10 Nostalgic Houseplants Grandma Grew (And We Still Adore)

These timeless houseplants prove that classics never go out of style.

Some things never lose their charm—vintage quilts, handwritten recipes, and yes… the houseplants our grandmas lovingly kept by sunny windows. While I love discovering trendy new plants, there’s something deeply comforting about the old-school varieties that filled our grandparents’ homes.

Maybe it’s nostalgia. Maybe it’s the memories of watching my grandma water her plants with a teacup. Or maybe it’s simply because these plants were built to last. Long before fancy grow lights and designer soil mixes, these houseplants had to survive with minimal fuss—and they still do.

They’re tough, forgiving, and perfectly happy in less-than-perfect conditions. Many tolerate low light, bounce back after missed waterings, and are incredibly easy to propagate. Honestly? Grandma knew best.

Here are the nostalgic houseplants she grew—and we’re still obsessed with today.

---

1. Spider Plant

With long, arching green or variegated leaves, the spider plant is a classic favorite. As it matures, it sends out adorable baby plants—often called spiderettes—that dangle from the mother plant like little ornaments.

Once those babies develop tiny root bumps, snip them off and plant them to grow brand-new spider plants. Easy, rewarding, and perfect for beginners.

Light: Medium to bright indirect
Water: Let the soil dry slightly between waterings
Pet-friendly: Yes

2. African Violet

Small but mighty, African violets bloom almost year-round when they’re happy. Their fuzzy leaves and ruffled flowers in shades of purple, pink, blue, and white make them feel extra special.

They prefer gentle care—no water on the leaves and no harsh sunlight. A self-watering pot or bottom watering works wonders.

Light: Bright, indirect
Water: Keep the soil lightly moist
Pet-friendly: Yes

3. Philodendron

Philodendrons are the definition of effortless beauty. These leafy plants tolerate low light, grow quickly, and forgive the occasional missed watering. No wonder they were a grandma favorite.

Older varieties, like the classic tree philodendron, can grow impressively large with almost no effort.

Light: Low to bright indirect
Water: When top soil feels dry
Pet-friendly: No

4. Pothos

Golden pothos is practically impossible to kill. Its glossy, heart-shaped leaves trail beautifully from shelves, tables, or hanging baskets.

It thrives in a wide range of light conditions and is incredibly easy to propagate—just snip a vine and root it in water.

Light: Bright indirect (tolerates low light)
Water: Let the soil dry slightly
Pet-friendly: No

5. Jade Plant

This charming succulent looks like a tiny tree and can live for decades. Jade plants grow slowly indoors and store water in their thick leaves, making them perfect for forgetful plant parents.

They’re happiest when left alone—just bright light and minimal watering.

Light: Bright, indirect
Water: Sparingly
Pet-friendly: No

6. Cast Iron Plant

True to its name, the cast iron plant is nearly indestructible. It thrives in dark corners, tolerates neglect, and still looks elegant with its deep green, glossy leaves.

If you’ve ever said, “I kill every plant,” this one is for you.

Light: Low to medium
Water: When the soil is mostly dry
Pet-friendly: Yes

7. Snake Plant

Bold, upright leaves make the snake plant a statement piece—even in low light. It’s been a household staple for generations thanks to its resilience and architectural beauty.

Overwatering is the only real mistake you can make here.

Light: Low to moderate
Water: When the soil dries out
Pet-friendly: No

8. Prayer Plant

Named for the way its leaves fold upward at night, the prayer plant feels almost magical. Its colorful patterns and gentle movement made it a sentimental favorite in many grandmothers’ homes.

It enjoys consistent moisture and soft, indirect light.

Light: Bright to moderate indirect
Water: Keep evenly moist
Pet-friendly: Yes

9. Christmas Cactus

Often passed down through generations, the Christmas cactus can live for decades. With proper care, it rewards you with stunning blooms during the holiday season.

A little darkness at night in early fall helps trigger flowering.

Light: Bright, indirect
Water: When the topsoil dries
Pet-friendly: Yes

10. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera wasn’t just decorative—it was grandma’s natural first-aid kit. The soothing gel inside its leaves is still used today for minor burns and skin irritation.

This plant loves sunshine and hates soggy soil.

Light: Bright, indirect
Water: Let the soil dry between waterings
Pet-friendly: No

Final Thoughts

These nostalgic houseplants have stood the test of time for a reason. They’re resilient, beautiful, and full of memories. Whether you’re a seasoned plant lover or just starting out, growing the same plants Grandma did feels like carrying a little piece of history forward—one leafy friend at a time 🌿