Capturing the joy of tending to a cherished plant for decades, and imagining the delight it could bring to future generations, is a truly rewarding experience. Here are nine enduring houseplants that have the potential to become cherished family heirlooms, provided they are given the care and attention they require.
Cast Iron Plant
Known for their resilience, cast iron plants are perfect for beginners as they thrive in low-light conditions and can withstand irregular watering. Some have been known to survive for over a century in family homes.
Botanical Name: Aspidistra elatior
Size: 2–3 ft. tall, 1–2 ft. wide
Light: Partial shade, shade
Water: Allow soil to dry between waterings
Lifespan: 50 to 100 years
Boston Ferns
Boston ferns, with their delicate foliage, can live for over 50 years if provided with proper humidity levels and consistent watering.
Botanical Name: Nephrolepis exaltata
Size: 2-3 ft. tall and wide
Light: Partial shade
Water: Keep soil consistently moist
Lifespan: 50+ years
Christmas Cactus
To enjoy the festive blooms of the Christmas cactus for many seasons, ensure they are not overwatered, receive indirect light, and are slightly rootbound. Some Christmas cacti have been known to thrive for over a century.
Botanical Name: Schlumbergera x buckleyi
Size: 6–12 in. tall, 12–24 in. wide
Light: Partial shade
Water: Allow soil to dry between waterings
Lifespan: 50 to 100+ years
Jade Plants
With their drought-tolerant nature, the slow-growing jade plant is ideal for apartment living, adding a unique texture with its thick, oval leaves.
Botanical Name: Crassula ovata
Size: 3–6 ft. tall, 2–3 ft. wide
Light: Full sun
Water: Allow soil to dry between waterings
Lifespan: 50 to 100+ years
Sago Palms
The sago palm, not a true palm tree, can be passed down through generations if given the right conditions. While not as long-lived as some other plants, there are exceptional cases of cycads living for centuries.
Botanical Name: Cycas revoluta
Size: 3–10 ft. tall and wide
Light: Full sun, partial shade
Water: Water when soil feels dry
Lifespan: 100 to 200 years
Rubber Plant
Known for their longevity and low maintenance, rubber plants make a statement with their glossy leaves and tall growth habit.
Botanical Name: Ficus elastica
Size: Up to 6 ft. tall
Light: Partial shade
Water: Keep soil consistently moist
Lifespan: Up to 30 years
Pony
With its striking appearance and strappy green leaves, the Beaucarnea recurvata plant can make a lasting impression in the right home for many decades.
Botanical Name: Beaucarnea recurvata
Mature Size: 6-8 ft. tall, 3-5 ft. spread; 30 feet tall outdoors
Light: Full sun
Water: Allow the soil to dry between waterings
Lifespan: 50 to 100 years
Hoyas are known for their fragrant, star-shaped blooms that can delight a home for 30 years or more if placed in a sunny yet not overly sunny location.
Botanical Name: Hoya carnosa
Mature Size: 12-20 ft.
Light: Partial shade
Water: Allow the soil to dry between waterings
Lifespan: 30 to 50 years
The Monstera deliciosa, with its large, fenestrated leaves, has been thriving in Longwood Gardens for over a century, showcasing its impressive longevity as a houseplant option.
Botanical Name: Monstera deliciosa
Mature Size: 3-15 ft. tall, 3-8 ft. wide
Light: Partial shade
Water: Water deeply when the top of the soil feels dry to the touch
Lifespan: 50 to 100 years
For more information, refer to the original article on The Spruce.
