Finding the best plants for plant lovers can feel overwhelming when you walk into a garden center or scroll through endless online listings. Whether you’re buying for a seasoned green thumb or someone just starting their indoor garden, the right plant makes all the difference. After all, plant lovers appreciate variety, low-maintenance options, and greenery that actually survives a busy schedule. That’s why we put together this list of 8 best plants for plant lovers for May 2025 – each one chosen for its resilience, visual appeal, and ability to bring joy without demanding constant attention.
From the nearly indestructible ZZ plant to the air-purifying snake plant, the options below cover a range of sizes, care levels, and price points. Whether you need a gift for a fellow plant enthusiast or want to treat yourself to something new, these picks span from $19.33 to $39.89 and come from trusted brands like CostaFarms, AltmanPlants, and Plantingseedsgrowingdreams. If you’re also curious about keeping your plants fed, check out our guide on best plant food for water propagation to complement your new greenery.
Pros
- Comprehensive kit: seeds, tools, planters, and instructions all included
- Extra seed packets boost your chances of success
- High germination rate seeds reduce beginner frustration
- Versatile gift for many occasions, suitable for any gender or age
- Compact and convenient for indoor gardening year-round
Cons
- Growing bonsai from seeds requires patience; results take months to see
- Only partial sun exposure recommended, limiting some indoor locations
- Packaging may be a bit basic for a premium gift presentation
The Avergo Bonsai Tree Kit is a complete indoor starter set designed for anyone curious about the art of bonsai. It includes five unique seed varieties: Crape Myrtle, Flame tree, Blue jacaranda, Pigeon Pea, and more. The kit also comes with planters, bonsai soil, tools, and detailed instructions, so you have everything you need from day one.
What really sets this kit apart is the inclusion of extra seed packets. Bonsai seeds can be finicky, and having extras means you can try again if your first attempt doesn't sprout. Avergo also claims higher germination rates for these seeds, which is a big plus for beginners. The tools are basic but functional, including a small rake and scissors for trimming miniature branches.
The kit is well-suited for indoor use, as the trees prefer partial sun. You'll need a spot near a window that gets indirect light. The planters are sturdy and have drainage holes, which is essential for healthy roots. The whole setup is compact, fitting easily on a desk or shelf.
One thing to keep in mind: growing a bonsai tree from seed takes patience. You won't have a miniature masterpiece in a week. Expect several months before the trees develop a trunk thick enough to start shaping. The kit is more about the journey and learning the process than instant gratification.
Overall, this is a solid choice for beginners who want a hands-on introduction to bonsai without buying a lot of separate pieces. It also makes a thoughtful gift for plant lovers or families looking for a fun indoor project. Just be ready to wait and enjoy the slow process of growing something from scratch.
Pros
- Very forgiving for beginners; tolerates low light and irregular watering
- Comes in a decorative pot that suits modern or traditional decor
- Air-purifying qualities help improve indoor air quality
- Compact upright growth makes it ideal for tight spots
- Long-lived plant that can thrive for years with simple care
Cons
- Decorative pot lacks drainage holes, increasing risk of overwatering
- Toxic if ingested, so not ideal for homes with curious pets or small children
- Height at delivery may vary, and mature size can reach 4 feet, which might outgrow small spaces
The Costa Farms Snake Plant delivers a classic houseplant with a modern twist. Also known as Mother-in-Law's Tongue or Sansevieria, this live plant comes in a 6-inch decorative pot and stands 12 to 20 inches tall at delivery. It's an excellent choice for anyone who wants indoor greenery without the fuss. Even if you have a black thumb, this plant's forgiving nature makes success almost certain.
The standout feature is its striking vertical foliage. The variegated green leaves create a sculptural look that fits seamlessly into farmhouse, traditional, or contemporary decor. It thrives in bright indirect light but also tolerates low light, so you can place it on a desk, tabletop, or floor. Watering is simple: about once a week with one cup, but you should adjust based on your home's conditions. The pot has no drainage holes, which is convenient for avoiding spills but does mean you must be careful not to overwater.
Beyond looks, this plant offers practical benefits. It's known for air-purifying qualities (though claims are modest) and is a long-term investment. With proper care, a snake plant can live for decades, growing slowly to a mature height of about 4 feet. It's also drought tolerant, so if you forget to water for a week or two, it will forgive you.
One honest drawback: the lack of drainage holes in the decorative pot requires careful watering to prevent root rot. Also, the plant is toxic if eaten, so keep it away from pets and children. The variety you receive is assorted (Laurentii or Zeylanica), so there's a small surprise factor.
Overall, the Costa Farms Snake Plant is a solid buy for novice and experienced plant owners alike. It combines effortless care with lasting beauty, arriving ready to display. If you want a low-maintenance, stylish houseplant that adds life to your space, this is a great pick.
Pros
- Wide variety of popular indoor plants in each pack, with seasonal surprises
- Compact size fits well in small spaces like apartments and offices
- Healthy, well-rooted plants with careful packaging and heat packs for cold weather
- Excellent customer service with quick replacements for damaged shipments
- Affordable price for 12 plants, making it a great value for starting a collection
Cons
- Some plants may arrive with overly wet or dry soil, requiring immediate repotting
- Variety is seasonal, so you might get duplicates if you order multiple packs
- Cold weather below 32°F can cause damage; best to order when temperatures are warmer
The Altman Plants 12-Pack of live houseplants is a delightful way to bring a burst of greenery into your home or office. Each pack includes a rotating assortment of popular indoor plants like Pothos, Peperomia, Spider Plants, and more, all grown in 2-inch pots. This makes them ideal for small spaces such as desks, windowsills, shelves, or terrariums, and they're a fantastic choice for both beginner plant parents and seasoned collectors looking to expand their collection.
One of the standout features is the seasonal rotation: you get a fresh mix of varieties with each order, so there's always something new to discover. The plants are low-maintenance, thriving in indirect bright light and needing water only when the soil is dry. Real-world performance from reviews shows that most plants arrive healthy and well-rooted, with careful packaging that includes heat packs for cold weather. However, some reviewers note that the soil can be overly wet or dry, so it's a good idea to repot them immediately to give them the best start.
Design and build quality are solid: the plants are compact and vibrant, with a mix of colors and textures that add visual interest. The only potential drawback is that you might get duplicates if you order multiple packs, but the company's customer service is excellent, quickly replacing any damaged plants. Overall, this is a great value for the price, offering a fun and affordable way to enjoy live plants at home.
If you're looking for a gift for a plant lover or want to start your own indoor garden, this 12-pack is a reliable choice. Just be mindful of cold weather when ordering, and you'll be rewarded with healthy, happy plants.
Pros
- Striking braided trunk gives it a unique, decorative appearance.
- Very low maintenance; forgiving if you forget to water occasionally.
- Comes in a nice decorative pot ready to display.
- Pet friendly and non-toxic to cats and dogs.
- Reputable brand with responsive customer service for replacements.
Cons
- Some plants arrive with yellowing or damaged leaves due to shipping stress.
- May be smaller than expected in leaf fullness compared to product photos.
- A few customers report the plant declines after a few months despite proper care.
The Costa Farms Money Tree (Pachira aquatica) is a popular indoor plant known for its braided trunk and glossy, hand-shaped leaves. It's widely regarded as a symbol of good luck and prosperity in Feng Shui, which makes it a thoughtful gift for housewarmings, birthdays, or office celebrations. This live plant arrives in a decorative pot, standing 12 to 16 inches tall, and is ready to brighten your home or workspace right out of the box.
What sets this money tree apart is its unique braided trunk, which gives it an elegant, sculptural look that fits a variety of decor styles from boho to modern minimalist. The foliage is lush and airy, adding a fresh, tropical feel to any room. It's also an air-purifying plant, which can help improve indoor air quality. Care is straightforward: it thrives in bright, indirect light with weekly watering, and it's forgiving if you occasionally forget. Plus, it's pet friendly, so no worries if your cat or dog takes a nibble.
In terms of real-world performance, most buyers receive a healthy, well-packaged plant that settles in nicely. Costa Farms has a reputation for honoring their guarantee, quickly sending replacements if a plant arrives damaged. However, some customers have reported issues like yellowing leaves, broken branches, or a plant that declines within a few months despite following care instructions. These cases seem to be the minority, but they are worth noting. The plant's size and leafiness can also vary, and it may look less full than the product photos suggest.
Design and build quality are solid for a live plant. The decorative plastic pot is simple but attractive, and the braided trunk feels sturdy. Over time, with proper care, the money tree can grow taller (up to 10 feet indoors) and develop a thicker trunk. Pinching back the tips helps keep it bushy and compact. The included Greg app subscription is a nice bonus for tracking watering and light needs.
Overall, the Costa Farms Money Tree is a great choice for anyone wanting an easy-care, good-luck plant that adds a touch of nature to their space. It's especially suited for beginners, gift-givers, or those with pets. Just be aware of potential variability in plant condition upon arrival, and don't hesitate to contact Costa Farms if you have issues. For the price, it's a worthwhile investment in greenery and good vibes.
Pros
- Comes with a mix of easy-care, air-purifying plants that are great for beginners.
- Sturdy packaging ensures plants arrive in good condition, even in colder weather.
- Each plant is about 8-12 inches tall, a nice size for desks, shelves, or tabletops.
- Includes a free app subscription for personalized care reminders, making plant care simpler.
- Versatile as a gift or personal decor, with a variety of species that add visual interest.
Cons
- The exact plant varieties are not guaranteed, so you might not get your top picks.
- Plants come in basic nursery pots, not decorative containers, so you may want to repot for aesthetics.
- Requires bright indirect light, which could limit placement in darker rooms.
The Costa Farms Live Indoor Plant Pack of 4 is a convenient way to bring a bit of nature into your home or office without needing a green thumb. This set includes assorted foliage plants like Peace Lily, Snake Plant, Fern, or Pothos, all chosen for their easy-care nature and air-purifying qualities. It's a practical choice for beginners, busy professionals, or anyone looking to add some life to a small space without a big time commitment.
These plants are grown on a family-run farm and shipped fresh, arriving in 4-inch nursery pots that are about 8 to 12 inches tall. The packaging is well done, with careful handling to minimize stress during transit. Once they arrive, you just need to place them in bright, indirect light and water about once a week with half a cup of water, making sure the excess drains away. The included Greg app subscription is a nice bonus, offering tailored care reminders that take the guesswork out of plant maintenance.
Design-wise, the plants themselves are healthy and vibrant, though the black plastic nursery pots are purely functional. If you want them to match your decor, you'll likely want to repot into something more stylish. The assortment means you get a nice mix of textures and shapes, which adds visual variety to any room. They're also a thoughtful gift for housewarmings or holidays, since they're living and long-lasting with proper care.
One honest drawback is that you don't get to choose the exact species in your pack, so if you have a strong preference for a specific plant, this might not be ideal. Also, while these are low-maintenance, they do need that bright indirect light, so they won't thrive in a dark corner. For most people, though, these are minor trade-offs for the convenience and value.
Overall, the Costa Farms 4-pack delivers on its promise of easy, air-purifying greenery that fits into most lifestyles. It's a reliable, no-fuss way to start a plant collection or give a gift that keeps on giving. If you're looking for an affordable and practical introduction to indoor plants, this set is a solid choice.
Pros
- Diverse mix of colors, shapes, and textures in one purchase
- Low maintenance ideal for beginners or busy plant owners
- Healthy arrival guaranteed with hand-picked, fully rooted plants
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use with proper light
- Cost-effective way to start or bulk up a succulent collection
Cons
- Plants arrive in small 2-inch pots that may need repotting soon
- No control over exact variety selection - each pack is a surprise
- Not all varieties are pet-safe, so caution needed around animals
The Altman Plants 20 Pack Live Succulent Plants is a curated assortment of mini succulents that brings the joy of low-maintenance greenery to any space. Each pack contains 20 individual 2-inch pots with a mix of popular genera like Echeveria, Graptosedum, and Crassula. This set is ideal for beginners who want a forgiving plant collection or for seasoned enthusiasts looking to add variety without hunting for single pots.
Standout features include the sheer diversity - you get 10 pairs of two identical varieties, making it easy to create symmetrical arrangements or share with friends. The plants are grown by Altman Plants, the world's largest succulent cultivator, so you're getting robust specimens bred for resilience. The succulents thrive in bright light with infrequent watering, living up to their reputation as nearly maintenance-free.
Build quality is solid: each succulent arrives in a standard 2-inch plastic nursery pot with well-draining cactus and succulent soil. The packaging ensures minimal damage during shipping. While the pots are functional, some users may want to transfer them to decorative containers immediately. The random assortment adds an element of surprise, which most find exciting but could disappoint those seeking specific cultivars.
One potential drawback is that the small pot size may require repotting within a few months as the plants grow. Also, not all varieties are labeled pet-safe, so households with curious pets should verify each type. The lack of a detailed variety list is a minor inconvenience for planning purposes.
Overall, this succulent pack delivers exceptional value and visual appeal for its price. It's a fantastic way to experiment with different textures and colors without committing to large plants. Whether you're decorating a desk, building a terrarium, or gifting a plant lover, this collection offers a satisfying and hassle-free experience.
Pros
- Complete kit with all necessary items included (seeds, soil, pot, tools, instructions)
- High germination rate seeds with extra packets to improve success
- Great for a relaxing indoor project or a family bonding activity
- Thoughtful gift packaging and clear instructions make it easy to give and use
- Company stands behind the product with a germination promise
Cons
- The included pot may crack or split when the soil expands after watering (some users recommend reinforcing it with tape)
- Growing bonsai from seed requires patience and careful attention to instructions; it may feel complex for absolute beginners
- The ceramic planter shown in some product images is not actually included in the kit
The Jacaranda Bonsai Starter Kit by Avergo is a complete indoor growing set that includes everything you need to grow your own miniature Jacaranda tree from seed. Aimed at both newcomers and seasoned plant enthusiasts, this kit comes with premium seeds, a biodegradable pot, expanding bonsai soil, mini gardening tools, and easy-to-follow instructions. It is an ideal gift for anyone who enjoys hands-on projects or wants to add a unique piece of living art to their home.
What sets this kit apart is the inclusion of extra seed packets and a high-germination-rate promise. Many users report successful sprouting within a few weeks, especially when they follow the soaking and planting steps carefully. The instructions are clear and guide you through the entire process, from preparing the soil to caring for the seedling. While some reviews mention that the pot can crack when the soil expands after watering, this can be prevented by reinforcing the pot with tape before planting. Overall, the kit delivers a rewarding experience for those willing to invest a little patience.
Design-wise, the kit is simple but functional. The tools are small but sturdy, and the pot is designed to be biodegradable. However, keep in mind that the ceramic planter shown in some promotional images is not included. The kit is lightweight and compact, making it easy to store or gift. Several customers have noted that it is a fun activity to do with kids, and the bonus of watching the tree grow over time adds a sense of accomplishment.
On the downside, growing a bonsai from seed is inherently slow, and some beginners may find the process more involved than expected. A handful of reviews mention that the pot cracked or the seeds did not sprout on the first try. Using the extra seeds and following the instructions closely can mitigate these issues. Also, some users have reported that the initial instructions could be more detailed about the risk of pot expansion, but the company does offer customer support if germination fails.
Overall, the Jacaranda Bonsai Starter Kit is a solid choice for anyone looking to explore bonsai growing without a huge investment. It delivers on its promise of a complete starter experience, and the extra seeds provide a safety net. If you are patient and enjoy nurturing plants, this kit is a delightful way to grow a miniature tree that can become a long-term companion.
Pros
- Extremely resilient and forgiving of neglect
- Thrives in low light and low humidity conditions
- Attractive, waxy leaves that look almost plastic
- Grows well under office lighting, no natural light needed
- Easy to repot and propagate from bulbs
Cons
- Some plants may arrive waterlogged or rootbound due to shipping
- Quality control can vary, with occasional reports of pest issues or smaller-than-expected size
- Not ideal for those who want a fast-growing or flowering plant
The Costa Farms ZZ Plant is a true survivor in the world of houseplants. Known for its ability to withstand low light, low humidity, and periods of drought, this plant is perfect for anyone who wants to add a touch of green to their home without the constant worry of keeping it alive. Whether you are an experienced plant parent or a complete beginner, the ZZ Plant's resilience makes it a reliable choice.
What sets this plant apart is its waxy, dark green leaves that have a glossy, almost plastic-like appearance. This unique look gives it a modern, architectural quality that fits well with a variety of decor styles, from minimalist to rustic. In real-world use, the plant is remarkably forgiving; it can go weeks without water and still look healthy, and it thrives even under fluorescent lights found in offices. Many users report seeing new growth even when they thought the plant was struggling, which is a testament to its hardiness.
The design of the plant is straightforward; it arrives in a plain plastic grower pot, but its sturdy nature makes it easy to transfer to a container of your choice. One potential drawback is that some plants may arrive with issues like being waterlogged or rootbound, as noted in some customer reviews. This can require immediate repotting to prevent rot. Additionally, while the plant is generally pest-free, a few users have reported encountering fungus gnats, so it is wise to inspect the plant upon arrival and quarantine it if needed.
Overall, the Costa Farms ZZ Plant is an excellent choice for those seeking a low-maintenance, air-purifying houseplant that can adapt to almost any environment. It is a great gift for housewarmings or birthdays, and its resilience means it will likely outlast even the most forgetful plant owner. Just be prepared to give it a little extra care if it arrives in less-than-ideal condition, and it will reward you with years of easy beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best plants for plant lovers who are beginners?
For beginners, the ZZ plant and snake plant are top choices because they tolerate low light and irregular watering. Many plant lovers also recommend the money tree for its braided trunk and forgiving nature. If you’re just starting out, consider pairing one of these with a self-watering planter to reduce overwatering risks. Need more advice? Our Plant category has plenty of tips.
Can these plants survive in low-light apartments?
Yes, many of the best plants for plant lovers listed here, like the ZZ plant and snake plant, are well-known for tolerating low-light conditions. However, even low-light plants benefit from some indirect sunlight. If your apartment has very dark corners, you might also want to explore grow lights – our Grow Lights category has helpful recommendations.
Are these houseplants safe for pets?
Pet safety varies by plant. The money tree is generally considered pet-friendly, while snake plants and ZZ plants can be toxic if ingested. If you have curious cats or dogs, always check the specific plant’s toxicity before bringing it home. You can also look into pet-safe planters or place plants out of reach. For more information, see our best plant food for poinsettias guide, which includes pet safety notes.
How often should I water these plants?
Watering frequency depends on the plant species, pot size, and your home’s humidity. The ZZ plant thrives on neglect and only needs water every 2-3 weeks, while the snake plant prefers drying out completely between waterings. A good rule of thumb for all best plants for plant lovers: always check the soil moisture before adding water. Overwatering is a common mistake among even experienced plant lovers.
What makes a good gift for plant lovers?
A thoughtful gift combines a healthy, interesting plant with accessories that simplify care. The bonsai starter kit from Plantingseedsgrowingdreams is a popular choice because it includes tools and extra seeds. Or consider a multi-pack of succulents from Altman Plants for instant variety. Pairing a plant with a quality planter or fertilizer makes the gift even more special. Browse our Planter category for stylish options.
Have questions about our best plants for plant lovers recommendations? Check out our About page for details on our review process.


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