Plant Ninja Sally Rates Popular Houseplants: Which Ones Are the Easiest to Care For?

If you've ever wandered through a plant shop wondering, "Is this plant actually easy to take care of?" you're not alone.

Plant Ninja Sally spends her days surrounded by houseplants, and she knows that some are much more forgiving than others. In one of her latest videos, she rated a handful of popular indoor plants on a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 being the hardest to care for and 10 being the easiest.

Whether you're brand new to houseplants or looking for your next leafy addition, here's how these popular plants stacked up.

Hoya Splash (8/10)

Sally is quick to admit she's a little obsessed with Hoyas—and for good reason.

"Hoyas are definitely becoming a huge trend right now," she says.

The Hoya Splash earns an impressive 8 out of 10 thanks to its relatively easy-going nature. As a climbing plant, it sends out long tendrils that love wrapping around trellises, poles, or just about anything nearby, making it both beautiful and fun to watch grow.

If you're looking for an easy houseplant with unique foliage and a trailing or climbing habit, Sally highly recommends exploring the entire Hoya family.

Syngonium (6/10)

Next up are two beautiful varieties of Syngonium: the Strawberry Syngonium and the classic White Butterfly.

While Sally loves their incredible colors and attractive foliage, she gives them a more cautious 6 out of 10.

Why?

"They're super prone to aphids and spider mites."

If you're comfortable keeping an eye out for common plant pests, Syngoniums can be rewarding plants to grow. Their colorful leaves and fast growth make them favorites for many collectors, but they may require a little more attention than beginners expect.

Parlor Palm (6–7/10)

Looking for a pet-friendly houseplant?

The Parlor Palm is one of Sally's recommendations.

She gives it a 6 to 7 out of 10, noting that it's generally easy to care for with one important tip:

Bottom watering is the way to go.

Another major benefit? Parlor Palms are considered pet safe, making them a popular choice for homes with curious cats and dogs.

Their soft, feathery fronds also bring a tropical feel to almost any room without demanding a lot of complicated care.

Calathea 'Rattlesnake' (4/10)

Last—but definitely not least—is one of the most beautiful plants on the list.

The Rattlesnake Calathea earns just a 4 out of 10 for ease of care.

While its striking patterned leaves make it hard to resist, Sally doesn't hide her opinion.

"These are not my favorite."

Her biggest concern is that once a Calathea begins to struggle, it can be difficult to turn things around.

"Once one of them starts to go, it's kind of over. So good luck."

For experienced plant lovers, the challenge may be worth it. But if you're just starting your indoor plant journey, you may want to build your confidence with easier varieties first.

Which Houseplant Is Right for You?

Every plant owner has different goals. Some people love a challenge, while others simply want beautiful greenery that fits into a busy lifestyle.

Based on Sally's ratings:

• Hoya Splash (8/10): Great for beginners looking for an easy, trendy climbing plant.

• Parlor Palm (6–7/10): A solid choice for pet owners and anyone who loves a tropical look.

• Syngonium (6/10): Beautiful foliage, but keep an eye out for common pests.

• Rattlesnake Calathea (4/10): Gorgeous, but better suited for plant lovers who enjoy a little extra challenge.

Healthy Plants Start with Healthy Leaves

No matter which houseplant you choose, healthy foliage plays an important role in keeping your plants looking their best.

For smooth-leaf tropical houseplants like Hoyas, Syngoniums, and Parlor Palms, regular leaf care can help keep them looking vibrant and photo-ready. Plant Ninja's Ultimate Plant & Leaf Spray is designed to help maintain a natural, streak-free shine while making routine plant care quick and enjoyable.

Watch Sally Rate These Plants

Want to hear Sally's ratings straight from the source?

Watch the video below to see each plant up close and hear her quick, honest thoughts on what makes them easy—or surprisingly challenging—to care for.

Whether you're filling your first shelf with houseplants or adding to an already-growing jungle, choosing plants that match your experience level can make all the difference. Start with forgiving favorites, learn what works in your home, and don't be afraid to branch out as your confidence grows. Happy planting!

 

FAQs

Are Hoya plants easy to care for?

Yes! Hoya plants are considered some of the easiest houseplants to grow. Plant Ninja Sally gives the Hoya Splash an 8 out of 10 for ease of care, making it a great choice for beginners and anyone looking for a low-maintenance indoor plant.

Are Syngonium plants good for beginners?

Syngoniums are relatively easy to grow, but they can be susceptible to common houseplant pests like aphids and spider mites. Sally rates them a 6 out of 10, making them a good option for plant owners who don't mind checking their plants regularly.

Is a Parlor Palm pet friendly?

Yes! Parlor Palms are considered pet safe for both cats and dogs. Sally also recommends bottom watering to help keep them healthy and gives them a 6–7 out of 10 for overall ease of care.

Why are Calatheas considered difficult to care for?

Calatheas are known for their beautiful patterned foliage, but they can be more demanding than many other houseplants. Sally rates the Rattlesnake Calathea a 4 out of 10 because once it starts struggling, it can be difficult to bring it back to good health.

What is the easiest houseplant for beginners?

There isn't one perfect beginner plant, but Hoyas, Snake Plants, ZZ Plants, and Cast Iron Plants are all excellent choices. In Sally's rankings, the Hoya Splash was the easiest plant featured in this video.

Should I choose a houseplant based on its care level?

Absolutely! Choosing a plant that matches your experience level and your home's environment can make plant care much more enjoyable. Starting with easy-care houseplants helps build confidence before moving on to more challenging varieties like Calatheas.

How do I keep my houseplant leaves healthy?

Healthy leaves are essential for healthy plants. Water your plants appropriately, provide the right amount of light, and keep smooth leaves free of dust so they can photosynthesize efficiently. Regular leaf care also helps your plants look vibrant and beautiful.