You don’t need a green thumb (or hours of free time) to enjoy the beauty of indoor plants. Whether you live in a cozy condo or a bustling downtown home, the right greenery can bring calm, style, and fresh air into your space with minimal upkeep.

If you’re juggling a busy schedule or just starting your plant journey, here are our favourite low-maintenance indoor plants perfect for Toronto living.

1. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

Why it works for you: Practically indestructible, the ZZ plant thrives in low light and only needs watering every 2–3 weeks. Its thick, glossy leaves add an elegant, sculptural vibe to any space, from minimalist condos to classic brownstones.

Toronto tip: Perfect for north-facing rooms or offices with little natural light.

2. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)

Why it works for you: Also known as “mother-in-law’s tongue,” this hardy plant tolerates low light, dry air, and irregular watering. It even improves air quality while you sleep.

Watering: Once every 2–3 weeks. Let the soil dry out fully.
 Bonus: It’s pet-safe if placed out of reach, mildly toxic if chewed.

3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

Why it works for you: Fast-growing and forgiving, pothos is perfect for plant newbies. They trail beautifully from shelves or hanging planters and thrive in all types of light (though they love bright, indirect light best).

Care tip: Water the plant once the top of the soil feels dry, usually every 1–2 weeks. Trim vines to keep them full and lush.

4. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

Why it works for you: Elegant and expressive, the peace lily tells you exactly what it needs, it’ll gently droop when thirsty, then perk up dramatically after a drink. It also blooms indoors with little effort.

Care tip: Loves medium to low light and weekly watering. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.

5. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)

Why it works for you: Gorgeous patterned foliage and serious tolerance for low light and inconsistent watering? Yes, please. It’s a favourite for high-rise living in Toronto, where lighting can be unpredictable.

Fun fact: It’s known to purify the air, a major plus during winter when windows stay shut tight.

6. Succulents (Various Types)

Why it works for you: If you really forget to water, succulents might be your soulmate. They come in endless shapes and colours and need very little attention — just bright light and a light watering every few weeks.

Caution: Succulents can be sensitive to overwatering, especially in humid summer months. A sunny windowsill is ideal.

7. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)

Why it works for you: True to its name, this plant is almost unkillable. It handles neglect, dust, low light, and temperature swings, all common in downtown apartments.

Watering: Once the soil dries out, typically every 10–14 days.

8. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

Why it works for you: This nostalgic ‘70s favourite is making a huge comeback. It grows fast, produces cute “babies,” and is non-toxic to pets. Perfect for hanging baskets or tall shelves.

Toronto tip: Spider plants love humidity, so they’re ideal for bathrooms or kitchens.

Plant Care Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated

The key to indoor plant success in a busy city like Toronto? Choose the right plants, set reminders for watering, and don’t overthink it. Most low-maintenance plants actually prefer being left alone a little.

At Willem & Jools, our curated plant collection includes the best low-fuss greenery that works with your lifestyle, not against it. Whether you're a plant lover short on time or buying a gift for someone who needs more calm in their space, we’ve got the right fit.

FAQs: Low-Maintenance Plants in Toronto

Q: How often should I water low-maintenance indoor plants?
 A: Most low-maintenance plants need watering every 1–3 weeks, depending on light, temperature, and pot size. Always check the soil first, if it’s dry an inch below the surface, it’s usually time.

Q: Can I keep indoor plants in a condo with little natural light?
 A: Absolutely. Look for plants like snake plants, pothos, ZZ plants, and Chinese evergreens; they all do well in low-light conditions.

Q: Are any of these plants safe for pets?
 A: Spider plants and certain succulents (like Haworthia) are non-toxic. But plants like peace lilies and snake plants can be mildly toxic to pets if ingested, so keep them out of reach.

Q: What’s the easiest indoor plant for beginners?
 A: The ZZ plant is often called the “set-it-and-forget-it” plant. It’s incredibly hardy and stylish — perfect for beginners.

Q: Do indoor plants really help with air quality?
 A: Yes, many indoor plants, including peace lilies, snake plants, and Chinese evergreens, are known for their air-purifying abilities, especially helpful during winter months indoors.