For the busy among us (or just for the forgetful!), houseplants that thrive on minimal watering have definite advantages. Succulents, cacti and other houseplants with thick leaves all require much less water than many other houseplants.

The thick, fleshy leaves and stems of succulents, thick fleshy stems and spines of cacti, and thick leaves and rhizomes of some other houseplants are all adaptations for storing water and reducing water loss.

Although they may be tough and easy to care for, many of these plants are still architecturally beautiful and come in a range of sizes, so you can enjoy their stylish good looks without having to remember to water them on a regular basis.

Drought tolerant houseplants are ideal for turning your home into a tropical rainforest and achieving a lush, tropical look – just minus the rain.

Caring for Drought Tolerant Houseplants

It’s not true that drought tolerant houseplants thrive on neglect. If you completely forget to water them they will eventually die, but it is true that they don’t need watering as much as many other plants!

Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, especially for succulents and cacti. The easiest way to tell if the plant is dry is to feel the weight of it – or for larger pots, just poke a finger into the compost.

Overwatering can lead to root rot so, if in doubt, it’s best to err on the side of less water - but if the stems or leaves look as though they are drying out, it’s time to water.

Vary the watering regime according to the time of year as most plants require more water during the growing season then during their dormant period.

Be sure to plant up drought tolerant houseplants in well-draining compost as this helps prevent water from pooling around the roots, which can lead to root rot. Specialist compost is available, please ask our team for details.

It's important to be aware that some houseplants are toxic to pets – we do recommend always checking with some online research.

As with all houseplants, regularly check for any pests and diseases and treat accordingly – our houseplant team are happy to advise.

Our Favourites

Sansevieria (Snake Plant) – ideal for forgetful gardeners, these plants can go for weeks without watering. Their bold, upright sword-like dark green leaves come in a range of silver, cream, white, or yellow variegation. These tough, hardy plants tolerate low to bright light. Typically, they require watering every 10 days, but they are very forgiving and can survive for a month or even more if you forget about them.

Zamioculcas zamiifolia (ZZ) – easier to refer to by its common name of ‘ZZ’ this plant may look exotic but it’s tough and thrives in almost any light conditions from low light to bright light. The stunning glossy foliage looks good in almost any location and complements any style of interior design. Slow growing, eventually up to about 1m tall, the ZZ plant only requires infrequent watering, typically once every 2 to 3 weeks.

Aloe vera – familiar as a soothing ingredient commonly found in lotions and soaps, but also as a striking, resilient houseplant. This succulent has lance-shaped leaves with spiky edges and is well known for its air-purifying ability. Prefers bright, indirect light (but not direct sunlight). It should only be watered once the soil is completely dry, about once every 2 weeks.

Cacti – with large, fleshy stems for storing water, thick waxy outer layer, and spines instead of leaves to reduce water loss, cacti are uniquely adapted to thrive in dry, arid conditions. Preferring a sunny spot, they come in a wide range of shapes and sizes and are exceptionally easy to look after. Water them only when the soil in the pot is completely dry, typically once every 3 to 4 weeks in the summer and less frequently (once every 4 to 6 weeks) in the winter.

Crassula – with thick and fleshy leaves that act as water reservoirs, this popular succulent comes in many varieties, including Crassula ovata (Jade Plant) – often commonly referred to as the ‘Money Tree’ and considered a symbol of friendship, luck and prosperity. Prefers bright, sunny locations and should only be watered once the soil is completely dry, about once every 2 weeks.