Growing Houseplants in Water: Which Species Work

Most houseplants cannot survive long-term in water alone. A few exceptions tolerate hydroculture.

Water-Tolerant Plants

• Philodendron (heartleaf, vining types).
• Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) – "variegated pothos".
• Lucky bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana) – better in soil long-term.

Hydroculture Care

• Monthly: 2 drops liquid fertilizer (e.g., Schultz) per quart water.
• Change water monthly to prevent stagnation.
• Expect smaller leaves than soil-grown plants.
• Prune runners to maintain shape.

For most plants, soil provides better aeration, nutrient buffering, and stability.