Are you a cleanliness freak? Someone who cannot see any dirt inside your home but still want to add plants? Or maybe you forget to water your plants on time. If any of this describes you and you are having trouble keeping your plants alive, this article is for you!
Photo Credit Did you know that growing plants in water uses less water than growing the same plants in soil?
Plants need three things to grow which are light, nutrients, and space. The third requirement, i.e., space, can include pebbles, peat moss, soil, or even water alone. And luckily, many fantastic indoor houseplants do not need anything but water to grow!
The technique of growing plants in water is called hydroponics. It is a common practice. Many people use it to maintain their plant collections. Several plants can thrive for their entire natural lifespan without any soil when grown hydroponically. Some google examples include orchids, lotus, and paperwhites.
However, growing a plant in water is only achievable if you choose the right plant and satisfy some requirements. What are these plants & requirements? Keep reading to find out!
However, before we get into that, let’s answer a few simple questions.
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Should You Grow Plants In Water?
Photo Credit Growing plants in the water will save you from those messy dirt spills if you have pets.
Houseplants! We all love them, don’t we? However, no one likes caring for them because it is tricky! Miss a few watering sessions and they start wilting. Give them a little too much water, and they die. And then there is fertilizing them. Let’s not even discuss that!
It is enough to make anyone give up trying. However, let’s not do that today, and let me introduce you to hydroponics: the art of growing plants in water. And do you know what is the best? If you ever get bored of growing plants in water, pot them in the soil.
Also, growing a plant in water means no more worrying about watering the plants and no messy soil spills. However, that’s just the start. Other benefits include:
Water Plants Create Excellent Displays
I love the beauty and simplicity of plants growing inside clear vases and jars. You can see the roots grow, intertwining with each other and creating a stunning visual display. And the visual effect is even more astonishing when you put them in a well-lit spot.
Hydroponics Is An Excellent Propagation Method
Growing plants in water creates stunning displays and is a fantastic way to propagate your plants. When clipped and placed in water, many tropical plants give off roots. It may take some time, but eventually, you can put these cuttings in the soil to grow new plants.
Plants Grown In Water Have Fewer Pests
Many houseplant pests need soil to complete their lifecycle. For example, some of the plant bugs need soil to lay their eggs, while others feed on the soil fungus. So, when you remove dirt from the equation, you have fewer bugs and fewer plant problems.
Plants Grown In Water Need Less Care
I have a thriving outdoor garden, and it looks great. However, caring for these plants can sometimes be too much. And this is where plants that grow in water shine. They do not need to be watered and fertilized as often, saving time and relieving stress.
How To Grow Plants In Water?
Photo Credit Plants can thrive in water indefinitely if you give them what they need to grow and survive.
Plants can be grown and propagated easily in any water jar or vessel. All you have to do is place a fresh cutting into the water, or if you would like, start with a fully grown plant previously grown in the soil. Both methods work equally well. However, if you want to make the best of your efforts, here are a few things you must remember.
- Pick a plant that can be grown in water and that you like. See the list below.
- Clip the stem right below a leaf node if starting with a cutting. That is where it will begin developing the new root and ensure it still has a few leaves attached.
- Place the cutting or the plant in water and remove any leaves below water level.
- Choose a suitable vessel. For example, grass jars are prone to fungus, especially in humid conditions. Read below to find out what you can use as a vessel.
- Know your plant and make sure you understand its care needs.
- Use a suitable water source and keep changing the water regularly.
Containers For Plants That Grow In Water
Photo Credit One of the most fashionable ways to show houseplants in water is with clear glass test tubes.
Once you have selected a plant and understand all its care needs, you next must pick a good water contained to grow your plant. At my home, I often reuse empty glass bottles, or sometimes I even bring jars and vases that I find in thrift stores. Anything will do!
However, there is one thing you must keep in mind. Check your container’s width.
If it is a bottle, the plant might outgrow its narrow neck in no time, and then it would be nearly impossible to remove the plant without cutting or breaking the bottle.
Nevertheless, here are a few things you can use to grow plants in water.
Vases
If you are growing single stems, they do best in narrow vases as it helps them keep upright. You can use vases of any material, from glass to ceramic, as long as they don’t leak.
Bulbs
Do you have some old, out-of-function light bulbs lying around? Well, you can use them too to grow plants in water. Just be careful as you might cut yourself on their sharp glass.
Wall Vessels
Many plants that grow in water do not need much sunlight. Therefore, if you would like, you can plant them in wall-mounted terrariums, globes, vases, jars, and tubes.
Propagation Stations
If you want something more professional and showy to display your plans that grow in water, you can always buy propagation stations from online marketplaces.
Test Tubes
You might have used test tubes in your science class. Well, you can use them too to grow plants in water at home and have a little fun hydroponics experiment.
Water Glasses
Did your child or pet accidentally break a glass? Do not throw it away and repurpose it to grow a plant in water. You can even buy vintage glasses in pretty colors.
Glass Jars & Bottles
We all buy jams, ketchup, and other kitchen products that come in glass bottles. So, after use, wash them thoroughly and then repurpose them to grow plants in water.
Lastly, while using a colored vessel to grow plants, I recommend using a clear one. For me, half of the fun of plants growing in water comes from seeing the plant’s roots grow, which creates an excellent display for office and kitchen tables.
The clear vessels might show algae and fungus. But do not worry! We will talk in a bit about how to get rid of it. For now, let’s talk about how to care for plants grown in water.
Caring For Plants That Grow In Water
Photo Credit Keep an eye on the water. Top it up if it evaporates, and change it when it becomes cloudy.
Even though caring for plants that grow in water is relatively easier than potted plants in the soil. There are still a few things that must be kept in mind when growing plants in water.
For example, you must consider their fertilizer and sunlight needs. Also, you must use a good water source and replace/refill water. So, let’s discuss these aspects now.
Fertilizing Plants Grown In Water
The first and foremost thing that must have crossed your mind if you are unfamiliar with hydroponics is how your plants will get nutrients if not grown in soil. After all, soil provides the plants with anchorage and all the nutrients and minerals they need to grow, survive and thrive. Do not feel dumb, and do not worry; it is a valid concern!
There are many fertilizers available on the market nowadays that are designed specifically for hydroponic growing. All you have to do is put them in the water. Just ensure you follow the instructions on the package and don’t overuse it.
Also, please do not forget to add fertilizer to the water when you change it.
Light Needs Of Plants That Grow In Water
One of the most challenging aspects of growing plants in water is finding a place with adequate sunlight. You do not want to place them in a dark spot, or they will die. And, you do not wish to put them in a very sunny area, i.e., near a window or patio.
Water is very good at absorbing energy and absorbing sunlight. It raises the water’s temperature, which might lead to your plant overheating and dying. Too much light also leads to fungal growth unless you grow plants in opaque vessels.
Therefore, when growing plants in water, pick a plant with just the right amount of sunlight. However, do not use a clear container if your plant needs a full day of the sun. Instead, plant it in an opaque vessel such as a dark blue jar, dark gray bottle, or amber bottle.
Please also avoid putting your plant in a highly drafty place. You do not want your plants or the water they are placed in to get chilly, either.
I usually pick a plant with moderate sunlight needs and then put it in a location that is not too dark or sunny. And, if the algae grow on the container, it is not very hard to get rid of. Just cover the container for a few weeks, which will starve the algae of light.
Watering Plants Grown In Water
One of the great things about growing plants in water is that you can use even the tap water that comes to your home. The only exception is if the tap water is of poor quality. For example, it is too muddy or has a high concentration of salts and metals.
Sometimes the tap water in homes also comes from reverse osmosis plants. It should also not be used to grow indoor plants as it lacks all the nutrients. However, it is safe to grow plants if the water plant adds nutrients and minerals after reverse osmosis.
You can even use bottled water for this. Just not the ones with low minerals.
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The Best Plants To Grow In Water
Okay, enough with the tips and care. Now, on to our list of plants that grow best and are the easiest to maintain in water for homes and other indoor places such as offices. 1. Sweet Potato Vine (Ipomoea batatas)
1. Sweet Potato Vine (Ipomoea batatas)
Photo Credit The ornamental sweet potato vine is a traditional “spiller” plant for water container gardening.
Quick Facts
| Botanical Name | Ipomoea batatas |
| Plant Type | Tender perennial |
| Height | 15-30 cm / 6-12 inches |
| Spread | 90-120 cm / 36-48 inches |
| Other Names | Sweet potato plant, ornamental sweet potato, ornamental sweet potato vine |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to pets and humans |
Description
Sweet potato vine is an annual, warm-season ornamental plant grown for its lovely foliage and vining growth habit. It creates multi-seasonal interest in the garden and has beautiful foliage. Sweet potato vines continue growing in water for years if cared for properly.
A Few Tips
If your cutting doesn’t sprout, don’t worry! Sometimes it takes a few tries. It performs best when given at least six hours of full sun. However, it can also survive some shade.
2. Begonias (Begonia sp.)
Photo Credit All begonia types grow well in water, but tuberous and rex varieties do exceptionally well.
Quick Facts
| Plant Type | Annual or perennial (depending on species) |
| Height | 15-60 cm / 6-24 inches |
| Spread | 15-60 cm / 6-24 inches |
| Other Names | N/A |
| Toxicity | Mildly toxic to pets and humans if ingested |
Description
Begonias are common household plants that are often grown outdoors to add a splash of color to plant collections. Good news: begonias can also be propagated in the water and make lovely arrangements in glass jars. Simply cut a section of an established stem on a growing plant, place it in water, and wait for the roots to sprout.
A Few Tips
Plant begonias in partial shade with good moisture. And, even though begonias need bright light to flower, too much direct sunlight can scorch their leaves.
3. Geraniums (Pelargonium sp.)
Photo Credit Geraniums make popular bedding plants in the garden, but they also look good in water inside vases.
Quick Facts
| Plant Type | Perennial or annual (depending on species) |
| Height | 30-60 cm / 12-24 inches |
| Spread | 30-60 cm / 12-24 inches |
| Other Names | Storksbill, cranesbill |
| Toxicity | Mildly toxic to pets and humans if ingested |
Description
Geraniums are a favorite for filling a garden bed, a planter, or a hanging basket, with brightly-colored flowers. However, these easy-to-grow plants can also take root in water. And, since geraniums grow continuously all year long, they can be propagated anytime.
A Few Tips
If you grow geraniums in water, place them in a location that maintains an average temperature of 65 to 75 °F. Also, do not overfill the container with water.
4. Prayer plant (Marantha leuconeura)
Photo Credit Prayer Plants can live and grow in water but do not thrive there for long.
Quick Facts
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Height | 30-45 cm / 12-18 inches |
| Spread | 30-60 cm / 12-24 inches |
| Other Names | Maranta plant, herringbone plant, Calathea prayer plant |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to pets and humans |
Description
Thanks to its decorative leaves, it is one of the most distinguishable tropicals. And did you know that prayer plants grow fine in the water, although not as fast as in soil? You need only one node to propagate your prayer plant in the water, and you are good o go.
A Few Tips
Prayer Plants prefer temperatures between 68° to 85 °F, and you should feed them once a month with a water-soluble fertilizer when growing them in water.
5. Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Photo Credit Spider plants are sensitive to fluoride in tap water, which causes leaf tips to turn brown.
Quick Facts
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Height | 15-45 cm / 6-18 inches |
| Spread | 30-60 cm / 12-24 inches |
| Other Names | Airplane plant, St. Bernard’s lily |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to pets and humans |
Description
Spider plants need certain nutrients to grow and usually do not thrive in water. However, they will grow well if you use a hydroponic solution with everything they need. Aside from that, it is a surprisingly low-care plant and doesn’t need much light to thrive.
A Few Tips
Spider plants aren’t too picky about temperature and light. However, please keep them at a moderate temperature for best results, although they can tolerate some heat and cold.
6. Inch plant (Tradescantia zebrina)
Photo Credit An inch plant placed in water in a sunny window will produce roots in no time.
Quick Facts
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Height | 15-30 cm / 6-12 inches |
| Spread | 60-90 cm / 24-36 inches |
| Other Names | Wandering jew, small-leaf spiderwort |
| Toxicity | Mildly toxic to pets and humans if ingested |
Description
Years ago, before plants became business, everyone with houseplants knew how to grow inch plants. They are easy to care for, fast-growing, and can survive in various environments. And, when propagated right, they produce roots within two weeks in water.
A Few Tips
Inch plants require indirect bright sunlight. And, if they are placed in a shady spot, their distinctive leaf markings will fade. Also, they prefer to be kept consistently moist.
7. Arrowhead Plant (Syngonium podophyllum)
Photo Credit If you are growing arrowhead plants in water, change the water out once or twice a week.
Quick Facts
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Height | 30-60 cm / 12-24 inches |
| Spread | 30-60 cm / 12-24 inches |
| Other Names | Goosefoot plant, nephthytis, arrowhead philodendron |
| Toxicity | Mildly toxic to pets and humans if ingested |
Description
Arrowhead plants make an exciting addition to shade gardens and indoor containers. They have beautiful arrow-shaped green leaves and soft stems. So, if you want, all you need is a healthy stem. Then, clip it below a node and put the stem in a bottle filled with water.
A Few Tips
To grow well, arrowhead plants need water with a high phosphate level, and they can thrive in a range of lighting conditions but prefer bright, indirect sunlight.
8. Mini Monstera (Rhaphidophora tetrasperma)
Photo Credit Propagating in water is the most efficient method of growing your Mini Monstera plants.
Quick Facts
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Height | 30-90 cm / 12-36 inches |
| Spread | 30-90 cm / 12-36 inches |
| Other Names | Dwarf monstera, philodendron minima, Ginny philodendron |
| Toxicity | Mildly toxic to pets and humans if ingested |
Description
Mini monsteras grow well well in water. I also have one in a glass bottle growing at my home. It looks stunning in a clear bottle as its roots grow. To propagate mini monstera in water, you can cut the vine anywhere you’d like, but ensure the cutting has a node.
A Few Tips
They do best in bright, indirect sunlight. And when grown in water, these plants must be fed regularly with a water-soluble fertilizer throughout the active growing period.
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9. Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)
Photo Credit Not all philodendrons grow well in water, but the Heart Leaf philodendron does well.
Quick Facts
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Height | 30-60 cm / 12-24 inches |
| Spread | 30-60 cm / 12-24 inches |
| Other Names | Sweetheart plant, heartleaf philodendron, hederaceum |
| Toxicity | Mildly toxic to pets and humans if ingested |
Description
Heartleaf philodendron is one of the most effortless plants to grow in water. All you need to do is place a vine in water, which will grow into a bush in no time. Furthermore, these beautiful plants are easy to keep healthy and come in various shades.
A Few Tips
When growing these plants in water, you must keep changing the water every few days. Also, ensure the nodes are fully submerged and place the plant in indirect sunlight.
10. Swiss Cheese Vine (Monstera adansonii)
Photo Credit Swiss cheese plants can live forever in water as long as the water is fresh and not murky.
Quick Facts
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Height | 1-3 meters / 3-10 feet |
| Spread | 1-3 meters / 3-10 feet |
| Other Names | Adamson’s monstera, Swiss cheese plant, five holes plant |
| Toxicity | Mildly toxic to pets and humans if ingested |
Description
The Swiss Cheese plant is among those houseplants that just pull on my heart strings. It is a beautiful and easy-to-grow plant with distinctive, heart-shaped leaves. It gets its name from its large leaves, which become covered with holes like Swiss cheese as it ages.
A Few Tips
Swiss cheese vine plant prefers full sun but will adapt to partial shade. Also, when in the growing season, add a liquid fertilizer to the water, diluted at half-strength to keep it going.
11. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema sp.)
Photo Credit Chinese Evergreen plants will grow well in water, similar to soil.
Quick Facts
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Height | 30-90 cm / 12-36 inches |
| Spread | 30-90 cm / 12-36 inches |
| Other Names | Philippine evergreen, Siam aurora |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets and humans if ingested |
Description
When growing Chinese evergreens in water, fill the vessel with water so that it reaches to cover just the bottom of the stem. Also, select a healthy stem at least 6 inches long and cut just below a node. If you’ve been loyal to a Chinese evergreen, it makes a worthy addition to hanging plant collections and survives with minimum care and attention.
A Few Tips
Chinese Evergreens can survive in lower light conditions. However, ideally, you should place them in a place with at least a few hours of light daily to help them stay strong.
12. Satin pothos (Scindapsus pictus)
Photo Credit When growing Satin pothos in water, use purified water, so the fluoride levels aren’t as high.
Quick Facts
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Height | 60-90 cm / 24-36 inches |
| Spread | 60-90 cm / 24-36 inches |
| Other Names | Silvervine, satin silver Scindapsus |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets and humans if ingested |
Description
Easy to care for and known for its beautifully decorative leaves – the satin pothos makes a worthy addition to any indoor plant collection. I also recently got some Satin Pothos cutting, and I am just in love with their dark green leaves with silver splash striations on them.
A Few Tips
These plants prefer bright indirect sunlight. So, please do not put your plant in direct sunlight, or it will scorch its leaves. Also, keep it warm and change the water regularly.
13. Velvet leaf Philodendron (Philodendron micans)
Photo Credit Like many other vining plants, Velvet leaf Philodendron can also be propagated easily in water.
Quick Facts
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Height | 30-60 cm / 12-24 inches |
| Spread | 30-60 cm / 12-24 inches |
| Other Names | Philodendron scandens, velvet-leaf philodendron |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets and humans if ingested |
Description
Velvet leaf Philodendron is one of those plants you have probably seen on your social media feed more and more each day. And as you might have already guessed from its name, it features gorgeous leaves with a velvety texture that looks stunning in glass jars.
A Few Tips
Water-grown Velvet leaf Philodendron should be placed in a bright spot, but not directly in the sun. Ideally, you should keep them 3-4 feet away from a south-facing window.
14. Flamingo Flower (Anthurium andraeanum)
Photo Credit These plants have colorful waxy flowers that create a beautiful contrast with their white roots in water.
Quick Facts
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Height | 30-60 cm / 12-24 inches |
| Spread | 30-60 cm / 12-24 inches |
| Other Names | Tailflower, painter’s palette |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets and humans if ingested |
Description
Flamingo flowers are easy to grow in water. All you have to do is take a stem cutting from a pre-grown plant and wash all the soil off with lukewarm water. Next, place the cutting in the water, and the cutting will start producing white-colored roots in a few days.
A Few Tips
Anthurium in water is easy to care for than the one grown in the soil. However, it will only need supplemental feeding with a balanced fertilizer more frequently.
15. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Photo Credit Use a nutrient solution to grow your Pothos instead of plain water for better results.
Quick Facts
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Height | Up to 20 meters / 66 feet |
| Spread | Up to 20 meters / 66 feet |
| Other Names | Pothos, devil’s ivy |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets and humans if ingested |
Description
Houseplants like Pothos improve indoor air quality by removing contaminants from the air around them and providing oxygen. And they are easy to grow. All you need is a cheap vase and some tap water, and you are good to go! It is sturdy enough, and you can keep your Pothos alive easily. Also, it is the perfect plant to start with if you are new to hydroponics.
A Few Tips
As long as you give your water-grown Pothos sufficient minerals, nutrients, and just the right amount of sunlight light, your Pothos can grow in water without any issues.
16. Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)
Photo Credit Lucky Bamboo grows in water, but it should be moved to the soil for the best results when the roots are solid.
Quick Facts
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Height | 30-150 cm / 12-60 inches |
| Spread | 30-150 cm / 12-60 inches |
| Other Names | Ribbon plant, curly Bamboo, friendship bamboo |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets and humans if ingested |
Description
Lucky Bamboo looks good growing in water inside a glass vase, and it is low maintenance. Furthermore, it is said to bring good fortune to the owner. And don’t get fooled by their name. Even though they look like Bamboo and gross like Bamboo, these plants are not related to Bamboo at all, and it’s, in fact, more of a succulent type plant.
A Few Tips
Lucky Bamboo prefers warm temperatures but adapts fine indoors. Also, when growing it in water, fertilize it monthly using a water-soluble or liquid houseplant fertilizer.
17. Peace lily (Spathiphyllum sp.)
Photo Credit Peace lilies can grow in water and are frequently sold in jars without soil.
Quick Facts
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Height | 30-65 cm / 12-26 inches |
| Spread | 30-60 cm / 12-24 inches |
| Other Names | White sails, spath, spathiphyllum |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets and humans if ingested |
Description
Peace lilies are very popular, common houseplants, and you might have also seen people growing peace lilies in water. Well, you can do it too! When grown in water, peace lily adapts and produces small roots that feed the plant. And they look amazing growing in water.
A Few Tips
Peace lilies are tropical, evergreen plants, and in the wild, they thrive on the forest floor, where they receive consistent moisture and dappled sunlight. Therefore, replicating these conditions indoors is the key to keeping them healthy and happy.
18. Wandering Jew (Tradescantia pallida)
Photo Credit If you keep the water fresh, Wandering Jew Plants will grow in water for several weeks.
Quick Facts
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Height | 20-60 cm / 8-24 inches |
| Spread | 30-60 cm / 12-24 inches |
| Other Names | Purple queen, purple heart plant |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets and humans if ingested |
Description
While growing wandering jew in the soil is super easy, planting it in water is also fun. Its eye-catching mix of green and purple leaves looks great in gardens and indoors. Wandering jew will brighten any room, and its low-maintenance nature makes it even better.
A Few Tips
Wandering Jews can tolerate short periods of cold or hot temperatures. However, they grow best when kept at 50 to 80°F. Also, for best growth, put them in full sunlight.
19. Dracaena (Dracaena sp.)
Photo Credit Rooting in water is one of the easiest ways to propagate dracaena indoors.
Quick Facts
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Height | 30 cm – 2.5 meters / 12 inches – 8 feet |
| Spread | 30-90 cm / 12-36 inches |
| Other Names | Corn plant, dragon tree |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets and humans if ingested |
Description
Dracaena plants are beautiful, b easy to care for, and can be propagated relatively easily. Dracaena can grow and live in the water if provided with optimum growth conditions, a fertilizer during active growth, and when the water is changed regularly.
A Few Tips
When caring for Dracaena plants, remember that they do well at between 15 to 26 degrees Celsius. Also, they need lots of sunlight, or they will lose their lovely colors.
20. Croton (Codiaeum variegatum)
Photo Credit Croton is one of the most colorful plants that you can grow indoors in water alone.
Quick Facts
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Height | 0.6-2.4 m / 2-8 ft |
| Spread | 0.6-1.2 m / 2-4 ft |
| Other Names | Joseph’s coat, garden croton |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets and humans if ingested |
Description
Crotons can be grown in water if proper care is provided. For example, crotons need hydroponics, appropriate fertilizers, and good space to grow when grown in water. Also, they will need more light than usual. Nevertheless, they make excellent specimens for water jars and bottles because of their lovely, bright, eye-catching, and colorful foliage.
A Few Tips
It would help only to fertilize your croton in summer when grown in water according to the manufacturer-recommended dose. Also, keep the temperature around 60-70 F.
21. Impatiens (Impatiens walleriana)
Photo Credit If you want to add more of these flowers to the water vases, impatiens are an ideal choice.
Quick Facts
| Plant Type | Annual |
| Height | 15-60 cm / 6-24 inches |
| Spread | 15-30 cm / 6-12 inches |
| Other Names | Busy Lizzie, patience plant, touch-me-not |
| Toxicity | Mildly toxic to pets and humans if ingested |
Description & Care
Impatiens are among the most popular indoor container plants because of their brightly-colored blooms and ability to grow even in dappled sunlight. Native to east Africa, impatiens aren’t demanding and will thrive even in less-than-ideal conditions.
However, once established, use fertilizer every two weeks to keep them fit.
22. Paperwhite (Narcissus papyraceus)
Photo Credit Paperwhite can be grown in water, in a glass bowl, or in a vase among decorative stones.
Quick Facts
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Height | 20-30 cm / 8-12 inches |
| Spread | 10-15 cm / 4-6 inches |
| Other Names | Paperwhite narcissus, Bunch-flowered narcissus |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets and humans if ingested |
Description & Care
The paperwhite, a relative of daffodils, is easy to grow indoors and produces tiny, scented blooms if adequately cared for. Paperwhites grown in water make beautiful windowsill displays or centerpieces. And growing them in water is pretty straightforward.
Just place the plants in clear glass or plastic with some pebbles and add water, and that is it. However, ensure to put them in a well-lit and airy place.
23. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
Photo Credit English ivy is a classic addition to any home, whether you grow it in soil or water.
Quick Facts
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Height | Climbing up to 30 m / 98 ft |
| Spread | 2-3 m / 6.5-10 ft |
| Other Names | Common ivy, European ivy |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets and humans if ingested |
Description & Care
English ivy is a low-care, easy-growing perennial adaptable to various growing conditions. It is even an invasive plant, and when given the right growing conditions, English Ivy grows naturally and abundantly. And even better? Even if you are new to indoor houseplants, or a beginner at plant propagation, you can care for them.
All you have to do is ensure that the room temperature stays about 50 to 70 °F during the day and that the water it is grown is replaced regularly every few days.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it! A comprehensive list of plants that can grow in water quickly and easily. You might also know of other plants ideal for growing in water inside glass jars and vases. And I would appreciate it if you mention those in the comment section below.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What plants are best for water plants?
Aside from the abovementioned plants, examples of plants best for growing in water include rubber plants, aloe vera, devil’s ivy, water lettuce, dumbcane, and creeping Jenny.
Can money plants grow in water?
If you don’t want to raise money plants in the soil, you can always grow them in clean water in a glass jar. It is among the few plants that can be raised and propagated in pure water.
Which is the fastest-growing plant in water?
The small aquatic plant Wolffia is the fastest-growing plant in water. Other than that, the Giant water lily is also a fast-growing aquatic plant that can grow almost a foot a day.
Can I put the snake plant in water?
While snake plants are typically grown in soil, you can also grow them in water. However, you must be mindful of constant plant care and maintenance if you grow them in water.
Can succulents grow in water?
Growing succulents in water is actually faster and has a better success rate than when succulents are grown in soil. However, not all succulents are adapted for hydroculture.
Sources for Further Reading
Plants without soil. (2023). College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, New Mexico State University. Retrieved 12 March 2023, from https://aces.nmsu.edu/ces/yard/2002/121402.html
Plant Selection for Water Conservation | Cooperative Extension | The University of Delaware. (2023). Retrieved 12 March 2023, from https://www.udel.edu/academics/colleges/canr/cooperative-extension/fact-sheets/plant-selection-water-conservation/
Aquatic & Shoreline Plant Selection. (2023). Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service. Retrieved 12 March 2023, from https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/aquatic-shoreline-plant-selection/
What are your favorite plants that grow in water? Comment below. Also, check out our other articles:
Houseplants: Water And Feeding Guide
Reviewed: Best Self-Watering Plant Pot
All You Need To Know About Self-Watering Planters & Containers
The majority of people who have no interest in the subject, and aren’t green fingered assume that all plants and vegetables require the same growing conditions. This is not the case at all. Each plant has its own unique and interesting history and growing process.
I hope you will find The Natural List useful, and that it will help educate you on the wide variety of different flower and plant species there are across the globe.
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