30 Best Plants To Grow In Small Pots & Containers

Container gardening is a great way to completely transform an area with limited space, such as a small apartment, balcony, or front porch. But in order to create a lush miniature garden, you need to choose the perfect plants. In this guide, I’ll show you 30 of the best plants for small pots. I’ll also share essential care tips and recommendations to ensure your mini garden thrives.

three small ceramic pots with plants on a white table, blue backgroundYayImages

The Best Plants For Small Pots

Let’s jump right into the best plants for small pots, and how to take care of them:

1. Painted-leaf Begonia (Begonia Rex)

Painted-leaf begonia, Begonia rex plant in small silver potYayImages

These eye-catching plants, perfect for small pots or larger container gardens, are known for their vibrant foliage, ranging from deep reds to silvers.

Thriving in well-drained soil and bright, indirect light, they require regular watering to maintain moist soil, without letting water accumulate at the bottom.

Their stunning colors are best preserved away from direct sunlight, making them a perfect plant for indoor settings with limited space.

2. Peperomia (Peperomia Obtusifolia)

Peperomia plant and succulent plant on a shelfYayImages

A versatile, decorative plant, Peperomia is ideal for small pots and thrives in moist, well-drained soil.

Its robust nature, coupled with a preference for medium to bright light, makes it a favorite among container plants.

These plants are sensitive to overwatering, so ensure your pots have adequate drainage holes.

3. Nerve Plant (Fittonia)

Houseplant fittonia with red leaves in a small white potYayImages

Known for its striking vein patterns, the Nerve Plant is a great way to add visual interest to small spaces.

They thrive in high humidity and bright, indirect light. Ensure the soil stays consistently moist but not waterlogged.

They are ideal for terracotta pots that allow the soil to breathe.

4. Moth Orchid (Phalaenopsis)

Pink orchid flowers Orchidaceae Phalaenopsis known as the Moth OrchidYayImages

Moth Orchids are elegant and graceful, making them a favorite for small indoor plant stands.

They prefer moist soil and thrive in indirect sunlight, making them suitable for indoor container gardening.

Regular watering, without allowing excess water to sit at the roots, is crucial for their health.

5. Flamingo Flower (Anthurium)

anthurium in small yellow pot on white backgroundYayImages

Anthuriums, with their vibrant flowers and glossy leaves, are a stunning addition to small pots in areas with indirect light.

Regular watering to keep the soil moist, combined with high humidity, makes them thrive.

They’re a great way to add a pop of color to a small living space or a balcony garden.

6. African Violets (Saintpaulia)

Violets flowers close upYayImages

Compact and charming, African Violets are ideal for small spaces, thriving in well-drained soil and bright, indirect light.

Their delicate tiny white flowers add a subtle beauty, making them favorite small indoor plants.

To prevent root rot, ensure your flower pots have good drainage.

7. Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis)

aloe vera plant in small red pot.YayImages

Aloe Vera plants, known for their medicinal properties, are an excellent choice for small pots in sunny spots.

They require minimal water, thriving in dry conditions with good drainage.

These low-maintenance plants are perfect for busy gardeners or those new to container gardening.

8. Baby Toes (Fenestraria Rhopalophylla)

Fenestraria Rhopalophylla baby toe succulents holding in a handYayImages

These unique, toe-like succulents are perfect for small terra cotta or plastic pots.

They prefer dry soil and full sun, making them a low-maintenance choice for busy gardeners.

Their unique appearance adds an interesting element to any small space garden.

9. Jade Plant (Crassula Ovata)

crassula ovata or jade plant in flowerpotYayImages

A popular choice for both small and larger pots, Jade Plants need little water and thrive in full sun to partial shade.

Their spiky leaves add an interesting texture to your plant collection.

They are also known for their air-purifying qualities, making them a healthy addition to your living space.

10. String of Pearls (Senecio Rowleyanus)

String of pearls Succulent plant on wooden backgroundYayImages

Ideal for hanging planters in small spaces, these succulents with bead-like leaves create a stunning visual effect.

They prefer bright light and well-drained soil, making them perfect for sunny spots or well-lit indoor areas.

11. Chinese Money Plant (Pilea Peperomioides)

Pilea peperomioides or Money plant in a white ceramic pot on grey stone backgroundYayImages

The Chinese Money Plant, with its distinctive round leaves, is a low-maintenance plant that grows well in indirect light.

Ideal for small pots on plant stands or shelves, it adds a modern touch to any interior.

12. ZZ Plant

Zamioculcas plant in the clay pot on black stool. White low cabinets with plaster head and photo frame. Air purifier on the floor. Scandinavian styleYayImages

For those looking for an easy-care plant for their small space, the ZZ Plant is a top choice.

It thrives in low light conditions and requires minimal watering, making it an ideal plant for areas with indirect light.

13. Coffee Plant

Coffee bean, coffee cherries or coffee berries on Arabica coffee plantYayImages

Not only do Coffee Plants produce beautiful leaves, but they also thrive in indoor settings.

They prefer indirect light and regular watering, making them suitable for small pots in areas that receive filtered sunlight.

14. Red Aglaonema

Aglaonema houseplant(Chinese Evergreen) in modern black   container and elephants statue  on white wood table wall background with long shadowYayImages

This plant’s striking red-pink foliage makes it a visually appealing choice for small containers.

It enjoys partial shade and moist soil, adding a vibrant touch to any space, be it a small apartment or a courtyard garden.

15. Rubber Plant

large green ficus in a pot on the floor.YayImages

Rubber Plants are adaptable to various light conditions, from full sun to partial shade.

They are perfect for small pots in urban apartments, adding a touch of greenery to your living space.

Ensure the pot has good drainage to prevent root rot.

16. Sedum Morganianum (Burro’s Tail)

Potted Sedum Morganianum succulent plant on the wallYayImages

Sedum Morganianum, commonly known as Burro’s Tail, is a delightful choice for sunny balconies or windowsills.

With its cascading tendrils of fleshy, teardrop-shaped leaves, it makes a visually striking addition to any small pot.

These succulents thrive in well-drained soil and full sun, making them perfect for small outdoor containers or as an accent in larger mixed plantings.

17. Kalanchoe

kalanchoe natural potted plant isolated in white backgroundYayImages

A tropical succulent with year-round blooms, Kalanchoe is perfect for small pots.

It thrives in bright light and needs little water, making it a great choice for busy gardeners or those looking for easy-care plants.

18. Shamrock Plant

Purple shamrock plant high angle viewYayImages

Known for its fascinating day-night leaf movement, the Shamrock Plant is an excellent choice for container gardening.

It prefers bright, indirect light and moist soil, making it suitable for small pots in areas with partial sunlight.

19. Polka Dot Plant

Polka dot plant in bloom with purple flowersYayImages

This plant, with its colorful foliage, is a wonderful addition to small pots in areas with high humidity.

It thrives in indirect light and requires consistent moisture, making it a charming choice for adding color to a small space.

20. Dracena

close-up of dracaena leaves on a white background of a windowsill in a house or office, indoor tropical plant.YayImages

An easy-going plant that tolerates various light levels, Dracena is ideal for small pots.

It adds a vertical element to your container garden, thriving in both indoor and outdoor settings.

21. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum Comosum)

Spider plant in a blue and white potSusan Wilkinson / Unsplash

The Spider Plant is an excellent addition to your collection of small pot plants, especially for those seeking an easy-to-care-for and fast-growing variety.

Known for its slender, arching leaves and the tiny plantlets that dangle from its stems, it brings a playful and lush feel to any space.

Spider Plants thrive in well-drained soil and prefer bright, indirect light, although they are adaptable to a range of light conditions.

22. Haworthia

Haworthia succulent plant in a potYayImages

Compact and striking, Haworthia is perfect for small pots and indoor spaces.

This succulent thrives in well-drained soil and bright, indirect light, requiring minimal watering. Its unique, striped leaves add a decorative touch to any setting.

23. Echeveria

Small succulent Echeveria Apusin a pot and wrapped in burlap on a pink pastel background.YayImages

This rosette-forming succulent adds color and texture to small pots.

Echeveria prefers full sun and well-drained soil, making it an ideal choice for sunny windowsills or outdoor containers in sunny spots.

24. Prayer Plant (Maranta Leuconeura)

Maranta leuconeura, prayer plant in wooden potYayImages

The Prayer Plant, with its striking leaf patterns and colors, is an excellent choice for small pots.

It thrives in well-drained soil, prefers moderate to low light conditions, and enjoys high humidity.

The plant’s leaves fold up in the evening, resembling hands in prayer, adding dynamic interest to your indoor space.

Regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist and misting to maintain humidity will keep this plant flourishing.

25. Satin Pothos

Scindapsus pictus plant in flower pot on wooden tableYayImages

An easygoing, trailing houseplant, Satin Pothos is perfect for small pots in spaces with indirect light.

It’s a great choice for adding a cascading element to your indoor garden or as a part of a larger container garden.

26. Philodendron Brasil

Variegated heart shape leaf philodendron closeupYayImages

Known for its stunning foliage, this plant is easy to care for and propagate.

It’s a great addition to small pots in spaces with indirect light, perfect for adding a touch of tropical beauty to your indoor garden.

27. Herbs

Variety of potted herb plants for sale at a local country market stallYayImages

Herbs such as Basil, Parsley, Thyme, and Mint are fantastic choices for small pots, especially if you’re interested in adding fresh flavors to your kitchen.

These versatile and aromatic plants generally require similar conditions: well-drained soil, regular watering, and access to sufficient light, making them perfect for container gardening in small spaces.

28. Calathea (Peacock Plant)

The Peacock plant, also known as Calathea ornata with contrasting green and purplish-red leavesYayImages

Calathea, also known as the peacock plant, is a stunning choice for small pots, renowned for its beautifully patterned and colorful leaves.

This plant thrives in well-drained, moist soil and prefers low to medium light, away from direct sunlight.

High humidity and regular watering, keeping the soil consistently moist but not soggy, are key to maintaining its vibrant foliage.

29. Chilli Plant

Decorative red chili peppers growing in a potYayImages

Ideal for adding spice to your indoor garden, Chilli Plants thrive in small pots with well-drained soil and full sun.

Regular watering and bright light are key to producing a bountiful crop of spicy chilies.

30. Chives

Chives plants in front of white backgroundYayImages

Easy to grow and great for adding flavor to dishes, Chives are perfect for small container gardens.

They prefer well-drained soil and partial sunlight, making them a great choice for small pots in areas with partial shade.

Row of succulents in ceramic pots against a white wall background.YayImages

Conclusion

Adding plants in small pots to your apartment or patio will not only transform your space but also bring the joy of gardening into your home, regardless of its size.

With the right care, these plants will flourish, adding life and color to your small space.

Remember, choosing the right plants for your environment and giving them the care they need are the most important factors for healthy plants.

Now go ahead and create your own miniature garden today!

best plants for small pots and front porch containers.
Scroll to Top