10 Houseplants That Will Thrive in Your Kitchen (Even If You Forget to Water Them Sometimes)

Look, the kitchen isn’t exactly the first place you think of when someone says houseplant haven. It’s more like: crumbs, dishes, that one drawer full of mystery utensils… and yet, it’s actually a pretty great place for plants. Think about it—sunny windows, humidity from cooking, warm vibes. It’s plant spa day, every day.

And if you’re like me and occasionally forget a watering schedule (or what day it is), you’ll be glad to know that plenty of plants actually thrive in the kitchen—with minimal drama.

Here are 10 that won’t judge your slightly crispy basil or the fact that your air fryer gets more love than your watering can.

Pothos: The chill roommate of the plant world

Pothos is that easygoing friend who shows up, looks amazing, and never asks for much. It doesn’t care if the light is bright or a little meh. It’ll trail beautifully from a shelf, curl around your spice rack, or hang from a pot like it’s in its own cooking show. Occasionally wipe the dust off the leaves, give it water when the soil’s dry, and you’re golden.

Philodendron: Like pothos, but with a different haircut

People mix these two up all the time, and honestly, they don’t seem to mind. Philodendrons have that soft, heart-shaped leaf vibe and a slightly wilder personality. They love bright-ish light, but don’t need a full-on sunbeam. I keep one above my coffee machine and it seems to thrive on caffeine fumes and chaotic mornings.

Herbs: Pretty and practical (we love a multitasker)

Basil, mint, thyme—these aren’t just for your Sunday pasta. Stick a few pots on the windowsill and you’ve got a mini herb garden that doubles as kitchen decor. The smell? Unmatched. Fresh basil in your omelet or a mint sprig in your lemonade? Feels like you’re living in a cooking show, minus the camera crew.

They do need good light though, so if your kitchen window is more of a dungeon situation, maybe stick with hardier greens.

Succulents: The tiny plant gang that refuses to die

If you forget to water things until they’re begging for mercy, succulents are your people. They love being ignored (to a point, obviously—don’t be rude). A sunny kitchen ledge is perfect for them. Plus, they’re tiny, cute, and come in so many shapes they kind of feel like a collection without the clutter.

And no, you don’t need to know all their names. This isn’t a botanical spelling bee.

Spider Plant: The retro favorite that’s making a comeback

Spider plants are basically the 70s macramé plant that never stopped being cool. They’re dramatic in the best way—long, stripey leaves that spill over their pot and dangle baby plants like they’re showing off. They love indirect light and a bit of humidity, which your kitchen definitely delivers every time you boil water or forget to turn the oven fan on.

Also, bonus: they help clean the air. Not a bad roommate, huh?

Snake Plant: Practically indestructible

If you kill a snake plant, that’s on you. These things thrive on neglect. You could literally go on vacation, forget you own it, come back, and it’ll still be standing there like, “Oh hey, welcome back.”

Tall, upright leaves add structure to your kitchen space. It’s like having a sculpture that breathes. Plus, it doesn’t care if the light is low—it’s a tough cookie.

Rubber Tree: Glossy and slightly dramatic (in a good way)

A rubber tree is the plant version of someone who owns a steamer and actually uses it. The leaves are shiny, full, and look like they’ve got a skincare routine. They prefer bright, indirect light and regular watering—but not too much. They’re not needy, just specific.

If you’ve got a sunny corner or a countertop that needs a little life, this one’s a good pick. Also, it sounds cool when you tell people: “Yeah, that’s my rubber tree.”

Coffee Plant: For the true caffeine enthusiast

Yes, it’s real. And yes, it smells amazing. No, you’re probably not growing your own espresso beans in a countertop pot—but it’s still a fun little nod to your love of coffee. The leaves are glossy and deep green, and it’s surprisingly happy in the warmth of the kitchen.

Think of it as your morning buddy. You make the coffee, it is the coffee. Kind of poetic.

ZZ Plant: The sleek minimalist

ZZ (short for Zamioculcas zamiifolia, which… no thank you) is like the IKEA of houseplants. Low effort, sleek design, and somehow goes with everything. It stores water in its roots, so it can go a while between sips. Doesn’t care about light. Doesn’t throw tantrums if you forget it for a week. Honestly, more emotionally stable than most of us.

I stuck mine next to the toaster once and forgot it was there for a solid month. Still looked flawless.

African Violet: Because sometimes you want flowers, too

This one’s a bit of a wildcard, but if you’ve got decent light, African violets can bloom almost year-round. They’re small, colorful, and feel like a reward. Like, “Look at me! I managed to not kill this and it’s blooming!”

They like consistent care and warm temps—so the kitchen is usually perfect. Especially if you’re someone who makes tea and feels vaguely Victorian about it.

So, what’s the takeaway here?

You don’t need to overhaul your kitchen or suddenly become a Plant Person™ to make room for a few green friends. Start with one. See how it feels. Add another when you’re ready. Before you know it, your kitchen will smell fresher, feel cozier, and look like the inside of a lifestyle blog—but real, and with toast crumbs.

Have a favorite kitchen plant that’s defied all odds? Tell me. I’m always looking for the next leafy survivor.