13 Best Plants That Grow In Water

March 1, 2023July 7, 2023 Chique Home

Plant maintenance can be a daunting process for many people but some plants simply just make life easier. There are many plants that grow in water that can add greenery and beauty to your space. Plants that grow in water are surefire decorative elements to add a touch of nature to any room. Water-growing plants are great for small space as it does not require a plant pot filled with soil.

These types of plants are grown using a technique called “hydroponics”, in which the substrate is replaced by water. They are low-maintenance plants, and in addition to taking up less space, they are perfect for people who do not have the time to regularly water their plants, or for those homeowners who travel a lot.

Plants that grow in water are useful and necessary in closed environments since they are decorative and purifiers. Despite being low-maintenance plants, not many people know which plants thrive in water. Fortunately, there are a plethora of houseplants that grow in water for all preferences.

Some plants have more benefits than others. In order to keep the plants healthy, the water needs replacement. This is a simple task, although it requires certain techniques that prevent deterioration. Although the growth may be slower and the height smaller, it is possible to create an entire indoor garden from a small stem.

In this article, we’ll be revealing 13 plants that grow in water and can add a touch of greenery to your home.

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1. Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)

The lucky bamboo, which is actually a type of thick-stemmed dracaena, is among the most common plants that grow in water. Due to its braided and bushy stems, it may need some stones at the bottom to help keep it upright.

The maintenance of this plant is quite simple. Lucky bamboo needs indirect light and water fertilization every one or two months. Liquid fertilizers should be always supplied alongside side the plant’s maintenance advice.

2. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

Pothos is a very popular houseplant that does not need transplanting and can be grown in both soil and water. When submerged, it grows large, vine-like. The poto or photus is one of the most popular plants that grow in water because it’s easy to cultivate and decorate with it. It also looks ravishing and can elevate the look of any space

When planting pothos, cut the longest leaves carefully. They should be in a place where they do not receive so much light. In addition, Pothos grow quickly compared to its counterpart -it grows by over a foot in just a month.

3. Sweet Potatoes Vine (Ipomoea batatas)

The conventional way of growing sweet potatoes is water. Placing a sweet potato in a container with a little water is an agricultural exercise taught in middle or high school. It takes about 6-8 weeks (more or less) to produce slips.

After this time, a good amount of green stems will sprout. A sufficient amount of warmth and light will make a sweet potato vine grow faster. These plants that grow in water benefit from the sunlight and can be moved easily from the container to the ground hassle-free.

4. Climbing Philodendron (Philodendron brandtianum)

This species of plant is one of the easiest to grow. Its beautiful heart-shaped leaves grow in any light arrangement. However, if the stem enlarges faster than the leaves, it is a sign that it needs more light. In all cases, these types of plants that grow in water should be exposed to some degree of sunlight, but indirectly.

There are a wide variety of climbing philodendrons. Here are the types listed below:

Fiddleleaf Philodendron
Heartleaf Philodendron
Lemon Lime Philodendron
Glory Philodendron
Ecuador Philodendron
Philodendron Bob Cee
Philodendron Brandtianum
Philodendron Brasil
Philodendron Green Emerald
Ecuador Philodendron
Philodendron Hastatum
Philodendron Lacerum
Philodendron Mayoi
Philodendron Micans
Brandt’s Philodendron
Philodendron Painted Lady
Philodendron Philodendron
Philodendron Pink Princess
Silver Sword Philodendron
Split-leaf Philodendron
Philodendron Red-Emerald
Philodendron Wendlandii

5. Begonia (Begonia spp.)

Begonias have striking leaves that can be green, white, red, and pink. These types of plants that grow in water are suitable for terraces or balconies due to their heat resistance nature.

They may not be one of the easiest and quickest plants to grow in water and it will be worth it in the end. It can take months for the root to form. They require specific care and weekly water changes to prevent bacteria that can turn to rot but if you have good experience with this type of plant, then this may be great for you as they will spruce up your space instantly.

6. English Ivy (Hedera helix)

The English Ivy is a climbing vine water-growing plant with small leaves that is suitable for any area in the home. English Ivy is known for its evergreen leaves. These types of plants that grow in water do not require much exposure to the sun as this can discolor their leaves.

They propagate well in shaded places. Although they can also be placed in moderately lit places like a window sill. After placing the freshly cut stems in water, it takes just a couple of weeks for the roots to appear.

7. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

One of the most affordable and low-maintenance plants that grow in water is the spider plant. Cut a small stem, place it in a glass vase or jug filled halfway with water and, in a short time, the spider will get abundant foliage. The spider plant adapts easily to any environment.

The water should be changed every 3-5 days to blossom and place rocks at the bottom of the glass to hold the roots. Bear in mind that it shouldn’t be in a place with too much exposure to sunlight. As soon as it gets bigger, you may need to transfer it to a bigger container.

8. African Violet (Streptocarpus)

African Violet is a stunning and compact houseplant that is great to grow in water. Just like the name implies, this type of plant originates from tropical East Africa. They grow flowers in many shades such as red, blue, white, and mauve.

Because of its large leaves, it is advisable to plant this perennial plant in a bottle-necked container that is narrow at the top and wide at the bottom. This type of jar is ideal for keeping this plant firm. Note that low humidity should be avoided as it can slow down the growth and flowering of the African Violet.

9. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)

The Chinese evergreen, also known as Aglaonema, is one of the plants that grow in water and require very little care. This plant originates from the Southeast Asian tropical forests and has at least 20 species varying if leaf patterns and colors.

The Chinese evergreen is low light intolerant, hence, requires well-lit places. The ideal temperature for this type of plant is between 65-80 degrees Fahrenheit. Change the water every two days to promote healthy growth. These plants are ideal for adding greenery and elevating the decor in offices.

10. Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Peppermint popular flavoring for toothpaste, tea, and gum is a kind of mint that can be cultivated inside water. The absence of dirt is actually the fundamental advantage of this technique. However, peppermint does not permanently grow in water. The plant will eventually stop growing and its leaves will turn yellow.

But, you can occasionally harvest by keeping a few water-rooted stems in a jar above the sink. On a sunny windowsill, mint grows easily in water. Just keep in mind to change the water frequently.

11. Coleus (Plectranthus scutellarioides)

Coelus is a tropical plant with colorful foliage that is probably one of the easiest plants to grow in water. The plants are grown for their colorful leaves, which cover the 1 to 3 foot tall plants, rather than their 2- to 3-inch spikes of small blue flowers. Your coleus plants will flourish better if you replace the water every month and add a bit of compost tea to the water.

Cuttings of coleus can be started in water and continue to grow there for a while. The cuttings will grow a tangle of roots and even bloom if kept in a bright window at 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

12. Arrowhead Vine (Syngonium)

The arrowhead vine, also known as Syngonium is a resistant and ideal houseplant that thrives in water. It is one of the most aesthetically pleasing plants that will add give it an impactful edge to any space.

The arrowhead vine requires indirect light. If you happen to put it in an excessively shady place, you will notice that the plant becomes unhealthy and the leaves will eventually darken. The water for the arrowhead vine will need to be changed every 4 to 7 days.

13. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)

The snake plant or tiger’s tongue is a perfect plant for beginners due to its simplicity and easy growth in water. Just cut one of the leaves at its base and put it in a container with water and wait for its roots to grow. The ideal temperatures for a snake plant are between 50-95 F (10-35 C). To promote healthy growth, the water should be changed every 5 to 7 days.

This plant loves full sun but is not particularly demanding when it comes to light, as it can thrive in dimly lit areas. It will take more time than other species since it is slow-growing, but as soon as the cuttings have several roots, you could transplant it to the ground if you wish.

Maintenance Tips For Plants That Grow in Water

Plants that grow in water are usually low-maintenance and less demanding compared to plants that grow only on the soil. However, they are some tips to keep in mind when caring for these plants.

1. Water

Make sure you’re growing your plants in the right water. Avoid using chlorinated water as this may cause damage to some houseplants. For best results, use tap water or rainwater. Make sure the tap water sits for a least 24 hours at room temperature before use. How often you need to change the water depends on the type of plants. However, most plants that grow in water only need water changing once a month to stay healthy.

2. Container

To grow your plants, you need a see-through container. A vase, jar, or bottle would do but make sure you use the right size container that works for the plant. It should be airtight and leave no room for leakage.

What plants that grow in water caught your attention? Let us know in the comment section below!