7 Winter-Friendly Houseplants That Bring Life to Your Home (No Green Thumb Required)
Winter has a way of making our homes feel a little still—shorter days, chilly mornings, and leafless trees can take some of the energy out of a space. But bringing in a few hardy, low-maintenance houseplants can instantly warm things up (no thermostat adjustments needed).
Whether you’re settling into a new home this season or simply refreshing your space for winter, these cold-weather-friendly plants are easy to care for, brighten any room, and don’t mind a little neglect during the busy holiday months.
 1. Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii)
The Christmas cactus lives for winter, which makes it the perfect plant for this season. It blooms with colorful flowers right in the middle of the holidays, adding a festive pop of color when the outdoors feels gray. It looks especially pretty on a kitchen island, in a breakfast nook, or on a sunny windowsill where its flowers can really shine.
Light: Bright, indirect
Water: Every 2–3 weeks; keep soil slightly moist |
2. Snake Plant (Dracaena trifasciata)
If you consider yourself “not a plant person,” this one’s for you. Snake plants thrive in low light, handle dry winter air like a champ, and are nearly impossible to kill. Their tall leaves make them perfect for filling empty corners, adding height to living rooms, or bringing a sculptural touch to a bedroom.
Light: Low to bright indirect
Water: Every 4–6 weeks |
3. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ plant is polished, shiny, and incredibly low-maintenance. It tolerates low light and thrives on minimal care, making it a great choice for hallways, entry tables, home offices, or anywhere that doesn’t get a ton of natural light in winter.
Light: Low to medium indirect
Water: Every 3–4 weeks |
 4. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants are hardy, cheerful, and known for growing adorable “baby” offshoots—even during winter. They’re the kind of plant that makes your home look instantly lived-in and loved. Hang one in the kitchen, place it on a shelf, or let it spill over the edge of a bookcase for a soft, homey touch.
Light: Bright, indirect
Water: Weekly or when the top inch of soil is dry |
 5. String of Pearls (Curio rowleyanus)
If you want something fun and a little whimsical, this trailing succulent is a standout. Its bead-like strands look beautiful cascading off shelves, cabinets, or built-ins. Bonus: There are plenty of other “string of” varieties—hearts, dolphins, turtles—if you want to mix things up.
Light: Bright, indirect
Water: Every 2–3 weeks; let soil completely dry out between waterings (a key indicator is that the pearls will start to get wrinkly) |
 6. Ferns (Tracheophyta)
Soft, lush, and full, any type of fern is a great option for warming up interior spaces that feel a little bare this time of year. They love humidity, making them perfect for bathrooms, near kitchen sinks, or tucked into corners that need a little brightness.
Light: Medium indirect
Water: Keep soil lightly moist; mist occasionally |
 7. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
A true classic. Pothos grows fast, survives in almost any lighting situation, and trails beautifully over shelves, mantles, and kitchen cabinets. If you’re looking for a nearly foolproof plant that still makes a visual impact, this is it.
Light: Low to bright indirect
Water: Every 1–2 weeks |
The Perfect Holiday Gifts for New Homeowners
If someone on your list just moved into a Rockhaven home this year, a potted plant makes a warm & personal “welcome home” gift for the holidays. A Christmas cactus brings seasonal cheer, a pothos is perfect for beginners, and a snake plant is a reliable choice for someone who’s still unpacking and doesn’t have time for high-maintenance décor. They’re simple, affordable, and they add life to a home instantly.
Read more: Pet-Friendly Houseplants for Your New Home
A Home You Love, Season After Season
Whether you’re decorating for winter or gifting something green to someone settling into a new home, these plants bring life and warmth all season long. And if finding a new home is part of your holiday wishlist, Rockhaven Homes has warm, inviting spaces ready to make your winter even brighter. Reach out today, we’d love to help you find the perfect place to call home!
