15 Best Indoor Plants for Zone 8B

Picture yourself surrounded by lush greenery that transforms your home into a vibrant indoor oasis, even in Zone 8B’s varying climate. You’ll find that selecting the right indoor plants can make all the difference between a thriving collection and constant plant care struggles. While Snake Plants and Chinese Evergreens are popular choices, there’s a diverse array of lesser-known varieties that might suit your space perfectly, each bringing its own unique characteristics and care requirements.

1. Snake Plant

The Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) is a striking indoor plant known for its tall, rigid, sword-like leaves that grow in an upright pattern. These architectural plants feature dark green leaves with light gray-green horizontal stripes, though some varieties showcase yellow edges. Snake Plants are exceptionally hardy and are considered one of the most tolerant houseplants, famous for their air-purifying abilities and capacity to survive in less-than-ideal conditions. They’re also known as Mother-in-Law’s Tongue and are perfect for beginners due to their forgiving nature.

• Light: Tolerates low light but thrives in indirect bright light; can handle some direct sunlight
• Water: Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; water less in winter; highly drought-tolerant
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix; prefers slightly sandy soils
• Temperature: Ideal range 70-90°F (21-32°C); tolerates down to 50°F (10°C)
• Humidity: Adaptable to most indoor humidity levels; prefers average home humidity
• Fertilizer: Light feeding with balanced fertilizer during growing season
• Container: Pots with drainage holes to prevent root rot
• Propagation: Division of rhizomes or leaf cuttings

2. Resilient Chinese Evergreen Plant

Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) is a highly adaptable and forgiving indoor plant that thrives in zone 8B conditions. Its striking foliage features patterns of silver, green, and sometimes pink or red, making it an attractive addition to indoor spaces. Known for its air-purifying qualities and low-maintenance nature, this tropical plant can survive in less-than-ideal conditions and bounces back well from neglect, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced plant owners.

• Light: Tolerates low to moderate indirect light; avoid direct sunlight which can burn leaves; thrives in artificial lighting
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when top 1-2 inches of soil feels dry; reduce watering in winter
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter; prefers slightly acidic pH between 5.6-6.5
• Humidity: Enjoys moderate to high humidity (50-60%); mist leaves regularly in dry conditions
• Temperature: Prefers warm environments between 65-80°F (18-27°C); protect from cold drafts
• Fertilizer: Feed with balanced liquid fertilizer every 6-8 weeks during growing season

3. Lush Fiddle Leaf Fig

The Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata) is a stunning indoor plant known for its large, violin-shaped leaves and impressive height potential, reaching up to 10 feet indoors. This tropical plant has become a popular statement piece in modern interior design, featuring glossy, dark green leaves that can grow up to 18 inches long. While it has a reputation for being somewhat finicky, with proper care and consistent conditions, it can thrive as a houseplant and add a dramatic, lush element to any room.

• Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; avoid direct afternoon sun; can tolerate some direct morning sun
• Water: Allow top 1-2 inches of soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering in winter
• Soil: Well-draining, rich potting mix with good aeration
• Humidity: High humidity (60-70%); benefits from regular misting or a humidifier
• Temperature: 65-75°F (18-24°C); avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature changes
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced, water-soluble fertilizer
• Container: Plant in pot with drainage holes; repot every 2-3 years
• Pruning: Prune in spring to control height and encourage branching

4. Graceful Peace Lily

The Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) is a striking tropical plant known for its glossy dark green leaves and distinctive white flower-like spathes that bloom throughout the year. This popular houseplant not only adds elegance to indoor spaces but also helps purify air by removing common household toxins. Growing between 1-4 feet tall, peace lilies are relatively easy to maintain and can thrive in most indoor environments, making them an excellent choice for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts.

• Light: Bright, indirect light; tolerates low light conditions but may not flower as profusely; avoid direct sunlight
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when top inch of soil feels dry; sensitive to chlorinated water
• Soil: Well-draining, rich potting mix with good organic content
• Humidity: Prefers high humidity; mist leaves regularly or use a humidity tray
• Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C); protect from cold drafts
• Fertilizer: Feed with balanced liquid fertilizer every 6-8 weeks during growing season
• Pot Requirements: Container with drainage holes; repot every 1-2 years
• Soil pH: 5.8-6.5

5. Colorful Pothos

Pothos plants offer vibrant indoor color options through their varied cultivars, including the golden yellow-streaked Epipremnum aureum, the stark white-variegated Snow Queen, and the rich green-and-white Marble Queen. These trailing vines can grow several feet long and display heart-shaped leaves with distinctive patterns that brighten any indoor space. While the standard green pothos is common, the colorful varieties add striking visual interest as hanging plants or climbing vines, making them popular choices for zone 8b indoor environments.

• Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; can tolerate low light but may lose variegation
• Water: Allow top 1-2 inches of soil to dry between waterings; water less in winter
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix with good aeration
• Humidity: Adaptable to normal indoor humidity levels
• Temperature: 60-80°F (15-27°C)
• Fertilizer: Monthly feeding with balanced liquid fertilizer during growing season
• Container: Any container with drainage holes
• Growth: Moderate to fast growth rate; trim as needed to maintain desired size

6. Striking Spider Plant

The Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) is a popular indoor plant known for its graceful, arching leaves and long stems bearing baby plantlets, giving it a distinctive spider-like appearance. Its variegated cultivars feature cream or white stripes running lengthwise along the leaves, creating an eye-catching display. This adaptable plant is excellent for hanging baskets or elevated pots where its cascading growth habit can be fully appreciated, and its air-purifying qualities make it an excellent choice for indoor spaces.

• Light: Thrives in bright, indirect light but tolerates moderate light; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; allow top inch of soil to dry between waterings
• Soil: Well-draining, general-purpose potting mix
• Humidity: Tolerates average indoor humidity levels but prefers higher humidity
• Temperature: Comfortable in normal room temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C)
• Fertilizer: Feed with balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during growing season
• Container: Use pots with drainage holes; plastic or glazed ceramic works well

7. Sturdy Cast Iron Plant

The Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior) lives up to its name with exceptional durability and resilience, making it one of the toughest indoor plants available. This slow-growing evergreen features long, dark green leaves that can reach up to 2 feet in length, creating an attractive vertical accent in any indoor space. Native to Japan and Taiwan, it earned its common name from its ability to withstand neglect, poor conditions, and varying temperatures, making it an excellent choice for beginners or areas where other plants struggle to survive.

• Light: Thrives in low to moderate indirect light; can tolerate deep shade; avoid direct sunlight
• Water: Water sparingly; allow soil to dry between waterings; tolerates occasional drought
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix with organic matter
• Temperature: Comfortable in normal room temperatures between 60-75°F
• Humidity: Adapts to average indoor humidity levels
• Fertilizer: Feed lightly with balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months during growing season
• Soil pH: 5.5-6.5
• Repotting: Every 3-4 years or when root-bound

8. Vibrant Rubber Plant

The Vibrant Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica) is a striking indoor plant known for its thick, glossy leaves in deep green, burgundy, or variegated patterns. This popular houseplant can grow quite tall indoors, reaching heights of 6-10 feet when well-maintained. Its broad, oval-shaped leaves have a distinctive waxy appearance and prominent veining, making it an eye-catching addition to any indoor space. The rubber plant’s natural resilience and air-purifying qualities have made it a longtime favorite among indoor gardeners.

• Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon light
• Water: Allow top 1-2 inches of soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering in winter
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter
• Humidity: Moderate to high; benefits from regular misting
• Temperature: 60-80°F (15-27°C)
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
• Pot: Use container with drainage holes; repot every 2-3 years
• Soil pH: 5.5-7.0

9. Resilient ZZ Plant

The ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is one of the most resilient indoor plants available, making it perfect for zone 8B environments. This sturdy tropical perennial features thick, waxy leaves arranged on upright stems, creating an elegant architectural appearance. Known for its exceptional tolerance to low-light conditions and irregular watering, the ZZ Plant has become increasingly popular among both novice and experienced indoor gardeners for its near-indestructible nature and air-purifying qualities.

• Light: Tolerates low to bright indirect light; avoid direct sunlight
• Water: Allow soil to dry between waterings; water every 2-3 weeks
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix
• Humidity: Adaptable to average indoor humidity levels
• Temperature: 65-75°F (18-24°C)
• Fertilizer: Light feeding every 6 months during growing season
• Pot: Container with drainage holes
• Soil pH: 6.0-7.0

10. Resilient Boston Fern

The Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) is a hardy indoor plant that thrives in zone 8B conditions. Known for its graceful arching fronds and dense, feathery foliage, this resilient fern can grow up to 3 feet tall and wide when properly maintained. Its ability to adapt to indoor environments and natural air-purifying qualities make it a popular choice for hanging baskets or elevated containers, adding a lush, tropical feel to any indoor space.

• Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; avoid direct sun exposure which can scorch leaves
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; mist regularly to maintain humidity
• Soil: Well-draining, rich potting mix with high organic content
• Temperature: 60-75°F (16-24°C)
• Humidity: High humidity levels (50% or higher)
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
• Container: Use pots with adequate drainage holes
• Pruning: Remove yellow or brown fronds at base to maintain appearance

11. Decorative Dracaena Plant

Dracaena plants are striking indoor specimens known for their dramatic sword-like foliage and distinctive growth patterns. These tropical plants come in various species with different leaf colors and patterns, ranging from deep green to variegated stripes of white, yellow, or red. In zone 8B’s indoor environments, Dracaena plants serve as excellent air-purifying additions while adding architectural interest to rooms with their upright form and cascading leaves.

• Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; can tolerate moderate shade but may lose variegation
• Water: Allow top inch of soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering in winter
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix with peat moss and perlite
• Humidity: Moderate to high; mist leaves regularly or use a humidity tray
• Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
• Container: Pot with drainage holes; repot every 2-3 years
• Soil pH: 6.0-7.0

12. Adaptable Parlor Palm

The Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans) is a compact, elegant palm species that thrives as an indoor plant in Zone 8B. Originally from the rainforests of Mexico and Guatemala, this adaptable plant has been a popular houseplant since Victorian times due to its graceful appearance and ability to tolerate indoor conditions. Growing to heights between 2-6 feet indoors, it features delicate, feathery fronds that arch outward from slender stems, creating a gentle, tropical ambiance in any room.

• Light: Bright, indirect light; tolerates low light conditions but grows best with moderate light; avoid direct sunlight
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when top inch of soil feels dry
• Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity; benefits from regular misting
• Temperature: Ideal range 65-80°F (18-27°C); can tolerate brief periods outside this range
• Soil: Well-draining, rich potting mix with good organic content
• Fertilizer: Feed with balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-3 months during growing season
• Container: Use pots with drainage holes; prefers to be slightly pot-bound

13. Fragrant African Violet

African Violets (Saintpaulia) are delightful indoor plants that produce clusters of velvety, deep purple, pink, or white flowers above fuzzy, dark green leaves. These compact plants are beloved not only for their continuous blooming habit but also for their subtle, sweet fragrance that becomes more noticeable in the evening hours or when the leaves are gently touched.

• Light: Bright, indirect light; avoid direct sunlight; east or north-facing windows are ideal
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not wet; water from bottom to avoid leaf damage
• Soil: Well-draining, loose African violet potting mix
• Temperature: 65-75°F (18-24°C)
• Humidity: 40-60%; use humidity trays if needed
• Fertilizer: Balance liquid fertilizer specifically for African violets every 4-6 weeks
• Container: Small pots with drainage holes; prefer to be slightly root-bound
• pH: 6.0-6.5

14. Petite Purple Philodendron

The Petite Purple Philodendron is a compact variety of philodendron known for its deep purple to burgundy foliage and manageable size, making it perfect for indoor spaces. Its heart-shaped leaves emerge with a rich purple hue before maturing to a darker shade, creating an eye-catching display. This tropical plant typically reaches heights of 12-18 inches, maintaining a bushy growth habit that works well in hanging baskets or as a tabletop accent.

• Light: Bright, indirect light; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when top 1-2 inches of soil feels dry
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter
• Humidity: Prefers high humidity levels (60-70%)
• Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C)
• Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
• Container: Use pot with drainage holes and well-aerated growing medium
• Pruning: Remove yellowing or damaged leaves to maintain appearance

15. Vibrant Trailing String-of-Pearls

String-of-pearls (Senecio rowleyanus) is a fascinating trailing succulent that creates a dramatic cascade of bead-like leaves resembling small green pearls strung together. This unique indoor plant can grow several feet long when properly maintained, making it perfect for hanging baskets or elevated containers where its delicate strands can gracefully dangle. Native to South Africa, string-of-pearls adapts well to indoor environments and can occasionally produce small white flowers with a cinnamon-like fragrance.

• Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; can tolerate some direct morning sun but protect from harsh afternoon light
• Water: Allow soil to dry between waterings; reduce watering in winter; susceptible to root rot if overwatered
• Soil: Well-draining succulent or cactus mix
• Temperature: 70-80°F (21-27°C); can tolerate down to 50°F (10°C)
• Humidity: Average indoor humidity levels (40-50%)
• Container: Shallow pot with drainage holes
• Fertilizer: Light feeding with balanced fertilizer during growing season
• Propagation: Easy to propagate through stem cuttings