Curious about which houseplants can thrive without any drainage? You’re in the right place! If you don’t consider yourself a natural gardener or are tired of accidentally overwatering your plants, these are the perfect picks for you. Here are the best houseplants that literally need no drainage — ideal for anyone who wants lush greenery without the hassle.
1. Rough Horsetail
Botanical Name: Equisetum hyemale
Also called scouring rush horsetail, this hardy, reed-like plant naturally thrives in wetlands and streams. It doesn’t need drainage because it’s perfectly adapted to living in saturated, mucky soil. Just keep it constantly moist, and it’ll flourish with little effort.
2. Lucky Bamboo
Botanical Name: Dracaena sanderiana
One of the easiest plants to grow, Lucky Bamboo doesn’t require any drainage at all. You can simply place it in a decorative vase or pot filled with water and pebbles to support the stems. It’s not just low-maintenance but also believed to bring good fortune.
3. Water Hyacinth
Botanical Name: Eichhornia crassipes
This beautiful floating plant can add charm to your indoor water garden or balcony setup. Place it in a wide glass bowl or vase, letting it float freely. It thrives in bright light and needs occasional trimming when it starts to multiply.
4. Cyperus Umbrella Plant
Botanical Name: Cyperus alternifolius
Known for its umbrella-shaped leaves, this plant naturally grows in swampy areas. It loves wet feet and can easily grow in a pot without drainage holes, as long as its roots stay submerged in consistently damp soil.
5. Water Lettuce
Botanical Name: Pistia stratiotes
A true floating beauty, Water Lettuce grows well in ponds, terrariums, or indoor containers. Its roots don’t need soil—they simply dangle in water. Keep it in soft to moderately hard water and a bright spot for best results.
6. Water Lily
Botanical Name: Nymphaea
A stunning aquatic plant that comes in shades of blue, yellow, pink, purple, white, and red, Water Lilies can be grown indoors in deep containers or small aquariums. Just ensure they have enough light and space to spread their leaves and blooms.
7. Houseplant Cuttings
Cuttings from plants like pothos, philodendrons, coleus, ivy, African violet, and begonia thrive beautifully in plain water. Simply place the stems in a vase filled with clean water, and you’ll never have to worry about drainage again. These cuttings can stay healthy and decorative for months.