a delightful journey. Here’s a guide on 20 houseplants that you can borrow and grow for free, each with its own unique charm and propagation method.
1. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos, known for its heart-shaped leaves, is a staple in many households due to its adaptability. Thriving in low light, this plant is perfect for those dim corners where other plants might struggle. Simply take a stem cutting and place it in water or soil, and watch it grow! With its quick growth and minimal care needs, Pothos is a fantastic choice for new plant parents. Its ability to purify the air makes it not only a beautiful addition but also a healthy one. Borrow a cutting from a friend and start your own Pothos adventure.
2. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
The Spider Plant is a classic favorite for its unique appearance and ease of care. Known for producing abundant spiderettes, this plant quickly fills space with greenery. To propagate, simply plant these baby spiderettes in soil or water. Its ability to thrive with minimal attention makes it ideal for busy individuals. Spider Plants not only beautify your space but also improve air quality. A friend’s plant can easily provide you with new spiderettes to start your own collection. Discover the joy of watching these little plants grow and expand in your home.
3. Snake Plant (Sansevieria/Dracaena trifasciata)
Nearly indestructible, the Snake Plant is perfect for those who might forget their green friends at times. Its resilience to neglect makes it a popular choice for beginners and travelers. Propagation is a breeze; just use leaf cuttings or divide the rhizomes. The plant is not only visually striking but also acts as a natural air purifier. Sharing a piece with a friend can help kickstart your indoor garden. Experience the satisfaction of seeing this hardy plant thrive in your space. Its unique look adds a touch of modern elegance to any room.
4. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
With its glossy, waxy leaves, the ZZ Plant is a symbol of perseverance. Known for surviving in low-light and drought conditions, it’s a favorite for offices and homes alike. While it’s slow to propagate, using leaf or stem cuttings in soil can eventually yield results. The ZZ Plant’s low-maintenance nature makes it perfect for those new to plant care. Borrowing a cutting allows you to experience the beauty and simplicity of this resilient plant. Enjoy the lush greenery it brings, adding a touch of tranquility to your environment.
5. Philodendron (Heartleaf & Others)
Philodendrons, with their heart-shaped leaves, are beloved for their adaptability and fast growth. These plants can thrive in various environments, making them ideal for any home. Propagating them is straightforward; just take a stem cutting and place it in water or soil. Their lush, trailing nature adds a tropical feel to any space. Sharing a cutting with a friend is a wonderful way to spread greenery and joy. Watch as your Philodendron quickly becomes a centerpiece in your home, bringing nature’s beauty indoors with ease and grace.
6. Tradescantia (Wandering Dude/Inch Plant)
Tradescantia, often known as Wandering Dude, is a vibrant addition to any home with its striking colors. Its fast-growing nature and ease of propagation make it a popular choice for many. Simply take stem cuttings and root them in water or soil. The plant’s colorful foliage adds a lively touch to any space, brightening even the dullest corners. Sharing a piece with a friend allows for easy expansion of your indoor garden. Experience the joy of watching this plant quickly grow and transform your living area with its unique charm.
7. Monstera Deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant)
Monstera Deliciosa, with its iconic split leaves, is a favorite among plant enthusiasts. This tropical beauty thrives in bright, indirect light and adds a bold statement to any space. Propagating is simple: use a stem cutting with a node and place it in water or soil. Its large, perforated leaves create a lush, exotic vibe, perfect for modern interiors. Borrowing a cutting from a friend lets you enjoy this plant’s dramatic effect without the cost. Watch as it quickly becomes the centerpiece of your indoor jungle, bringing tropical allure into your home.
8. String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)
String of Pearls is a unique trailing succulent with bead-like leaves that add a whimsical touch to any collection. Its delicate strands create an eye-catching display when placed in hanging pots. Propagating involves laying cuttings or strands on soil, where they root easily. Ideal for those who love distinct and quirky plants, this succulent thrives in bright light and minimal water. By borrowing a strand from a friend, you can start your own cascading green curtain. Enjoy its playful appearance as it grows, adding a touch of fun to your indoor space.
9. Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
Jade Plant, known for its longevity, is a symbol of prosperity and friendship. With its thick, oval leaves and tree-like appearance, it adds a touch of elegance to any setting. Propagating is simple: take a leaf or stem cutting and plant it in soil. This succulent is forgiving and requires minimal care, making it perfect for busy individuals. Sharing a piece with a friend is like gifting a symbol of good fortune. Watch as the Jade Plant thrives and grows, becoming a steadfast companion in your home, adding vitality and charm.
10. Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera, renowned for its soothing properties, is a must-have for any home. Its fleshy, green leaves are not only decorative but also practical for treating minor burns and skin issues. Propagating involves removing offsets (pups) from the mother plant. This hardy plant thrives with little care, requiring only bright light and occasional watering. By borrowing an offset from a friend, you can cultivate your own healing garden. Enjoy the dual benefits of Aloe Vera—its aesthetic appeal and its ability to provide natural remedies, all while enhancing your home’s decor.
11. Peperomia (Various Types)
Peperomia, with its diverse range of leaf shapes and textures, is a delightful addition for plant enthusiasts. These compact plants are perfect for small spaces, thriving in medium to low light. Propagation is a breeze with leaf or stem cuttings in water or soil. Each variety offers something unique, from rippled to heart-shaped leaves. Sharing a cutting from a friend allows you to explore this plant’s versatility. Discover the charm of Peperomia as it adorns your home with its intricate foliage, adding a subtle yet captivating touch to your collection.
12. Begonia (Rex, Angel Wing, etc.)
Begonias, known for their dazzling foliage and flowers, bring a splash of color to any space. With varieties like Rex and Angel Wing, each offers a unique visual appeal. Propagation through leaf or stem cuttings in water or soil is straightforward. These plants thrive in bright, indirect light, making them an indoor favorite. Sharing a cutting with a friend helps spread their beauty. Enjoy the stunning patterns and hues of Begonias as they flourish in your home, providing not only visual delight but also a conversation starter for plant lovers.
13. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
Rubber Plants, with their bold, glossy leaves, make a statement in any room. Known for their striking appearance, they’re a favorite among indoor gardeners. Propagation can be done through stem cuttings or air layering. These plants thrive in bright, indirect light and require moderate watering. Sharing a cutting allows you to enjoy its lush beauty and air-purifying benefits. As a focal point, the Rubber Plant enhances your space with its robust look. Invite its elegance into your home, where it can grow and flourish, bringing vitality to your indoor environment.
14. Chinese Money Plant (Pilea peperomioides)
Chinese Money Plant, with its quirky, round leaves, is both charming and easy to grow. Its playful appearance makes it a favorite for modern interiors. Propagation is simple: plantlets (pups) can be removed from the base and potted separately. This plant thrives in bright light and moderate watering. Sharing pups allows you to spread its cheer and add a touch of whimsy to any room. Enjoy the joy of watching it grow and multiply, turning your home into a haven of greenery and positive energy. Perfect for those who love unique and low-maintenance plants.
15. Coleus (Plectranthus scutellarioides)
Coleus, known for its vibrant, multicolored foliage, brings life and color to any setting. This plant is a fantastic choice for those who love diversity in their plant collection. Propagation is quick and easy with stem cuttings rooted in water. Coleus thrives in bright, indirect light, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor spaces. Sharing a cutting allows you to enhance your home’s greenery with its colorful charm. Watch as it grows and adds a splash of color, transforming your environment into a lively and inviting space.
16. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
English Ivy, with its classic, trailing vines, is perfect for those who love a touch of nature indoors. Its cascading growth makes it ideal for hanging baskets or trailing over shelves. Propagating is simple with stem cuttings in water or soil. This plant thrives in various light conditions, adding greenery to any corner. Borrowing a cutting from a friend can quickly enhance your indoor garden. Enjoy the calming effect of its lush, green tendrils as they wind their way through your living space, bringing elegance and tranquility to your home.
17. Hoya (Wax Plant)
Hoyas, known for their thick, waxy leaves and fragrant flowers, are a delightful addition to any plant collection. Their unique appearance and long-lasting blooms make them a favorite among indoor gardeners. Propagation involves taking stem cuttings with nodes and rooting them in water or soil. This plant thrives in bright, indirect light, offering a slow-growing but rewarding experience. Sharing a cutting allows you to add its beauty and aroma to your space. Enjoy the serene ambiance it creates, enhancing your home with its delicate flowers and lush foliage.
18. Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera)
The Christmas Cactus, with its vibrant winter blooms, is a beloved holiday plant. Known for its ability to flower with minimal care, it brightens up any room during the colder months. Propagation is easy with stem segments that root well in soil. This plant thrives in bright, indirect light and infrequent watering. Sharing a cutting allows you to enjoy its cheerful blooms and share festive joy. Watch as it becomes a holiday staple in your home, adding color and warmth with its beautiful flowers that defy the winter chill.
19. African Violet (Saintpaulia)
African Violets, with their compact size and frequent blooms, are a favorite for indoor gardeners. Their delicate flowers and soft leaves create a charming display in any space. Propagation is simple with leaf cuttings in water or soil. These plants thrive in bright, indirect light, making them suitable for windowsills. Sharing a cutting allows you to enjoy its beauty and share the joy of frequent blooms. Watch as your African Violet flourishes, adding elegance and color to your home, while also providing a touch of natural beauty year-round.
20. Mint (Indoor Herb Garden)
Mint, a staple in any herb garden, is not only fast-growing but also highly useful in cooking. Its fresh, aromatic leaves are a delight to have on hand. Propagation is simple: take stem cuttings and root them in water. This herb thrives indoors, especially on a sunny windowsill. Sharing a cutting allows you to enjoy its fresh flavor while adding greenery to your kitchen. Watch as your mint plant flourishes, providing a constant supply of fresh leaves for cooking and garnishing, enhancing both your culinary creations and your indoor garden.