7 Houseplants You’ll Regret Growing

Last updated on October 1st, 2024

Decorating your home with houseplants can add a refreshing vibe, improve air quality, and even elevate your decor game. But, not all plants are created equal—some are high-maintenance divas that demand constant attention and care.

If you’re not ready to be a full-time plant parent, these tricky houseplants might make you wish you’d never brought them home. Before you find yourself in a leafy love affair gone wrong, let’s dive into the seven houseplants you might regret growing.

1. Bonsai Trees: The High-Maintenance Miniatures

Bonsai trees are undeniably beautiful, often showcased as living art pieces. But don’t let their charming looks fool you—they come with a hefty care routine. Maintaining their petite size requires regular root pruning, while their iconic shapes are achieved through meticulous crown cutting. If you’re new to the plant world, the learning curve can be overwhelming. Plus, since bonsai trees can be made from various species, one bonsai’s needs might drastically differ from another’s. This makes it challenging for beginners to keep them alive and thriving. Think twice before committing to these tiny divas unless you’re ready to dedicate serious time to their upkeep.

2. Caladium: The Diva That Demands Humidity

Caladiums are known for their colorful, heart-shaped leaves that can instantly brighten up any room. However, their beauty comes with a price. These plants require consistently warm temperatures and high humidity levels—conditions that can be difficult to maintain indoors, especially during colder months. The caladium also has a dormancy period, meaning it goes through a phase where it looks pretty much dead. This can be confusing and discouraging if you’re not familiar with its life cycle. Unless you’re a seasoned plant parent with a knack for keeping the environment just right, you might want to pass on this one.

3. Succulents: Not as Easy as They Look

Succulents are often advertised as the ultimate low-maintenance houseplant, perfect for beginners. But the truth is, they can be trickier than they appear. Succulents thrive on neglect—meaning they need very little water and can suffer from overwatering. If you’re someone who tends to over-care for your plants, succulents might not be the best match. These water-storing plants can rot quickly if watered too often, especially in a humid environment. For those who find themselves constantly hovering over their plants, consider opting for something more forgiving, like a tropical plant that loves a bit of extra attention.

4. Avocado Trees: The Dream That Rarely Comes True

Growing an avocado tree from a pit has become quite the trend. It’s fun, it’s rewarding—until it isn’t. While it might be relatively easy to sprout an avocado pit, taking care of the plant that grows from it is a whole different ball game. Avocado trees are subtropical and need specific conditions to thrive—bright light, humidity, and space, which are often hard to provide indoors. If you’re dreaming of harvesting your own avocados, be prepared for a long, challenging journey. The chances of an indoor avocado tree bearing fruit are slim to none, making it a frustrating endeavor for many plant enthusiasts.

5. Carnivorous Plants: Cool but Complicated

Carnivorous plants like Venus flytraps and pitcher plants seem like a fun and unique addition to your home. They can catch flies and other bugs, adding a touch of nature’s drama to your space. However, they are not as easy to care for as one might think. These plants need high humidity, bright light, and distilled water only—tap water can actually kill them. Moreover, they need a precise diet and environment to thrive. If you’re not prepared to mimic a mini rainforest in your home, these plants might not be the right fit for you.

6. Philodendrons: Pet Hazard in Disguise

Philodendrons are a favorite among houseplant enthusiasts due to their ease of care and beautiful, trailing leaves. However, if you have pets, you might want to reconsider bringing one into your home. Philodendrons are toxic to cats and dogs, and ingestion can lead to severe health issues. Other common houseplants, like sago palms and aloe, also pose a risk to pets. For pet owners, it’s crucial to choose non-toxic plants to keep their furry friends safe and healthy. If you’re looking for pet-friendly alternatives, consider plants like spider plants or Boston ferns.

7. Poinsettia: The Festive Fiasco

Poinsettias are synonymous with Christmas cheer, instantly adding a festive vibe to any home. But keeping them alive beyond the holiday season is no small feat. Getting a poinsettia to rebloom after its initial flowering period requires specific care—such as pruning, feeding, and ensuring twelve hours of darkness daily until buds form. For most, the effort to keep these plants alive and thriving is not worth the hassle. If you’re not up for the challenge, you might find yourself regretting your decision to bring this holiday staple into your home.

Conclusion: Choose Wisely, Plant Parent!

Houseplants can be a delightful addition to any home, but they can also bring unexpected challenges. Choosing the right plant for your lifestyle and environment is key to enjoying the benefits without the stress. If you’re a beginner or have limited time for plant care, consider opting for low-maintenance varieties that are less demanding. And remember, while these seven houseplants may be tricky, they aren’t impossible. With the right knowledge and dedication, you can make even the most challenging plants thrive. Happy planting!

For more tips and tricks on choosing and caring for houseplants, make sure to check out other posts on the Homebliss blog. Your journey to becoming a plant pro starts here!