Growing plants indoors can often seem messy, as soil spills over. Pots take up space. And sometimes, plants still struggle to grow.
But one thing many newcomers don't realize is that many indoor plants can grow well in just water.
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No soil. No complicated setup.
You simply place a plant cutting in a glass jar, add water, and let the roots grow. It's clean, easy, and surprisingly beautiful to look at.
If you like low-maintenance greenery, these indoor plants that grow in just water are a great place to start.
Quick Info Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Article Topic | Indoor plants that grow in water only |
| Total Plants Covered | 8 beginner-friendly plants |
| Soil Requirement | No soil needed |
| Growing Method | Water propagation / hydroponic style |
| Best For | Beginners, apartments, desks, small homes |
| Maintenance Level | Very low |
| Light Requirement | Indirect bright light |
| Water Change | Every 7–10 days recommended |
| Decoration Use | Glass jars, vases, bottles |
| Common Examples | Pothos, Lucky Bamboo, Philodendron, Spider Plant |
1. Pothos (Money Plant)
Pothos is perhaps the easiest plant you can grow in water.
All you need is a cutting with a tuber. Place it in a jar of water, and within a few days, small roots will start to emerge.
The vines grow long and hang beautifully from shelves or hanging glass containers.
In my experience, pothos adapts to water requirements faster than most indoor plants. Even beginners rarely have problems with it.
Simply place the jar in bright, indirect light and change the water weekly.
2. Lucky Bamboo
Lucky bamboo is famous for growing in water alone.
It is usually placed in a decorative glass container with small stones to help keep the stems upright.
Many people keep lucky bamboo on their office desks because it requires very little care.
One thing I learned the hard way: tap water sometimes causes the leaves to turn yellow. Filtered or distilled water works much better.
This plant prefers indirect light and cool indoor spaces.
3. Philodendron
Philodendrons resemble pothos but typically have softer, heart-shaped leaves.
They grow very well in water when you place a healthy stem cutting in a jar.
Roots form quickly, and the plant continues to grow just like in soil.
In my experience, philodendrons are a little slower than pothos, but they remain very healthy in water.
These are perfect for shelves, side tables, or minimalist plant displays.
4. Spider Plant
Spider plants are famous for their tiny baby plants called pups.
These baby plants can easily grow in water.
Simply cut a small pup and place its base in a jar. New roots will emerge within a week or two.
This makes spider plants one of the easiest plants to grow.
The curved leaves also give the plant a soft, decorative look.
5. Chinese Evergreen
Chinese evergreen plants are usually grown in soil, but stem cuttings can also grow well in water.
The patterned leaves make them very decorative indoors.
Place the cutting in a glass container and place it indoors in dim light.
In my experience, this plant grows slowly in water, but it remains healthy for a long time.
Because of its slow growth, it's great for those who prefer low-maintenance plants.
6. Coleus
Coleus plants are known for their colorful leaves.
They root very quickly in water—sometimes in just a few days.
With their vibrant colors, they add life to indoor spaces.
Remember that coleus prefers good light. Without enough light, the colors may fade.
Nevertheless, it is one of the best plants to grow in water because it roots very quickly.
7. Wandering Jew (Tradescantia)
Tradescantia is another plant that grows very quickly in water.
The purple and green striped leaves make it stand out among indoor plants.
When you place the cuttings in water, roots usually appear within a week.
However, I once made the mistake of leaving the water unchangeable for too long, and the stems began to soften.
Regular water changes keep the plant healthy.
8. English Ivy
English ivy is often used as an ornamental plant.
It grows well in water, as long as it receives bright, indirect light.
Cut a healthy vine and place the stem in water. Over time, thin white roots will begin to grow.
When the vines are kept in clear glass bottles or jars, they look beautiful.
However, ivy can grow more slowly in water than in soil, which is a minor drawback.
Easy Tips for Growing Plants in Water
Growing indoor plants in water is easy, but a few simple habits help them stay healthy.
Change the water regularly.
Fresh water prevents bacteria and keeps the roots clean.
Use clean containers.
In glass jars, you can watch the roots grow, which is part of the fun.
Provide indirect sunlight.
Too much direct sunlight can heat the water and damage the roots.
Prune unhealthy roots.
If any roots turn brown or slimy, remove them immediately.
Why Many People Prefer Soilless Plants
Indoor plants grown solely in water are becoming more popular.
They are cleaner. They take up less space. And you avoid problems like soil infestation or overwatering.
They also make great home decor.
A simple glass jar with roots can look beautiful on a desk, shelf, or kitchen windowsill.
For those new to potting soil, this method also eliminates the guesswork involved in soil care.
Related Helpful Articles:
Can Money Plant Grow in Water Without Soil? Yes, Heres How
Fast Growing Indoor Plants for Small Pots (Compact & Easy Care)
Best Indoor Grow Lights for Houseplants (2026 Full Spectrum Guide)
Final Words
If you're looking for an easy way to add greenery to your home, growing plants in water is a great option.
They're simple, clean, and easy for beginners.
Plants like pothos, lucky bamboo, and philodendron are especially good for this method.
Start with a small jar and a cutting. Watching the roots slowly grow in water can be surprisingly beautiful.
And once you see how easy it is, you'll probably want to grow more.
Written from real experience caring for indoor plants for IndoorPlantify.