Top 15 Houseplants That Thrive When Propagated in Water

Have you ever thought about how fascinating it is to grow a whole new plant from just a small cutting?

Propagating houseplants in water is not only rewarding but also an easy and inexpensive way to multiply your greenery. It’s perfect for beginners and seasoned plant enthusiasts alike.

With just a jar of water, some well-chosen plants, and a little care, you can create a vibrant, lush display for your home. Here are 15 fantastic houseplants that not only thrive in water but also make your propagation journey enjoyable and fulfilling.

#1. Monstera

Monstera, with its stunning split leaves, is a statement piece in any home. To propagate, cut a stem with a node and place it in water.

It may take a few weeks for roots to appear, but the wait is worth it. Monstera prefers bright, indirect light and adds a tropical vibe to any space.

#2. ZZ Plant

The ZZ plant is known for its glossy leaves and incredible resilience. While slow-growing, its stems can propagate in water with some patience.

It’s ideal for low-light areas and requires minimal maintenance, making it perfect for busy plant lovers.

#3. Rosemary

Rosemary may take a little longer to root, but it’s worth the wait. Place softwood cuttings in water and keep them in bright light.

Once rooted, you’ll have a fragrant herb for cooking or crafting homemade sachets.

#4. Basil

Basil is another culinary herb that thrives in water. Snip a stem and place it in a jar of water on your windowsill.

In a matter of days, roots will appear, and you’ll have a steady supply of fresh basil for your recipes.

#5. Coleus

Coleus is prized for its brightly colored leaves, ranging from green to deep purple. It’s one of the fastest plants to root in water.

Cut a stem with a node, place it in water, and you’ll have a new plant in days. Its rapid growth and vibrant colors make it a favorite.

#6. Mint

Mint isn’t just a kitchen staple, it’s also a breeze to propagate in water. Snip a stem and place it in a glass of water near a sunny window.

Roots will appear in days, and you’ll have fresh mint for tea, cocktails, or cooking all year long.

#7. Arrowhead Plant

Arrowhead plants are loved for their arrow-shaped leaves and climbing growth habit. Take a cutting with a node, place it in water, and give it bright, indirect light.

These plants grow quickly and are perfect for adding greenery to desks or shelves.

#8. Sweet Potato Vine

Sweet potato vines are not just for the garden. You can grow them indoors by placing a sweet potato tuber or vine cutting in water.

In just a few weeks, you’ll have lush, cascading foliage. It’s a great conversation starter and a fun project for kids.

#9. Wandering Jew

This colorful plant, with its purple and green striped leaves, is incredibly easy to propagate.

Simply cut a piece of the vine with a node and place it in water. It roots quickly and adds a vibrant pop of color to any room. Keep it in bright, indirect light for best results.

#10. Peace Lily

Although typically grown in soil, peace lilies can be propagated in water. Separate a section of the plant with roots, place it in water, and it will flourish.

Peace lilies are known for their elegant white flowers and ability to filter toxins from the air, making them both decorative and functional.

#11. English Ivy

English ivy, with its cascading vines and small, glossy leaves, is a joy to propagate. Take a cutting with multiple nodes, place it in water, and watch roots emerge within a week.

It thrives in bright, indirect light and makes a lovely addition to hanging baskets or shelves.

#12. Lucky Bamboo

Lucky bamboo thrives in water and adds a zen-like quality to any room. Place the stalks in filtered water with some pebbles for support.

Keep it away from direct sunlight, and it will grow beautifully. This plant is also believed to bring good luck and positive energy.

#13. Philodendron

Philodendrons are another propagation superstar. Their trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves make them visually stunning.

Take a cutting with one or two nodes, submerge it in water, and place it in bright, indirect light. You’ll have a new plant in no time. Plus, philodendrons are excellent air purifiers.

#14. Spider Plant

The spider plant is famous for its arching green leaves and its “babies,” which dangle off the mother plant. These plantlets are incredibly easy to propagate. Snip them off and place them in water, ensuring the base is submerged.

In just a few days, roots will sprout. Spider plants also improve air quality and thrive in indirect light.

#15. Pothos

Pothos is the ultimate beginner-friendly plant, loved for its heart-shaped leaves and trailing vines. It’s incredibly easy to propagate in water. Simply snip a stem just below a node (the small bump where roots emerge), place it in a jar of water, and watch roots develop within a week.

Pothos is low-maintenance, tolerates low light, and purifies the air, making it a must-have for any home.